During the first term of the 2024/2025 Academic Year, Cari-Bois partnered with the Scotiabank Foundation to empower ten (10) students with climate journalism skills as part of the second edition of Cari-Bois’ Youth Journalism Project. For their first assignment, students had the opportunity to research the effects of climate change on either Trinidad and Tobago or the Caribbean and write a story. This story was written by Dinnely Gardiner of Roxborough Secondary School.
The Caribbean region, known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures, and rich biodiversity, faces significant challenges due to climate change.
As global temperatures rise, the Caribbean is experiencing a range of environmental, social, and economic impacts that threaten its ecosystems and the livelihoods of its people.
Rising Sea Levels
One of the most pressing threats posed by climate change is rising sea levels. The Caribbean’s low-lying islands are particularly vulnerable, with many areas only a few feet above sea level.
According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), sea levels could rise by up to a meter by the end of the century.
This encroachment threatens coastal communities, infrastructure, and freshwater resources. Saltwater intrusion into aquifers can compromise drinking water supplies, while the loss of land due to erosion can displace populations and disrupt local economies.
Increased Frequency and Intensity of Hurricanes
The Caribbean is no stranger to hurricanes, but climate change is making these storms more frequent and intense.
Warmer ocean temperatures provide more energy for storms, leading to more destructive hurricanes.
The 2017 hurricane season, which saw the devastation of islands like Puerto Rico and Dominica, serves as a stark reminder of the potential for catastrophic impacts.
Increased storm intensity can result in more significant damage to homes, infrastructure, and natural ecosystems, further complicating recovery efforts and straining already limited resources.
Coral Reef Degradation
Coral reefs, which are vital to the Caribbean’s marine biodiversity and tourism economy, are also suffering from climate change.
Rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification are leading to coral bleaching, where corals lose their vibrant colors and the symbiotic algae that provide them with nutrients.
Healthy coral reefs protect coastlines from erosion and support fisheries, making their decline a critical concern. The loss of these ecosystems can disrupt local economies reliant on fishing and tourism, which are key pillars of many Caribbean nations.
Impacts on Agriculture
Agriculture in the Caribbean is highly sensitive to climate variations. Changes in rainfall patterns, increased temperatures, and extreme weather events can adversely affect crop yields.
Farmers may face challenges such as droughts or flooding, which can lead to food insecurity and economic instability.
Additionally, the shift in climate can introduce new pests and diseases, further threatening agricultural productivity.
As a result, rural communities that depend on farming may experience increased poverty and migration as they seek more stable livelihoods.
Social and Economic Consequences
Vulnerable populations, particularly those in low-income areas, are disproportionately affected.
Displacement due to rising sea levels and extreme weather events can lead to increased migration and strain on urban centers.
The economic impact is also significant, with tourism a major economic driver at risk from environmental degradation and extreme weather.
As natural attractions diminish, the Caribbean may struggle to maintain its appeal as a tourist destination.
The way forward
Climate change poses a multifaceted threat to the Caribbean, impacting its environment, economy, and communities.
Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts at local, national, and international levels.
Investment in climate resilience, sustainable development practices, and disaster preparedness is essential to safeguard the future of the Caribbean.
By prioritizing adaptation and mitigation strategies, the region can work towards a more sustainable and resilient future, ensuring that its rich cultural and natural heritage endures for generations to come.
A very special thank you to the Scotiabank Foundation for supporting the development of young people through initiatives like the Cari-Bois Youth Journalism Project.
