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 T’Kaiyaa Julien of Guayaguayare Secondary School.
Climate change is a global crisis that poses significant threats to wellbeing of Small Island Developing States (SIDs) like Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean.
Understanding how climate change affects Trinidad and Tobago is crucial for developing effective adaptation and mitigation strategies.
One of the most noticeable impacts of climate change on Trinidad and Tobago is the increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.
Over the past several years, heavy rainfall has led to significant flooding, particularly in coastal areas and low-lying regions of Trinidad and Tobago.
These disruptive events not only affect daily life but also threaten agriculture which is one of the critical sectors for the nation’s food security and economy.
Crop yields are adversely affected, leading to increased food prices and impacting the livelihoods of farmers.
Additionally, rising sea levels pose a significant risk to Trinidad and Tobago’s coastal communities.
As the planet warms, glaciers and ice caps melt, contributing to higher sea levels that threaten to submerge low-lying areas.
Coastal erosion is already evident in parts of Trinidad and Tobago leading to loss of land and displacement of communities.
For a country with a high population density in coastal regions, the situation is dire.
Efforts to mitigate these effects, such as constructing sea walls and restoring mangrove ecosystems, are critical to protecting vulnerable communities.
The economic implications of climate change in Trinidad are profound, particularly given the country’s heavy reliance on oil and gas revenues.
This industry is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.
Transitioning to a more sustainable and diversified economy is imperative. The government has begun exploring renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, to reduce its carbon footprint and decrease dependency on fossil fuels.
Implementing policies that encourage investment in green technologies could foster economic resilience and job creation in new sectors.
Socially, climate change makes worst existing inequalities in Trinidad and Tobago.
Vulnerable populations, including low-income communities and indigenous groups, are disproportionately affected by environmental degradation and lack the resources to adapt.
These groups often have limited access to healthcare, education, and financial support, making them more susceptible to the adverse effects of climate change.
Addressing these disparities through targeted policies and community engagement is essential for building a more resilient society.
Climate change presents a multifaceted challenge for Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean, affecting its environment, economy, and society.
While the impacts are significant, proactive measures can be taken to address these challenges.
By investing in sustainable practices, enhancing community resilience, and promoting equitable access to resources, Trinidad and Tobago can work towards a more sustainable and climate-resilient future.
The path forward requires collective action, innovative solutions, and a commitment to prioritizing the well-being of all citizens in the face of a changing climate.
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.
