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 second assignment, students wrote a story about how climate change affects their respective communities. This story was written by T’Kaiyaa Julien of Guayaguayare Secondary School.
As a coastal community, Guayaguayare has increasingly been feeling the effects of climate for the past several years with coastal erosion being one of the most prominent issues.
Apart from loss of land, this erosion also poses a risk to infrastructure in the area like roads and buildings.
Also, with receding shorelines, the community is losing its natural protective barriers against storm surges and coastal flooding.
Climate change is also contributing to altered rainfall patterns with periods of prolonged and intense rainfall becoming more frequent.
As farmers struggle to adapt to unpredictable rainfall, this can lead to crop failures and reduced yields.
Additionally, the increased frequency of heavy rainfall can result in flash floods, causing damage to property and infrastructure.
The marine ecosystem, which sustains the livelihoods of many in Guayaguayare, is also at risk because of climate change.
Climate change is also posing significant risks to public health.
Rising temperatures and increased humidity create ideal conditions for the breeding of mosquitoes, leading to an upsurge in vector-borne diseases like dengue fever and Zika virus.
Furthermore, flooding and poor sanitation can contribute to the spread of waterborne diseases.
The economic implications of climate change for Guayaguayare are far-reaching.
The tourism industry is threatened by coastal erosion and the degradation of marine ecosystems.
Fishermen, who depend on healthy marine environments, face declining catches and uncertain livelihoods.
To mitigate the impacts of climate change, a multi-faceted approach is necessary.
Coastal protection measures, such as seawalls and beach nourishment, can help to reduce erosion and protect infrastructure.
Sustainable water management practices, including rainwater harvesting and efficient irrigation, can help to address water scarcity.
Additionally, diversifying the local economy can reduce reliance on climate-sensitive sectors like agriculture and tourism.
Community-based adaptation strategies are crucial for building resilience.
Engaging local communities in decision-making processes and empowering them to take action can lead to more effective and sustainable solutions.
Education and awareness campaigns can help to increase understanding of climate change and promote climate-friendly behaviors.
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.
