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 Dinnely Gardiner of Roxborough Secondary School.
Climate change is no longer a distant threat, it is a pressing reality that is affecting communities around the world in different ways.
In Tobago, one of the most visible ways that climate change is affecting communities is through its impact on public health.
Rising temperatures have been linked to an increase in heat-related illnesses, especially among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.
During recent dry seasons, communities across Tobago have experienced record-high temperatures which increases the risk of people having heat strokes.
Additionally, climate change can contribute to the spread of vector-borne diseases.
Warmer temperatures create favorable conditions for mosquitoes and ticks, which can carry diseases such as West Nile virus and Lyme disease.
Economic Impact
Tobago Farmers are facing unpredictable weather patterns, including droughts and heavy rainfall, which disrupt planting and harvesting schedules.
Crop yields are declining, leading to financial strain for local farmers and increasing food prices for consumers.
With the agricultural sector being the “backbone” of many Tobagonian community’s, communities are now left vulnerable which increases the need for sustainable practices and resilient crops.
Tourism is another important part of Tobago’s economy that is being affected by climate change.
However, the increasing frequency of extreme weather events threatens to deter visitors.
Community Resilience and Adaptation
Despite the challenges posed by climate change, our community is demonstrating remarkable resilience and adaptability.
Local leaders are prioritizing sustainability in planning and development, focusing on green infrastructure, renewable energy sources, and community education.
Initiatives such as community gardens, tree planting programs, and renewable energy cooperatives are gaining traction, fostering a sense of collective responsibility and action among residents.
Community engagement is an important tool to build climate resilience.
Local organizations are hosting workshops and forums to educate residents about the impacts of climate change and how they can take action.
By working collaboratively, communities across Tobago can not only mitigate the impacts of climate change but also create a more sustainable and vibrant future for our community.
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.
