Coastal zone adaptation in Trinidad and Tobago: a review of literature

Abstract

Empirical evidence supports that anthropogenic activities have brought about significant changes in our climate. In the instance of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) there is a potentially significant impact from the effects of climate change as the majority of the population resides within the coastal zone, thereby increasing potential loss of life and damage to property during climate related events. Determining vulnerability can provide an assessment of the factors that place communities at risk to the potential loss of life and property and assist in the creation of solutions towards increased resilience and adaptation. This paper explores the literature on the coastal zone vulnerabilities of Trinidad and Tobago with particular focus on the Caroni River Basin, the most populated basin on the island. In addition to the population growth in the coastal zone, key sectors of subsistent agriculture, fisheries, cottage industries, oil refineries and manufacturing are located within the coastal zone. Therefore, this paper also highlights the myriad of vulnerabilities of Caribbean SIDS and outlines environmentally sensitive design solutions for coastal zone adaptation.