Jamaica’s Coastal Problems
Jamaica has been affected with erosion, flooding and landslides. A United Nations environmental expert is predicting that several beaches on the western end of Jamaica could be totally wiped out in the next five to 10 years if local authorities and citizens do not act now to protect the environment. Flooding in coastal communities around Jamaica is nothing new but in recent years, what used to be unusual has become a frequent occurrence.
High waves have also destroyed the sand dunes, which had served as a natural fortification for the island. United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) said bad environmental and building practices, and illegal dumping of pollutants in the sea were killing sea grass and coral reefs, thus reducing their effectiveness in protecting the beaches from eroding.
According to UNEP, the ecosystem in Jamaica, like many other countries in the world, is under serious threat. The Caribbean has contributed very little to global climate change, but UN experts warn that small island nations like Jamaica are expected to bear the brunt of the damage.
Jamaica has plans to build submerged breakwaters and it hopes that it will absorb wave energy and slow loss of shoreline, using an initial $5.4 million in grants from a U.N. climate change convention.
Insane to think that in a few years beaches will be gone in that side of the island...I can see some of the best beaches are in the West! we do not talk enough about this...I'm happy they are doing sth about it. Let's see if it is not too late.
ReplyDeleteInsane to think that in a few years beaches will be gone in that side of the island...I can see some of the best beaches are in the West! we do not talk enough about this...I'm happy they are doing sth about it. Let's see if it is not too late.
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