Overview: Contribution to Climate Change Knowledge and Understanding

Climate change poses a significant threat to the economies, communities, and environments across the Caribbean. The CARIBSAVE Climate Change Risk Atlas (CCCRA) Phase I, conducted from 2009-2011 and funded by DFID/UKaid and AusAID, examined the climate change risks, vulnerabilities, and adaptive capacities of 15 Caribbean countries. Using evidence-based approaches and climate modelling under three scenarios (A2, A1B, and B1), the CCCRA developed pragmatic response strategies to reduce vulnerabilities and enhance resilience.

The countries involved in this extensive study include Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, The Dominican Republic, Grenada, Jamaica, Nevis, Saint Lucia, St. Kitts, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Suriname, and the Turks & Caicos Islands. By combining multiple Global Climate Models (GCMs) and downscaled Regional Climate Models (RCMs), the project provided localized projections of climate impacts, helping to identify strategies that address the specific needs of each nation.

Impact

The CCCRA delivers valuable insights across critical sectors such as community livelihoods, agriculture, energy, water security, disaster management, health, and biodiversity, all examined through the lens of the tourism sector—one of the Caribbean's most vital socio-economic drivers. This research informs efforts to strengthen climate resilience in key areas like coastal infrastructure, food security, and marine ecosystems, supporting sustainable development across the region.

For more details on this work, access the full document here: https://www.mona.uwi.edu/physics/sites/default/files/physics/uploads/FINAL%20Full%20Risk%20Profile%20CCCRA%20-%20Jamaica.pdf