The Bahamas is one of the most vulnerable countries in the world to the effects of climate change. While we contribute very little to global greenhouse gas emissions that drive climate change, we will not be spared from the expected adverse impacts that will result from these emissions.
Climate change will affect all aspects of life in The Bahamas. Sea level rise is anticipated to encroach upon our land and intrude into our fresh water tables. Hurricanes will increase in intensity, and storm surges will be higher than before. These effects will all lead to increased flooding, property damage and potentially loss of lives.
Warmer sea temperatures and ocean acidification will detrimentally affect our marine resources, such as our coral reefs, wetlands and fisheries. Our agricultural, fisheries and tourism industries will also be affected by these changes to the environment. Climate change may eventually lead to the displacement of parts of the Bahamian population in certain islands, and eventually perhaps the entire country, leading to a disappeared island nation.
Climate change is not a distance issue for us as Bahamians; it is already happening and cannot be ignored. The impacts of climate change are environmental, social and economic; it does, and is anticipated to, affect all aspects of life as we know it. However, we can act to lessen the impacts of climate change in The Bahamas. We can protect our natural resources to make them better able to respond and adapt to the impacts of climate change.
Get educated and get involved; the future of our country depends on it