Turks and Caicos Islands

5.5.3. Technology
A high degree of access to technology at various levels (i.e. from local to national) and in all sectors may
potentially play a significant role in biodiversity adaptation to climate change (Burton, 1996). The
Government of TCI has embraced the use of modern technology in its conservation efforts. A habitat
mapping exercise has taken place recently under the aegis of the Department of Environment and Coastal
Resources that shows the diversity of ecosystems that exist in the islands. No other country in the
Caribbean Region has attempted the monumental task of preparing a standardized national vegetation
classification and detailed, country-wide habitat mapping geodatabase at such a detailed scale. This
landmark study is anticipated to help inform decision-making so that environmental health is preserved
during the pursuit of economic advancements (SWA Ltd., Blue Dolphin Research and Consulting Inc., EDSA,
2010).
Funded by the UK Government and DECR’s Conservation Fund, Biorock coral reef restoration projects were
initiated in waters around Grand Turk, at Oasis (October 2006) and at Governor’s Beach (November 2007).
These projects have regenerated corals and fish populations in areas of barren sand or bedrock and are
now attractive to snorkelers. Despite challenges in the initial stages and some impacts from extreme
events, high coral survival and low structural damage after hurricanes indicate that Biorock reef restoration
can be effective in building reef resilience in TCI. Reefs balls have also been used to enhance the marine
environment of Grand Turks. Subsequent to Hurricane Ike, the Government emphasized that technical
support was needed in assessing impacts of the cyclone on fish stocks and fisheries livelihoods (UNEP,
2008).
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