assessment of the socio-economic and environmental impact

PROJECT TITLE: COASTAL ECOSYSTEM STUDY
The Problem
The Jamaican coastal ecosystems are characterized by mangroves, seagrass beds and coral reefs.
The ecosystems provide habitat, nursery and food for many commercial fish species and other
marine organisms. They also act as sediment traps and buffers to reduce storm surge and also
replenish sand on beaches. Besides the ecological role of these ecosystems, they provide social
and economic benefits such as livelihood for many coastal dwellers (such as in Hellshire, Rocky
Point and Old Harbour Bay) and is integral to our ‘sun sea and sand’ style of tourism.
However, the coastal ecosystems are not only being impacted by anthropogenic factors but by
frequent storm events. Within the last five years (2002-2007), more than five storms have
affected these ecosystems, two of which have been intense hurricanes, Hurricane Ivan (2004)
and Hurricane Dean (2007). Due to the frequent impact from storms events, these ecosystems
have had little time to recover which makes them even more vulnerable. Their continued loss has
reduced marine biodiversity, increased the vulnerability of coastal areas and infrastructure and
threatens tourism, one of the country’s main economic sectors. Also fish traps and other fishing
gears are usually lost at sea after a storm and continue to “ghost” fish which can contribute to
significant over-fishing. So far, there has been inadequate assessment of the impact of storm
events on the ecosystems due to inadequate financial and technical capacity. Additionally, the
socio-economic value of coastal ecosystems is unknown but this information is pivotal to
assessing the impact of natural hazards and encouraging protection. Information on the status of
these ecosystems is sparse or absent.
The study is expected to provide a framework for the improved management and rehabilitation
of coastal ecosystems. Better understanding of the social, economic and ecological value of these
ecosystems will enable better assessment of the impact of storm events on the ecosystems
themselves and on the country’s economy. Information gained through this project will not only
aid in creating an ecosystems database but will also assist in developing a natural hazards and
risk management strategy for coastal ecosystems.
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