THE HAGUE – Climate change is no longer a future threat for the Caribbean part of the Kingdom, but an everyday reality already affecting the islands, according to the Dutch Red Cross.
In a statement published on its website, the organization warned that Curaçao, Aruba, Bonaire and the other Caribbean islands are increasingly facing the consequences of rising sea levels, drought, extreme rainfall and stronger hurricanes. The Red Cross says greater attention and support from the European Netherlands are urgently needed.
According to the organization, Bonaire, Aruba and Curaçao are particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels and growing water shortages. The Red Cross also warned that critical infrastructure could come under pressure, including Curaçao’s harbor facilities.
For the Windward Islands, increasingly powerful hurricanes represent one of the greatest climate-related risks.
The humanitarian organization also referred to a recent court ruling in which a judge concluded that the Dutch state is not adequately protecting Bonaire residents against the consequences of climate change. According to the Red Cross, the ruling underlines the urgency of taking additional protective measures.
The organization further warned about the deterioration of coral reefs and mangroves throughout the Caribbean. Experts consider these ecosystems to be natural barriers that help protect coastlines against storms, erosion and high waves.
Several restoration projects are already underway on different islands to strengthen and rehabilitate these natural protective systems.
The Red Cross emphasized that local knowledge and stronger regional cooperation are essential to improving resilience across the Caribbean islands. According to the organization, structural investments, disaster preparedness and preventive measures will be necessary to limit future damage and reduce risks linked to climate change.