September 2012: The UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) Division for Sustainable Development (DSD) has released a report examining adaptation to climate change in sectors including water resources, coastal ecosystems and renewable energy. While this report focuses on Grenada, the broader project, “Integrating Climate Change into National Sustainable Development Strategies in Latin America and the Caribbean,” addresses primary concerns of small island developing States (SIDS).

Titled “Climate Change Adaptation in Grenada: Water Resources, Coastal Ecosystems and Renewable Energy,” the DSD report discusses practical implementation of adaptation efforts and how they are being integrated into Grenada’s national planning for sustainable development. It assesses water resources issues in the country, including: water resources; water production systems; water quality issues; wastewater management; current and future water demand; vulnerability of water resources; water governance; storage options; and energy options for water management. The study also examines the status of coastal ecosystems in Grenada, factors affecting coastal ecosystems, and actions required to restore and maintain coastal ecosystems. The report recommends improving water quality monitoring in Grenada, implementation of the integrated water resources management (IWRM) roadmap, and investing in rainwater harvesting.

On coastal ecosystems, the study suggests replanting forests, including mangroves, development of sustainable use guidelines for coastal ecosystems, and a capacity building programme for communities to support implementation of the guidelines.

On energy, the study focuses on renewable energy for medical and community centers after natural disasters, and includes: natural disaster risk assessments for Grenada; a survey of existing medical and community centers; assessment of ability to respond to natural disaster; practical renewable energy alternatives post-disaster; and the costs and benefits of renewable energy installation. The report recommends the use of solar systems surrounded by a concrete protective wall to provide energy to medical and community centers after disasters. [DESA Press Release] [Publication: Climate Change Adaptation in Grenada: Water Resources, Coastal Ecosystems and Renewable Energy]