Climate Resilience key to sustainability amidst climate changes: CIMH Principal Farrell

David Farell, Principal of the Caribbean Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology, recently addressed a regional workshop regarding climate change. The theme of the event was “National Frameworks for Climate Services in the Caribbean”.

The event held at Accra Beach Resort was concerned with the dynamics of climate change. The workshop particularly focused on how to remain resilient to changing weather conditions. Caribbean countries were encouraged to develop methods for dealing with changing climatic conditions.

Developing climate resilience is the need of the hour, as it means developing methods that can help us sustain various aspects of life, such as agriculture, despite climate changes.

David Farrell outlined the importance of collaborating with the government, NGOs, and other climate enthusiasts to aid preparation for natural disasters. Although talks about the national framework for climate change started over a decade ago, there is plenty of work to be done.

Principal Farrell expressed his appreciation for what has been achieved so far. However, he also showed concerns for not being further in the process of implementation of climate services in the region.

He stressed that they need to take more measures nationally. This will help build resilience to climate variability in countries all across the region. He appealed for collaboration with financial sector to help with challenges caused by drought in Panama Canal.

Furthermore, he emphasized the need to develop national-level solutions for the concern as this will reduce dependency on CIMH. He suggested studying the economic structures and building services in accordance with the same.

This workshop was of utmost importance as Dr Van Meerback predicted Caribbean countries are expecting hotter temperatures this coming summer. The CIMH climatologist also expects more severe hurricanes and tropical cyclones. UN weather agency has issued a Red Alert on climate change as ice melt has increased in 2023.

When such severe weather conditions are expected in the region, developing climate resilience measures makes ample sense.