Grenadian citizens call for enhanced Water Resource Protection amid Climate Change challenges
The repeated call for the protection of the islands’ water resources, including safeguarding watersheds, was voiced by citizens during the Ministry of Climate Resilience’s National Adaptation Plan (NAP) community consultations held in collaboration with the Climate-Resilient Water Sector in Grenada (G-CREWS) project and NAP Global Network (NAP-GN).
Residents listening to presentation delivered by Dr. Roxanne Graham – National Climate Change Adaptation officer on climate change impacts in Grenada. © Ministry of Climate Resilience
The recent devastation caused by Beryl in July 2024, a category 4 hurricane, which severely impacted the sister isles of Carriacou and Petit Martinique, is a stark reminder of the urgent need for climate action. Its disruption to the water cycle and impact on climate-sensitive sectors underline the importance of ensuring that a clean and reliable water supply is available.
Rainwater harvesting is the main source of water for the residents on the sister isles, who receive only on average 48 inches of rainfall annually, which was captured and collected on rooftops that are no longer there, after the eye of Beryl went over the island. The lone water company in Grenada runs a costly desalinated water plant Iin Carriacou and Petite Martinique that is not able to provide sufficient drinking water. During the consultations, the residents called for the rehabilitation of government cisterns which they believe could provide an adequate supply of water during times of disasters.
Climate and Outreach Advisor, G-CREWS Ms. Leyana Romain responding to residents’ comments. © Andre Burke
Water management is a key program of action (POA 3) within Grenada’s NAP which outline plans to protect its communities from climate change impacts and identifies measures to secure funding to strengthen the islands’ defenses against climate-related disasters. These strategies include: increasing water supply and improving infrastructure, increasing public awareness on water conservation, promoting demand side management and introducing water reuse especially in the agricultural sector. Protection of water sheds and reforestation was also emphasized as indirect avenues of securing water and helping to reduce carbon emissions. Additionally, enhancing public awareness, conservation, and demand-side management can reduce the pressure on the water utility system, leading to lower energy consumption.
Some of these actions to address water availability outlined in the 2017- 2021 document are currently being implemented through the G-CREWS project. As the NAP is updated for the period 2025 – 2030, many of the actions remain relevant, with the need the need for upscaling and expansion to achieve greater impact and continued sustainability.
The consultations were guided by the slogan: “Everyone in action, for climate change adaptation”.
- Country: Grenada
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