Location: St. Lucia

"Rudy John Beach in Laborie, St Lucia is dotted with activity daily. People frolic onshore and in the water, fishing canoes gently buoy off-shore, and residences and business places of villagers fringe the shore. However, like the grey skies overhead, the potential effects of climate change loom over the coastal village.

Climate change refers to the worldwide phenomena of a shift in the usual climate of the planet as a result of human activity. This shift in climate has adverse effects on our oceans and coastal areas. Sudden rises in ocean temperatures and acidification can lead to the loss or depletion of marine habitats and species. This means a reduction in the seafood caught by local fishermen, thereby threatening the viability of their trade so that they may have to seek alternative employment. Also, sea-level rise could lead to coastal erosion so that those living in coastal areas may be forced to relocate."

-Vernesa St. Marie