🌍 UK urged to help Cayman Islands prepare for climate change impacts

Following a Nor’wester that recently struck parts of the Cayman Islands, local environmental activists are calling on the UK government to aid in implementing strategies to prepare the islands for the impacts of climate change. A report by Sustainable Cayman highlights the imminent threat of climate change to the islands' economy, tourism industry, and the safety of its residents. The report, supported by OnePlanet, discusses issues such as sea-level rise, infrastructure vulnerabilities, and potential implications for local culture and the islands' role as an international finance centre. 🌊

The absence of any tangible climate change action plans from the Cayman Islands Government has prompted the non-profit to campaign for the support of the British government, given the Cayman Islands' status as a dependent territory. The activists argue that the UK has a significant responsibility to engage with Caymanians on matters of national security. The report also highlights the need for strategies to protect the country and its people, including plans for potential evacuation due to rising sea levels. The report suggests that by the end of this century, more than 70% of buildings on the islands will be impacted by sea-level rise. 🏘️

The report also points out the existing challenges in Cayman, such as a critical housing situation. The shortage of affordable housing, coupled with escalating property and rental prices, is putting pressure on residents in middle- and low-income brackets. As the coastline erodes due to rising sea levels and severe storms, residents living near the shore may need to be relocated. The report suggests that Caymanians may eventually become climate refugees, necessitating migration plans. The activists suggest Scotland as a potential destination due to its shared British heritage, linguistic ties, and similar coastal culture. 🏴