The Turks and Caicos Islands actively participated in the recent Green Overseas (GO) Climate Change Resilience Community workshop, held from May 19 to 23, 2025, in St Barthélemy and Sint Maarten/Saint Martin. This significant five-day workshop focused on enhancing regional collaboration among Environmental and Disaster Management Professionals from 15 different countries and territories.
With the pressing challenges posed by climate change and increasing coastal threats, experts gathered to develop effective strategies for protecting vulnerable ecosystems and communities. The event included a series of presentations, interactive discussions, and field visits specifically designed to bolster local and regional capabilities in addressing climate-related coastal issues.
Representatives from the Turks and Caicos Islands, Mr. Angelo Duncan, Hazard Mitigation and GIS Manager from the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME), and Ms. Britney Simmons, Land Use Planner from The Planning Department, played a crucial role in the discussions. They shared insights into the national adaptation strategies of TCI and emphasized the importance of data-driven decision-making in environmental management, particularly through the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). This technology is essential for monitoring coral health, shoreline erosion, and habitat loss, enabling experts to prioritize conservation and resilience-building initiatives effectively.
Duncan remarked on the valuable exchange of knowledge among the territories, stating, “The workshop highlighted that while overseas territories face unique environmental challenges, our collaboration strengthens our commitment to safeguarding these vital ecosystems. Sharing innovations and best practices is key to achieving a more resilient and sustainable future for our islands.”
Participants also had the opportunity to tour critical coastal sites in St. Martin and Saint Barthélemy, where they observed nature-based mitigation techniques and community-driven strategies that can be adapted for implementation in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The workshop significantly expanded the GO Climate Change Resilience network, fostering ongoing regional collaboration. Attendees included representatives from Anguilla, Bermuda, Curaçao, Falkland Islands, New Caledonia, French Polynesia, and several other territories, highlighting a united effort in combating climate change challenges.
This initiative represents hope for enhanced climate resilience in the Caribbean, showcasing a commitment to proactive environmental stewardship and cooperation across various territories.