Agriculture by the seaside: An assessment of the vulnerability to climate change in Portland, Jamaica

Climate change significantly affects agriculture in Jamaica's coastal areas, which are densely populated. These regions have the most fertile land, making them crucial for agricultural activities. However, climate change has led to an increase in the frequency and severity of natural disasters like hurricanes, floods, droughts, and erosion. With the added pressure of land competition, coastal agriculture faces multiple challenges that hinder sustainable output. Understanding the vulnerability of farms and farmers to extreme weather events, particularly hurricanes, is essential. Through field surveys, interviews, stakeholder consultations, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analysis, a comprehensive assessment of the negative impacts on coastal farms in Portland was conducted. Data on coastline proximity, crop yield, and damages were used to create a vulnerability index and map using GIS. This information is valuable for informing the allocation and implementation of sustainable agriculture practices. It is crucial to ensure food security and preserve the economic viability of the agricultural sector amidst environmental challenges.