Knowledge and Perspectives of Residents in Grenada Regarding Climate Change and the Impacts on the Coastal Environment

Abstract

Objective: The authors conducted this study to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of residents in two parishes in Grenada with regard to climate change and coastal and marine ecosystems. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a survey administered to 220 residents in two parishes, St. John and St. Mark, which lie along the west coast in Grenada. Results: At least 50% of the respondents correctly identified factors that can contribute to climate change although the majority, 52.6%, also stated they were "somewhat informed" about impacts of climate change and mitigation measures. Overall, about 90% of respondents did not participate in programmes to raise awareness about climate change or coastal ecosystem management in the past five years. Residents who completed their education lower than college, residents above 45 years and residents in St. Mark were found to have significantly lower levels of knowledge and awareness about climate change and coastal ecosystem. Together, almost 50% of respondents reported they were somewhat concerned, not concerned at all or not sure if they should be concerned about climate change. In each case, more than 50% of the respondents also felt communities were prevented from taking action due to lack of knowledge, cooperation, and resources. There was moderate to high support for designating Marine Protected Areas in St. John and St. Mark. Conclusion: Residents in St. John and St. Mark need to increase their knowledge and awareness of the relationship between climate change, coastal and marine ecosystem, and community development and sustainability. Increasing knowledge about climate change is also expected to have a positive effect on the residents' participation in the Coastal Protection for Climate Change Adaptation in Small Island States project.