🌿 Dominica: Building a Climate‑Resilient Nation in the Heart of the Caribbean

 Introduction

Affectionately known as the "Nature Island," Dominica is blessed with rich biodiversity, from rainforests to geothermal springs. Yet in 2017, Hurricane Maria devastated the island, inflicting damage equal to roughly 226 % of its GDP and destroying nearly 95 % of homes. Out of adversity, Dominica emerged with a bold vision: to become the world's first climate-resilient nation.

1. A Paradise Tested by Nature 🌋

Dominica's mountainous terrain, wealth of rivers, and Atlantic exposure make it uniquely beautiful—and highly susceptible to hurricanes, floods, and landslides. Hurricane Maria’s Category 5 impact brought catastrophic destruction: roofs were torn off, power lines collapsed, and communities were cut off for days. 

2. Rebuilding with Resilience 🏗️

➤ Climate Resilience Execution Agency for Dominica (CREAD)

In response, the government created CREAD to coordinate recovery and lead long-term resilience efforts—including infrastructure upgrades, housing reconstruction, and capacity building. 

➤ Strengthened Infrastructure & Housing

New homes follow strengthened building codes, and emergency shelters equipped with solar power and water storage are now part of community infrastructure. 

➤ Renewable Energy

Dominica is tapping into its geothermal potential. The government signed agreements for large-scale geothermal and green-hydrogen initiatives, with plans for 100 % renewable electricity by 2030. 

➤ Nature-Based Solutions

Reforestation efforts and slope stabilization projects now protect against landslides and improve watershed resilience. 

3. Sustainable Futures: Green Economy 🌱

  • Ecotourism & Conservation: Nature-based tourism supports livelihoods and ecosystem preservation.

  • Agroecology: Farmers use sustainable methods to enhance food security and resilience.

  • Indigenous Leadership: The Kalinago people's environmental stewardship anchors resilience efforts. 

4. Protecting Children & Communities 👧🏾

Children were among the hardest hit: schools doubled as shelters, mental health issues surged, and basic services were disrupted. Dominica responded by embedding disaster preparedness in school curricula, building child-safe shelters, and providing psychosocial support for young survivors.

5. Lessons for the Caribbean 🌎

Dominica demonstrates that small nations can lead the fight against climate change by:

  • Strengthening infrastructure and rebuilding smarter

  • Harnessing renewable energy to reduce dependency

  • Reforming financial and disaster-response systems

  • Prioritizing children and community well-being in resilience planning

Conclusion

Dominica transformed tragedy into purpose—emerging not just intact, but visionary. As the hurricane season looms, the island's journey offers a powerful model: resilience is more than recovery—it's evolution. May Dominica inspire every Caribbean nation to prepare, adapt, and thrive—in harmony with both nature and our communities.

With hope and solidarity,
Z. Charles
Founder, Green Caribbean Chronicles

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