Suriname is facing extreme coastal erosion and rising sea levels, endangering its low-lying coastal communities. Approximately 70% of the country’s 600,000 people inhabit these areas. Local authorities have sought solutions, with some regions protected by mangroves acting as a buffer. However, near the capital Paramaribo, limited mangrove protection leaves communities exposed. Restoration initiatives like planting mangroves have faced significant challenges as destructive forces have damaged these efforts. Environmental factors and human actions, such as dredging and farming, contribute to ongoing erosion and habitat loss.
Nearly seven out of 10 people in Suriname live in low-lying coastal areas, making it one of the most vulnerable countries to rising sea levels.
Gandat Sheinderpesad, a local farmer, has lost 95 percent of his land to coastal erosion, highlighting the personal impact of this crisis.
Riad Nurmohamed, Minister of Public Works, notes that while some areas are protected by mangroves, the zone near Paramaribo is particularly vulnerable.
Climate change efforts like the mangrove restoration project led by Sienwnath Naqal face challenges as erosion continues and previous initiatives struggle to take root.
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