Assessing Health Infrastructure Vulnerability in Low Elevation Coastal Zones of Latin America and the Caribbean: A Population Perspective

Sabrina Juran, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)
Luis de la Rua Rodriguez, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)
Andrew J. Tatem, University of Southampton

Climate change represents a significant threat to global stability and safety, particularly through the rising sea levels, which pose a direct threat to coastal populations.1 “Sea-level rise (SLR) is one of the major consequences of climate change and is expected to continue for centuries even under stringent mitigation. SLR can have significant impacts on the world's coastal regions that include increased flooding, erosion, loss of land and wetlands, and saltwater intrusion.”2 This article delves into the vulnerability of 41 million people in Latin America and the Caribbean to the consequences of sea-level rise. It discusses the projections of sea-level increase, its implications for coastal populations, and the urgent need for adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Keywords: Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

See paper.