Shut out of global climate forums, Puerto Ricans bet on the power of community

Prism reports on how environmental organizations across Puerto Rico are developing grassroots strategies to combat the climate crisis, working around the limitations imposed by the archipelago’s colonial status, which bars it from participating as a sovereign nation in global forums like the United Nations Climate Change Conferences.

For two years, residents, environmental advocates, and surfers have tried a plethora of tactics to push back against a proposed seaside bike and pedestrian path that they say threatens already vulnerable beaches in Rincón, Puerto Rico. The coastal town has long been a destination for surfers attracted to its strong waves and sandy beaches, but has suffered rapid erosion linked to climate change since Hurricane Maria struck on Sept. 20, 2017.

There is one strategy, however, that local organizers have not yet accessed: taking their fight to the world stage at global forums such as the annual United Nations Climate Change Conferences. Though some environmental groups from the archipelago have attended these events, Puerto Rico cannot join as a sovereign nation because of its colonial status, dating back to 1898.

That status has presented environmental organizers in Puerto Rico with limitations and challenges, but also an opportunity to devise creative solutions to tackle the climate crisis, according to groups interviewed by Prism. As another anniversary of Hurricane Maria approaches, and Puerto Rico continues to face unique and pressing climate challenges, the pressure to strategize thoughtfully is growing.

Absent political power, Puerto Ricans continue to ‘echar pa’ lante’ through influence and collaboration.