A JAMAICAN treasure, the world-renowned 'seven miles of white sand' beach in Negril is in grave danger. Our report in Sunday's Gleaner that the beach is disappearing because of shifting weather patterns, appears to have caused no stir within the establishment.
But more than aesthetics are at stake. Beaches are a cornerstone of the tourist industry, and damaged beaches will mean fewer visitors.
There is a natural cycle to a beach. Winter storms erode the sand; summer currents bring it back. For years the cycle was more or less in balance in Negril. However, over the last decade shifting weather patterns have brought unprecedented erosion to Western Jamaica. Some areas have lost as much as 300 feet of beach over the last two years.
Negril is relatively unprotected by coral reefs. Some of the damage may also have been caused by improper development too close to the water.
So what's to be done? The changing weather patterns and rising sea levels are attributed to global warming caused by the emission of so-called greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide, into the atmosphere.
UN-sponsored talks are underway in The Hague, The Netherlands, to make a deal for industrialised nations to change transport and energy policies to reduce emissions in keeping with the Kyoto Protocol agreed in Japan, three years ago. We hope they succeed.
More important, however, is what we can do at home.
The Natural Resources Conservation Authority must exercise leadership. Measures must be taken to reduce erosion and restore lost sand. Such approaches must be co-ordinated. Laws about coastal development must be enforced.
The Negril Chamber of Commerce, aware that pristine beaches are key to its members' livelihood, is prepared to contribute funds to save the beach. They need the NRCA's guidance and technical assistance.
This is one time when the slogan 'Jamaica no problem' is not correct. We can't bury our heads in the sand and pretend there is no problem. That will only assure that there is no sand. Leadership is required.
The opinions on this page, except for the above, do not necessarily reflect the views of The Gleaner.
