Innovative Protected Cultivation Systems in the Caribbean - TCP/SLC/3803

Abstract

Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are highly vulnerable to food insecurity due to limited land and population, scarcity of arable land, climate change, natural disasters, and dependence on food imports. These regions face a "triple burden" of malnutrition, where undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and obesity coexist. Although undernutrition has decreased, obesity levels have risen to affect one-third of adults. Current food systems have exacerbated malnutrition and health costs due to a preference for processed foods, significant food loss and waste, and increased food safety issues. Water scarcity is another critical challenge, with limited water catchment basins and reliance on groundwater exacerbated by climate change, affecting agriculture and local food production. Food loss and waste are prevalent across the supply chain, with substantial losses in fresh fruits and vegetables. To address these issues, the project aims to promote smart, sustainable production and post-harvest handling of vegetables through protected systems such as greenhouses and hydroponics. This initiative will empower technicians and smallholders, improve resource use efficiency, enhance pest and disease management, and increase resilience to climate change. By improving post-harvest practices, the project seeks to reduce losses and improve the quality of vegetables, which are vital for nutrition. The project will assess the current situation in each country, develop optimized protected cultivation systems, and draft action plans for government implementation. Historical evidence shows that protected cultivation systems can survive extreme weather events, providing a reliable food source and higher income. This initiative aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aiming to build more resilient food systems in the Caribbean.