Introduction
Climate change is no longer a distant concern; it’s an active force disrupting ecosystems, economies, and communities. In Trinidad and Tobago, agriculture stands among the most vulnerable sectors. Rising temperatures, irregular rainfall, and more extreme weather events are directly impacting food production. With over 70% of the country’s food imported, any threat to domestic agriculture puts national food security at risk.
Changing Weather and Agricultural Instability
Over the last 30 years, average temperatures in Trinidad and Tobago have risen by approximately 1.3°C. While that may appear modest, it’s enough to cause major shifts in farming conditions. Rainfall patterns have grown increasingly unpredictable. Reports indicate a 12% decline in annual rainfall across major farming districts, paired with more frequent and longer dry spells.
Key crops affected by these conditions include:
- Tomatoes
- Hot peppers
- Lettuce
- Cucumbers
Farmers have also observed a surge in pest outbreaks, such as the fall armyworm, which thrives in hotter climates. This pest alone has slashed corn yields by up to 35% in affected areas.
Flooding and Soil Erosion
Increased flooding, especially in flood-prone areas like Caroni and Mayaro, is damaging crops and eroding soil quality. An estimated 18% of arable land in these regions now shows signs of significant nutrient loss. In coastal zones, saltwater intrusion due to sea level rise has begun to compromise soil, with around 8% of coastal farmland affected.
Soil health is critical for sustainable agriculture. Loss of topsoil and nutrients directly reduces productivity, leading to lower harvests and increasing the cost of cultivation.
Water Scarcity and Irrigation Struggles
Reliable water access is becoming a major constraint. WASA data indicates a 15% reduction in usable freshwater for irrigation since 2010. With longer dry seasons and declining river flow, many farmers are unable to sustain crops year-round.
Small-scale farmers, who account for roughly 60% of agricultural output, are particularly vulnerable. In 2023, 41% of these farmers delayed or skipped planting due to limited water availability.
Food Import Dependency and Economic Exposure
Trinidad and Tobago imports over $5 billion TT in food annually. Local production satisfies only 15–20% of national demand. Global disruptions like droughts, shipping delays, or international price hikes have a direct effect on food affordability in Trinidad and Tobago.
Between 2020 and 2023, the prices of onions, potatoes, and garlic rose by 25–30%, partly driven by both local shortages and global supply chain issues. If climate conditions worsen globally, experts project a 20% spike in the cost of imported food over the next decade.
Building Climate Resilience in Agriculture
Efforts to adapt and build resilience are underway:
- Farmers are adopting drought-resistant crops like cassava, pigeon peas, and dasheen
- Greenhouse cultivation is growing, increasing yield by up to 50% while conserving water
- Rainwater harvesting systems and low-pressure drip irrigation are being promoted
- The Ministry of Agriculture offers training in climate-smart farming techniques
However, only about 5% of farms currently use protected agriculture systems, indicating substantial room for growth in this area.
Conclusion
Climate change is reshaping the landscape of agriculture in Trinidad and Tobago. With reduced rainfall, increased flooding, and rising temperatures, the ability to produce food locally is under pressure. Strengthening the resilience of the agricultural sector through technology, training, and investment is key to protecting national food security. By supporting innovation and reducing reliance on imports, the country can chart a more self-reliant and sustainable path forward.