The Caribbean is facing major threats due to climate change that will continue to cause environmental, economic, and social damage. Compounding these problems are the stressors associated with economic development in the region. The U.S. Virgin Islands are particularly threatened by the complex problems these two issues present as the pressures of increasing tourism threaten vital natural resources, making sustainable economic diversification necessary. As the U.S. Virgin Islands creates economic development and climate adaptation plans, it is also important to understand how local stakeholders are included in the planning process. Research on community engagement can help reveal whether planning is being done equitably. To analyze these problems, this study examined news discourse around the issues of climate change, economic development, and community engagement. By understanding discourse in local media, this study aims to evaluate the construction of knowledge regarding these issues and demonstrate areas of deficiency that should be addressed. This study took quantitative and qualitative approaches to analyze how these issues were discussed in relation to one another and examined these trends in the context of existing policies and challenges being faced by the territory. This study concludes by providing valuable insights for decision-makers to craft strategies informed by the media presentation and associated public perceptions of these issues.
Rudge, K
Changing climate, changing discourse: Analyzing reporting of climate change and economic development in the U.S. Virgin Islands
Climate Risk Management