The Montserrat Volcano

This document addresses the environmental impacts of the South Soufriere Hills volcano on Montserrat, and opportunities for sustainable development of a viable community in the northern part of the island.

Prior to the eruption, Montserrat depended on subsistence agriculture, subsistence fisheries, tourism and light industry. All four of these have been lost or severely depleted. Only one-third of the island is currently habitable, and this comprises a relatively dry and undeveloped area in the north. Much of the northern area was previously recommended for ecotourism development (Montserrat Physical Plan, approved 1996). Because of the human crisis caused by the eruption, there has been a rapid and largely unplanned development in the northern region. To ensure the long-term sustainability and economic viability of Montserrat, development needs careful planning and implementation. This document suggests options for sustainable development on Montserrat, and takes account of traditional activities, including fisheries, agriculture, and tourism. True sustainable development ensures the long-term economic viability of a community while maintaining the natural resources on which it depends. It does not compromise future opportunities. On a small island with limited resources, it is essential that development be implemented carefully, and with local participation.

Pre-Volcanic status of Montserrat: Prior to the volcanic eruption subsistence fishing was a primary means of livelihood, and was common around the coastline. The volcano has seriously damaged the reefs, and reduced fish density. Fishing areas are now restricted because of reef loss and danger to human life. Catches are already down, and because of the time-lag (due to fish recruitment and life-cycles) the full impacts have not yet been observed. Thus the downward trend is likely to worsen. Agriculture was focused mainly in the southern half of the island. This too consisted mainly of subsistence farming; produce was consumed and sold locally. Pyroclastic flows, gases and heat from the volcano have destroyed the vegetation. Tourism was one of the main industries in Montserrat. Although not specifically classified as ecotourism, most tourism was focused on the environment: In 1994, 90.6% of tourists visited the island to engage in recognized ecotourism activities, including 21.5% for birdwatching, and 13.8% botany. Light industry and the American Medical University (AMU), other sources of income were located in Plymouth. AMU relocated to another island, and light industry has largely disappeared.

Natural Resource Base: Montserrat has many unique features: The island is undeveloped and rich in natural resources. The Montserrat oriole (a threatened bird) famous among birdwatchers, is found only on Montserrat. There are endemic lizards and plants. Prior to volcanic activity, edible native species, such as the Mountain Chicken and land crabs (overharvested elsewhere) were abundant. The surrounding coral reefs were pristine and harbored rare organisms. Unfortunately the volcano has destroyed or threatened some of the these features (e.g. Montserrat Oriole, southern coral reefs). But the story is not all bleak. The northern part of the island is home to many of the same unique and important resources. Because it has been relatively undeveloped, the ecosystems of the north are intact. The Central Hills and Silver Hills areas support high diversity and good soils. The Central Hills are particularly lush. The marine flora and fauna are healthy. SEI continues to monitor these natural systems and has an extensive data base on some species.

The human resources of Montserrat are additionally unique. Many Montserrations have a wealth of knowledge of natural resources and their uses. Some were guides and historians, thus preserving traditions. Often overlooked, this "human capital" is vital to economic well being, and cannot be replaced once lost. These local skills are now much sought after by developed countries (including by the pharmaceutical industry).

Consequences The evacuation has forced more people into a smaller area in the north. This has major consequences for activities that depend on natural resources (e.g. fishing, agriculture, grazing, forestry). New buildings, and additional waste can affect the sustainability of the island. Without careful planning there is the potential for conflict: e.g. between agriculture and tourism; between development and soil stability which can in turn lead to conflicts with fisheries. With careful planning these conflicts can be avoided, and sustainable development that maintains the character of Montserrat can proceed rapidly. Development does not need to be at the expense of the islands natural resource capital, or it's ability to become economically viable.

Sustainable development has radically changed planning. Natural resources, and local knowledge once ignored in economic development are now a focus of economic planning. The benefits to the community, and the costs if these resources and skills are lost have been quantified as significant monetary amounts.

• An immediate need is a clear commitment to sustainability, i.e. ensuring that development provides local economic benefit, and that the costs do not preclude long term viability or future options.
• Development will be most effective and sustainable if there is a strategic approach i.e. an overall plan.
• Environmental Impacts Assessments are legally required prior to major developments. However given the crisis in Montserrat, there is a pressing need for a streamlined response. A blanket EIA, that covers the entire north of the island, can be carried out immediately as part of the sustainable planning process. This will identify key impacts, mitigation steps, and solutions. A local EIA review panel needs to have input into the EIA scope. A blanket EIA with local input will point the direction for sustainable development, and minimize the potential conflicts over current and future land use.
• Effective development requires an assessment of the effect of the volcano on existing natural communities; SEI has prepared reports on some of these.
• Longer term, non-emergency projects, such as hotel developments can be evaluated using individual Environmental Assessments within the spirit and framework of the larger plan.
• It is vital that all assessments and planning provide solutions to potential trade-offs between current development, current impacts and future impacts in terms of lost opportunities for further developments.
• Adequate human services (housing and medical facilities etc) are recognized as immediate needs. There are additional essential needs to ensure the viability of the island, and these must be addressed rapidly.
• Fishing is essential to island communities and Montserrat is no exception. Additional pressure is being placed on diminishing resources. Failure to address the maintenance of this resource will soon lead to crisis. Reef enhancement programs can ensure the sustainability of the fishing industry and will have additional benefits for tourism.
• Agriculture and forestry are important components of Montserrat's culture and economy. As the north is developed, these activities need to be defined, including the types of land practices that are best suited to northern areas. Activities may need to include replanting parts of the north (once densely forested) to meet local needs.
• Natural history, strong culture, and unspoiled habitats are the mainstays of ecotourism; Montserrat still has these in abundance. Ecotourism that includes a research component can benefit Montserrat. Ecotourism must be sustainable and planning for it needs to take place now, within the planning framework , and not as an afterthought.
• Montserrat has a well-educated population with strong ties to the natural resource base. As more people leave, this nature-based education and talent will disappear. It cannot be replaced. Development should enhance opportunities for people based on their talents.
• These recommendations can be carried out within an overall framework. Economic and social hardship have been the major short-term consequences of the volcano. Human suffering needs to be alleviated: New developments must be sustainable. Development must be in keeping with the natural and cultural legacy of Montserrat, and must provide for the long term viability of the island,.

SEI is committed to maintenance of the human and natural communities of Montserrat. We strongly support sustainable and viable development strategies.

© 2000 Sustainable Ecosystems Institute comments: sei@sei.org