When the Sea Rises and Water Costs More Than Cola
When the Sea Rises and Water Costs More Than Cola
November 17, 2024
It's Sunday. Yesterday, I didn’t write. It would’ve been more of the same, and I don’t want to repeat myself—or worse, become a bigger complainer. So, I decide to swim. But first, I grab a cup of coffee and drive past the Waaigat.
Yesterday, images circulated of the inner sea breaching its banks. It was undeniable. I’ve seen it happen a few times in recent years, but back then, it stopped at the edge, and even a meteorologist assured me it was “normal.” This time, the water lapped onto the street. Recently, I saw water on the quay in front of the governor’s palace.
It made me think of COP29, currently underway, though you’d barely know it. A few days ago, it was buried somewhere in the back pages of the newspaper. The focus now seems to be on financing the mitigation of the climate crisis. Our representatives are surely present, hopefully securing funds. But I have my doubts.
Soon, we’ll host our third—or is it fourth?—local climate summit, organized by the CCCP. Yet, between now and the last one, little has changed. At the previous conference, a map was presented showing which parts of Cura?ao would flood as sea levels rise. Naturally, the Waaigat was on it. But since then, I haven’t been able to find that map online. Implementation, it seems, is not our strength.
And as for the recent flooding? Not a word from any minister or authority. They’ll post a Facebook update for the smallest accomplishment, but when it comes to rising waters threatening our UNESCO heritage? Silence. Meanwhile, buildings around Waaigat are dealing with flooded basements, and there is no technology or strategy to keep them dry. Yet, my friends at Invest Willemstad dream investors will flock to restore our historic city.
After swimming, I reward myself with a Subway egg sandwich for the protein and settle down to write this piece. A glass of water costs four guilders, so no water for me—Cola is cheaper, but I won’t touch it. It baffles me that water isn’t free. In a world facing a climate crisis, shouldn’t we all be offering water to one another without hesitation? It could save lives.
Still, life is good. I enjoy my bubble of comfort and remind myself: if life gives you lemons, make lemonade.
Bon Siman!
Miguel Goede