The joint institute for Caribbean Climate Studies

Summary form only given. The Joint Institute for Caribbean Climate Studies (JICCS) is a newly-created organization funded jointly by the University of Puerto Rico, and various local and federal government agencies. It is housed at the University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez campus on the west coast of Puerto Rico. Its purpose is to provide an overarching infrastructure for searchers from university and federal agencies to work on problems concerning climate and environmental change in the Caribbean region, which is particularly vulnerable to changes in intensity and frequency of extreme weather events brought about by climate change. The mission of the JICCS will be fourfold. First, it will define the present climate and environment of the Caribbean. Second, it will predict the effects of future climate change scenarios on the region. Third, it will suggest ways by which the harmful effects of environmental change can be mitigated. Fourth, it will provide advice to policymakers on climate and environmental issues.