Natural hazards such as hurricanes, floods, and sea-level rise have devastated Caribbean communities and pose a clear and present threat to the sustainable development of the region. High winds and flooding associated with hurricanes, tropical storms and trough systems can cause extensive damage to infrastructure, residential and commercial buildings, and can interfere with local businesses’ operations. These hazards can directly cause injury or death, leading to profound psychological and social distress. Loss of livelihoods, displacement, and disruptions of public services can cause additional social disruption. Unfortunately, vulnerable communities—those who may not have the financial resources and infrastructure to evacuate, prepare, or cope with disasters—can be particularly hard-hit by natural hazards. Natural hazards can have long-lasting negative impacts on the environment in thesecommunities. Hurricanes can erode coastal areas, destroy habitats and ecosystems, damage coral reefs, and change ocean salinity and circulation. Floods can also cause destruction of vegetation and wildlife, profoundly impact habitat structure, and even cause species extinctions. Sea-level rise leads to increased coastal erosion, saltwater intrusion, and habitat destruction. This paper investigates the concept and practice of sustainable and resilient infrastructure systems development throughout the islands, as well as the continental states that are washed by the Caribbean Sea. The paper will examine housing and infrastructure challenges, resilience policies and strategies, and the potential for housing and infrastructure development to increase resilience and sustainability in thesecommunities. The study will illustrate an extensive research review and assessment of current initiatives, projects and policy, and show how resilient housing and sustainable infrastructure development can contribute to an enhanced quality of life in the Caribbean and Americas, while sustaining positive economic returns on investments and environmental regeneration and preservation. Findings from illustrative successful initiatives will demonstrate the demand for and benefits of sustainable and resilient infrastructure approaches for communities faced with multiple sea level rise and coastal hazards.
