Environmental perceptions and action: villagers’ response to oil and gas drilling in the wetlands of rural Trinidad

Abstract

Purpose – Although research has shown that people in developing countries perceive environmental problems and have high levels of concern for the environment, their actions might not always reflect that concern. This study examines how villagers in rural wetland communities in Trinidad and Tobago perceive environmental issues related to oil and gas development that might impact their communities.

Methodology – One hundred and thirty villagers in three communities in and around the Nariva Swamp were interviewed to find out about perceptions of, support for oil and gas drilling policies, or opposition to the development of this resource.

Findings – The study found that respondents living closest to the swamp and those whose livelihoods depended on the wetlands were more likely than other respondents to perceive oil and gas drilling as dangerous and expressed greater opposition to it. Given that direct actions such as protests were not seen among the villagers, an analysis revealed that there are a number of indirect environmental actions that contribute to the protection of the Nariva Swamp. Villagers were seen as having pro-environmental actions such as sustainable farming and fishing practices, carpooling and nongovernmental activity.

Originality/value of paper – This study adds to the body of environmental research in the Caribbean particularly providing an understanding about rural people's perceptions of environmental issues.

Citation

Karen Baptiste, A. and Nordenstam, B.J. (2010), "Environmental perceptions and action: villagers’ response to oil and gas drilling in the wetlands of rural Trinidad", Taylor, D.E. (Ed.) Environment and Social Justice: An International Perspective (Research in Social Problems and Public Policy, Vol. 18), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 289-321. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0196-1152(2010)0000018012