New Islands Born in San Blas Amidst Climate Change Hysteria

San Blas: A Journey Through Life’s Cycles—From Loss to Rebirth

New Islands Born: The San Blas archipelago, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and cultural heritage, is undergoing a significant transformation shaped by both natural forces and the resilience of the Guna people. As climate change reshapes the region’s geography, new islands are appearing while others are at risk of disappearing beneath the waves. This ongoing change underscores the Guna community’s remarkable adaptability and their steadfast commitment to preserving their traditions amidst environmental challenges.

New Island Emerges in San Blas

Off the coast of Maoqui in the Dutch Cays, a new island is steadily emerging. Initially, it was a tiny speck of land measuring just 5 meters by 8 meters. Over the past decade, it has expanded to an impressive 40 meters by 80 meters. This natural process of island formation in Guna Yala is more than just a geological occurrence. It also carries profound cultural significance for the Guna people.

In Guna tradition, when a new island forms, the first family to plant coconut trees on it typically claims the right to inhabit it once it becomes fully habitable. This process, however, is neither quick nor straightforward. It can take years for the island to reach a stable size, where it no longer submerges during high tides. On this newly emerging island, Jose’s family, our longtime deckhand of the Salina 48 catamaran and dear Guna friend, has already planted between 30 and 40 coconut trees in neat rows. This act has firmly staked their claim to the land. Nonetheless, they must remain vigilant. If these trees die, their ownership of the land could be jeopardized.

The ultimate ownership decision lies with the General Guna Congress. As the family tends to their coconut trees, they must patiently wait for the island to stabilize. This process may take several more years. Their mindful approach highlights the Guna’s deep connection to their land. It also showcases their resilience in adapting to the gradual changes brought on by climate change.

Carti Sugdupu Relocation: A Community in Transition

While new islands are emerging, other areas of San Blas confront a far more alarming reality. For example, the island of Cartí Sugdupu, one of the 49 inhabited islands in the archipelago, faces the critical challenge of overcrowding. With a population exceeding 1,000 people packed into an area no larger than five football fields, the island’s future hangs in the balance.

Contrary to media narratives, the relocation of Carti’s residents to the mainland is largely driven by overpopulation and a critical lack of space on the island. There is simply no room left for younger generations to build their homes. This is the undeniable reality, rather than the exaggerated headlines some outlets promote. Additionally, while some islands may indeed submerge in the distant future, new islands are continuously forming, showcasing the natural cycle of change in San Blas.

The Panamanian government has recognized the pressing need to relocate the residents of Carti Sugdupu. However, both government and media narratives emphasize the islands’ potential to sink as the primary justification for this action. The true issue lies in overpopulation and the critical shortage of space. The island, standing only 50 cm to 1 meter above sea level, is predicted to submerge within the coming decades. In response, the government has launched a relocation plan, establishing a new mainland settlement called Nuevo Carti, or Isber Yala (“Nispero tree”).

Our Perspective on the Relocation Effort

Having spent over 13 years in Guna Yala, we have gained a deep understanding of the region’s challenges. This perspective makes us question why Panamanian authorities prioritize a hypothetical scenario that may not occur for decades. Instead, their efforts should address the urgent and undeniable need to create more space for younger families to build homes.

The relocation brings significant challenges for the Guna community. Many depend on fishing as their primary livelihood, but the new settlement, located 30 minutes from the sea, poses a logistical hurdle. This distance makes it difficult for them to maintain their vital connection to their traditional way of life. From our firsthand experience and close collaboration with the Guna, we understand that this concern is very real. Although fish delivery arrangements have been implemented, the separation from their primary food source and income remains a pressing issue.

Nuevo Carti: A Modern Community with Traditional Touches

The new Nuevo Carti community provides each family with a 300 m² plot and a modern 49 m² home. It also offers essential amenities such as a water well, electricity, a sports park, a rainwater drainage system, and community parks. Additionally, the Congress House and the celebration center, “Chicha House,” are included. These two structures are the only ones built in the traditional Guna style, using thatch and bamboo, while the family homes feature modern designs.

Cultural Considerations for Future Developments

In our view, the newly constructed community could have been developed with more sensitivity to the surrounding habitats. By integrating traditional Guna housing methods, which have long utilized thatch and bamboo, the development would better honor their culture. The current approach is concerning, as it undermines a key aspect of the Guna people’s cultural identity. Simply preserving the Congress House and the “Casa de la Chicha” to uphold Guna customs does not offer a comprehensive or respectful solution. We hope that future relocation efforts will be carried out with greater consideration for the rich heritage of this remarkable community.

Just a quick note: Carti is not typically included in our itineraries unless specifically requested by our guests. Instead, we focus on the exclusive outer islands, such as Bapurgana, along with other top destinations in San Blas.

Operation Dulup: Protecting the Future of Gardi Sugdub

The crisis in San Blas goes beyond Cartí Sugdupu. Gardi Sugdub, another island in the Carti group, is experiencing a similar challenge. Overpopulation on these islands has led the Panamanian government to launch “Operation Dulup” (Lobster), a relocation plan aimed at moving residents to the mainland. To date, this initiative has successfully relocated 1,350 people to Nuevo Carti.

The Future of San Blas: Striking a Balance

The story of San Blas mirrors life itself—marked by both loss and renewal. While some islands face the threat of disappearing beneath the waves, others are emerging. This highlights the natural cycles of life on our planet and offers hope for the future. The Guna people’s ability to adapt to these changes, all while maintaining their cultural integrity, is a testament to their resilience.

As climate change continues to reshape the Caribbean, San Blas stands as a powerful reminder of the need for sustainable practices. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of preserving cultural identities. The emergence of new islands amidst the hysteria of climate change symbolizes not just the physical rebirth of land. It also reflects the enduring and fantastic spirit of the Guna people.

In this ever-changing landscape, San Blas remains a rare and valuable part of our world. It is a place where tradition and change coexist, and where the natural world continually astonishes and inspires us.