Catalysing climate-resilient investment through risk analytics in St. Lucia

This case study examines how St. Lucia is strengthening its enabling environment for climate-resilient investment through risk analytics, capacity building and risk-informed infrastructure planning. St. Lucia faces growing climate and disaster risks, including floods and landslides, which were highlighted during the 2013 Christmas Eve trough that caused significant damage and losses. Through World Bank and GFDRR technical assistance, a comprehensive urban risk analysis and flood mitigation pre-feasibility study were conducted in Castries and Anse La Raye. An assessment of urban hazards identified key infrastructure resilience actions, while stakeholder consultations identified gaps in flood risk management infrastructure and informed the design of a new investment financing project.

This case study reports that risk analytics are informing evidence-based investment decisions and strengthening national capacity to protect communities and critical infrastructure. The work identified priority flood mitigation investment options for Castries and Anse La Raye, as well as nature-based solutions including multipurpose retention basins and integrated bioswales. A capacity-building workshop strengthened local stakeholders’ knowledge and skills in climate risk management and nature-based solutions. The publication highlights that these activities are advancing investment readiness and supporting the design of the USD 25 million St. Lucia Urban Resilient Flood Investment Project.