Overview
According to the Global Climate Risk Index 2021, Honduras is one of the most vulnerable countries worldwide to the effects of climate change. Throughout two decades, Honduras has been negatively affected by at least 65 (moderate and extreme) weather-related events generating annual economic losses equivalent to 1.8 percent of its GDP. Overall, the frequency of natural disasters is expected to increase as climate change intensifies.
Honduras’ high vulnerability to climate change is attributed to its high exposure to climate-related hazards, such as tropical storms, hurricanes, floods, landslides, and droughts, which devastate crops and critical infrastructure. In November 2020, two consecutive Hurricanes (Eta and Iota) impacted Honduran territory, affecting approximately 40 percent of the population and 80 percent of the agricultural sector. These two hydrometeorological events have resulted in significant critical infrastructure damage. As part of the infrastructure damage, potable water and sanitation services are particularly vulnerable. In addition, migration from rural areas and population growth have pushed settlements into hazard-prone zones that lack water management systems, resulting in frequent flooding, water scarcity, and the increase of climate-related hazards in various cities and towns throughout the country.
The negative impact of climate related events is concentrated in agriculture, water resources, ecosystems & fisheries, human health, and energy sectors. According to the Honduras Climate Fragility Risk Brief, the annual mean temperature in Honduras is projected to increase by 1 – 2.5 degrees Celsius by 2050.
Opportunities
Opportunities exist for U.S. technology companies that provide solutions for various disaster preparation, recovery, and reconstruction. Areas of focus include drought, environmental, floods, hurricanes, and wildfires. To address floods and high socio-ecological vulnerabilities in Honduras’ Sula Valley region, for example, local authorities are evaluating potential solutions and mitigation alternatives such as the construction of hydro-electric dams, dredging, reconstruction and maintenance of riverbanks. Best prospects are in the environmental remediation (including waste management) and water/wastewater sectors.
Resources
Trade Events: Natural Disaster Expo (March 6-7, 2024 / https://www.ndemiami.com/ )
Additional resources:
Ministry of Environment: (MIAMBIENTE); http://www.miambiente.gob.hn/
Emergency Preparedness Commission (COPECO)
U.S. Commercial Service Contact:
Name: Rossana Lobo
Position: Senior Commercial Specialist
Email: Rossana.Lobo@trade.gov