The Caribbean islands are among the world’s most vulnerable when it comes to the effects of climate change. With increasing frequency of more powerful and intense hurricanes, flooding, wind damage and rising sea levels are all predicted to intensify. Medical facilities, power plants, freshwater sources, roads, houses and schools are also facing increasing threats. It is essential that islands cooperate with one another to prepare for inevitable natural disasters and find ways to minimize the impacts they will experience. Evidence shows that key ecosystems, like coral reefs and mangroves, can help reduce these risks while enhancing sustainable economic development. It is essential that researchers from within and outside the region be involved in exploring the effects of climate change and develop new and effective ways to adapt. Now an action plan has been developed by Caribbean countries and territories that provides a roadmap for coping with climate change in the region.