Incorporating diverse voices in geoconservation in Portland, Jamaica

Abstract

Abstract Sites of geological relevance in East Portland are representative of the geological history of Jamaica and are important to elucidate Caribbean geotectonic evolution. Geological significance overlaps with natural and cultural heritage of international relevance, especially related to Maroon communities. In this region, the Jamaican highest peak rises steeply from sea level; the ocean is the focus of important conservation efforts. This study employs an interpretative phenomenological analysis to explore place attachment as experienced by East Portland residents. We engaged in conversations with 16 diverse community members through interviews and a focus group. Two dimensions of place attachment emerged: place identity and place dependence, showing that East Portland is home to people who depend on, identify with and are committed to protecting nature. We present an approach to mapping place attachment, which resulted in an important tool of analysis when overlapping with layers of information like geoheritage. The geological significance, natural and cultural richness and the connections the locals have with nature make East Portland an ideal prototype for geoconservation. This study also reveals that attachment to a place does not necessarily correspond to attachment to geoscientific significance; for common meanings to emerge, geoscientists and locals must collaborate.