Risk perception assessment of Sargassum blooms in Dominican Republic

Abstract

The Sargassum have become a cyclical phenomenon that generates ecological, economic, and social problems in the Caribbean. The situation becomes more serious in a context of voluntary acceptance of the problem, which generates difficulties regarding the behaviors to control it. This research addresses the phenomenon from the perspective of risk perception concerning Sargassum invasions in the Dominican Republic, using a tool that includes perceptual and behavioral questions. The results show an underestimation of the risk of Sargassum blooms attributed to its interpretation as a natural and inevitable phenomenon, with an insignificant effect. This underestimation does not notably affect the health or standard of living of the population involved but has not been sufficiently addressed by scientific institutions and the Dominican government. The alert about some erroneous beliefs regarding the phenomenon, as shown by these perceptions, can contribute to designing successful policies for the control and management of massive influx of Sargassum. This transformation can turn them from an environmental problem into an opportunity for sustainable development. Based on the risk analysis, actions are suggested to guarantee the sustainable management of Sargassum blooms in the Dominican Republic.