The Marine Geology Unit was formed in November 2000 as an informal unit fo the Department of Geography and Geology to carry out a compilation of geological and geophysical activities in Jamaica's Exclusive Economic Zone.

THE MISSION OF THE MGU IS TO APPLY RESEARCH ON COASTAL PROCESSES AND LANDFORMS FOR THE BENEFIT OF THOSE LIVING IN AND UTILIZING THE COASTAL ZONE.

The main thrust of the Unit's programme is the application of its research expertise to the examination of processes leading to coastline changes, particularly in light of present concerns of climate change and sea level rise. The results of these investigations are applied to identifying site specific hazards of the Jamaican coastline, coastal vulnerability, and the impact on coastal communities.