Caribbean Coast Of Colombia Research Articles

Relationship between Positive Body Image,Body Dissatisfaction, Physical Activity, Internalization of Beauty Ideals, and Body Mass Index in Adolescents from the Colombian Caribbean Coast.

Evaluar la Imagen Corporal Positiva (ICP) y su relación con la apreciación corporal, las actitudes corporales masculinas, los desórdenes alimenticios, las actitudes hacia la apariencia y el índice de masa corporal (IMC) en adolescentes de la Costa Caribe colombiana. Se realizó un estudio cuantitativo de corte transversal, donde la muestra estuvo conformada por 300 jóvenes entre los 13 y los 19 años. (M=16,44; DE= 1,82), 151 eran mujeres (50.3%) y 149 eran hombres (49.7%). El Índice De Masa Corporal (IMC) medio de los participantes fue 21,86 (DE = 3.65) el cual se encuentra en el rango normal. Todos los participantes eran estudiantes (de colegio y universitarios) de la ciudad de Barranquilla. Los mayores Índice de Masa Corporal (IMC) están relacionados con menor apreciación corporal, menor respeto por el propio cuerpo y menor resistencia a la presión de los medios. Además, aquellos adolescentes que realizaban una mayor actividad física reportaron una mejor imagen corporal. Además, una mayor Imagen Corporal Positiva se relaciona con la disminución de trastornos alimentarios y con la disminución de la influencia de las redes sociales. En todas las dimensiones analizadas podemos apreciar claramente el impacto beneficioso para el ser humano que tiene esta apreciación, y la necesidad de investigar más esta variable de la psicología en el contexto Latinoamericano para cubrir este vacío que actualmente existe en la investigación.

Shell-bearing Bivalvia and Gastropoda from a rocky shore in the Central Caribbean of Colombia

This study documents the natural accumulation of mollusk shells on an elevated rocky shore carved into the calcareous rocks of the La Popa formation at Punta Roca (Atlántico), covering an estimated area of 0.35 km2. Hydrodynamic transport and differential exposure to environmental conditions are the primary factors contributing to shell deposition. A total of 58 mollusk species were identified, including 30 bivalves and 28 gastropods. The Veneridae was the most prominent, with the highest number of species (7) and shells comprising 64.22 % of the total. Key species contributing to the accumulation include the bivalves Anomalocardia cf. flexuosa, Polymesoda cf. arctata, Leukoma pectorina, Tivela mactroides, Crassostrea rhizophorae, and the gastropod Vitta virginea. These species are primarily characteristic of estuarine environments, with the exception of T. mactroides. Notably, the first recorded occurrence of the non-native gastropod Naria turdus (Cypraeidae) on the Colombian Caribbean coast was documented. The accumulations exhibit varying degrees of abrasion, fragmentation, encrustation, and bioerosion, with some shells appearing almost intact, indicating differences in origin and transport mechanisms. The extraction of shells for ornamental purposes poses a significant challenge to this natural accumulation.

Evaluating ecological risks and metal bioavailability in post-dredging sediments of a wetland affected by artisanal gold mining

The evaluation of metal contamination, ecological risk, bioavailability, and the environmental dredging depth in sediments of two Colombian riverine systems impacted by artisanal gold mining and agricultural activities, was conducted following dredging processes. Results indicated significant contamination by Cd and Pb before dredging, based on the contamination factor (CF) and the geoaccumulation index (Igeo). Additionally, Cu and Hg were found to cause adverse biological effects according to sediment quality guidelines. Post-dredging, surface sediments exhibited a moderate ecological risk index (RI, 150–300), primarily due to increased contamination by Hg, Pb, and Cd. To mitigate this ecological risk (RI < 150), the environmental dredging depth needed to exceed 20 cm for all metals. On average, the bioavailable fraction increased 2.3 times within two months after dredging. However, the low environmental risk (%F1 = 1–10) calculated using risk assessment codes (RAC) indicates a potential risk due to metals entering the water column and bioaccumulating in organisms. These findings provide insights into the dynamics of metals and the impact of dredging activities on sediments in the Colombian Caribbean coast affected by various anthropogenic activities. The research underscores the importance of integrating sustainable practices in mining and agriculture to protect the ecological integrity of these riverine systems.

The utilization of renewable energy and the economic potential of offshore wind power supported by digital finance

Colombia is well-positioned for the development of sustainable energy due to its abundance of natural resources, which include water, wind, and sun. Regulating the safe and sustainable use of offshore wind energy, which is considered non-conventional, is lacking in the nation, nonetheless. The development of offshore wind technology in Colombia shows potential to meet energy needs during dry hydrological conditions and El Niño/Southern Oscillation events when the hydroelectric system power supply is low. This study examines global initiatives that have encouraged nations to develop plans for cutting their CO2 emissions, stressing both their successes and shortcomings in putting offshore wind technology into practice. An examination of Colombia's renewable energy administrative framework finds a lack of data required to carry out offshore wind projects. Furthermore, a review of previous research on marine energy emphasizes how important it is to expand our knowledge of offshore wind generation. Although the majority of local renewable energy projects concentrate on terrestrial sources, an analysis of wind speed and wind power density in Colombia at different altitudes shows promising magnitudes and good trends.Digital finance plays a crucial role in this context by providing innovative funding mechanisms, enhancing financial accessibility, and reducing investment risks through improved financial technologies. These advancements support the mobilization of capital necessary for the development and expansion of offshore wind energy projects.As a result, the technical, economic, administrative, and legal data pertinent to renewable energy in Colombia is compiled in this study. It proposes to provide information to stakeholders involved in decision-making processes and promotes the possible installation of offshore wind farms in regions close to Colombia's Caribbean coast. Because of its plentiful resources, Colombia offers a great chance to implement offshore wind energy technology, which will lessen dependency on fossil fuels and provide a backup energy source in case of supply shortages. The integration of digital finance is key to unlocking the economic potential of these projects, ensuring sustainable and scalable energy solutions for the future.

Unraveling the decadal–scale coastal evolution and hazards of the Salamanca Barrier (Colombia)

This study aims to characterize the primary coastal hazards operating at both medium-term and episodic scales along the Salamanca barrier in the Caribbean coast of Colombia. On a medium-term (decadal) scale, we analyzed satellite images spanning the past 40 years to characterize shoreline evolution, the associated coastal sediment budget and the responsible sediment transport pattern. At this scale, the barrier has experienced intense shoreline retreat, with erosion rates gradually decreasing over time. For the last analyzed period, 2009–2019, maximum erosion rates have exceeded −20 m/yr. This erosion is primarily driven by a net longshore sediment transport pattern directed towards the west, induced by a wave climate concentrated in a narrow direction arc from the NE. Peak transport rates, reaching an order of magnitude of 106 m3/yr, have been estimated for the westernmost (more exposed) part of the barrier. At an episodic scale, we estimated hazards by evaluating storm-induced erosion and flooding potential. The eastern zone of the barrier showed greater susceptibility to overwash, while potential erosion was only relevant in the western and central sectors. Notably, the most impactful events were associated with waves from directions of 30 and 40°. The cumulative contribution of hazards operating at both scales contribute to various challenges affecting infrastructures, ecosystems, and communities along the Salamanca barrier.

DNA methylation is associated with hair trace elements in female adolescents from two vulnerable populations in the Colombian Caribbean.

Exposure to trace elements (TEs) influences DNA methylation patterns, which may be associated with disease development. Vulnerable populations, such as adolescents undergoing maturity, are susceptible to the effects of TE exposure. The aim of this study was to analyze the association of hair TE concentration with DNA methylation in a sample from female adolescents living in two communities in the Colombian Caribbean coast. Hair and blood samples were obtained from 45 females, between 13 and 16 years of age. Seventeen TEs were quantified in hair samples. DNA methylation was measured in leukocytes using the Infinium MethylationEPIC BeadChip. Linear models were employed to identify differentially methylated positions (DMPs) adjusting for age, body mass index, mother's education, and cell type composition. Among the tested elements, vanadium, chromium, nickel, copper, zinc, yttrium, tin, and barium were significantly associated with DMPs (false discovery rate < 0.05), registering 225, 1, 2, 184, 1, 209 189, and 104 hits, respectively. Most of the DMPs were positively associated with TEs and located in open sea regions. The greatest number of DMPs was annotated to the HOXA3 and FOXO3 genes, related to regulation of gene expression and oxidative stress, respectively. These findings suggest that DNA methylation may be involved in linking exposure to TEs among female adolescents to downstream health risks.

Intellectual capital measurement in higher education institutions context from the professors perspective

Intellectual capital has aroused growing interest in higher education; however, one area for improvement in its study is how to measure it adequately. Therefore, it is necessary to have instruments based on current models of intellectual capital. This study aims to design and validate an intellectual capital measurement scale in accredited higher education institutions (HEIs) from the perspective of professors. The study was instrumental because a measurement scale was developed. The sample consisted of 341 professors from six accredited HEIs on the Colombian Caribbean Coast. The statistical analysis consisted of three stages: item analysis, collection of validity evidence based on the internal structure and the relationship with other variables, and reliability analysis using the internal consistency method. The scale’s internal structure corroborated intellectual capital composition based on human, structural, and relational components. Regarding convergent evidence, all variables possess this source of validity evidence. Reliability levels were also good. Previously, an instrument has yet to be developed those measures intellectual capital in HEIs from the perspective of professors. This study provides a scale that focuses on the characteristics of this stakeholder and is based on an innovative model of intellectual capital composed of human, structural, and relational capital. The theoretical contribution of the study lies in developing a test based on two current models of intellectual capital: the Intellectus model and the Balanced Scorecard model. It also contributes to practice by providing a tool for measuring intellectual capital that allows its adequate management, improvement, and decision-making within higher education.

High frequency of alpha7-HPV in Colombian Caribbean coast women: cervical cancer screening analysis

SUMMARYBackgroundCervical cancer (CC) is a significant global public health concern, particularly in developing countries such as Colombia. The main risk factor involves high-risk HPV types (HR-HPV) infection, coupled with population-specific variables. The Caribbean region in Colombia lacks research on HR-HPV-type frequencies. Therefore, this study aims to establish the prevalence of type-specific HR-HPV and its association with sociodemographic factors among women undergoing cervical cytology screening.MethodsA cross-sectional study involving voluntary women who provided informed consent and completed a questionnaire capturing sociodemographic, clinical, and sexual behavior information was conducted. All participants underwent cervical cytology and molecular analysis. Generic HPV detection employed three simultaneous PCRs (GP5+/6+, MY09/11, and PU1R/2 M), and positive samples were genotyped using the Optiplex HPV Genotyping kit. The analysis encompassed the 12 types of high-risk HPV (HR-HPV-16,-18,-31,-33,-35,-39,-45,-51,-52,-56,-58, and − 59). Frequencies were reported based on geographic subregions within the Córdoba department, and disparities were made between single and multiple infections. Sociodemographic and clinical variables were subjected to ordinal logistic regression, with statistical significance at a p-value < 0.05. The statistical analyses utilized STATA 14® and R-Core Team-software.ResultsWe included 450 women, mean age 40 (SD\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\pm$$\\end{document}11.44). PCR analysis revealed 43% HPV-positive (n=192). GP5+/6+ detected the most positives at 26% (n=119), followed by PU1R/2 M at 22% (n = 100) and MY09/11 at 15% (n=69). Multiple infections occurred in 87.3% (n=142), primarily 2 to 4 types (47.37%, n=90). Dominant types were HPV-18 (15.6%, n=61), HPV-16 (14.9%, n=58), HPV-31 (13.0%, n = 51), and HPV-45 (11.5%, n=45). Logistic regression identified age above 60 as a risk for concurrent multiple types (OR=6.10; 95% CI 1.18–31.63). Menopause was protective (OR=0.31; 95% CI 0.11–0.89).ConclusionsOur study reveals a notable prevalence of multiple (2–4) high-risk HPV infections among adult women engaged in CC detection initiatives. Predominantly, α7 species constitute the prevalent HR-viral types, with the Medio Sinú subregion showing elevated prevalence. Menopausal status confers protection against diverse HR-HPV infections. Nevertheless, advancing age, particularly beyond 60 years, is linked to an increased susceptibility to simultaneous infections by multiple HPV-types.

Genetic connectivity of the common octopus (Octopus insularis) along the southwestern Caribbean

AbstractOctopus insularis is a shallow‐water octopus distributed throughout the western Atlantic, the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean. To evaluate its phylogeographic pattern, mitochondrial markers (16S rRNA and COIII) and genome‐wide nuclear markers (SNP's) were analyzed in individuals from artisanal fishing in different locations of the Colombian Caribbean coast. Mitochondrial analyzes displayed novel haplotypes (16S = H2, H3 and H4; COIII = H2–H7) and haplotypes shared with distant geographic areas (16S = H1 COIII = H1). The COIII gene did not show genetic differentiation between the analyzed localities, while the 16S gene showed significant differences between Santa Marta and Isla Fuerte. COIII's demographic analysis indicated that the species' effective population size has remained constant. Inferences were made from next‐generation genomic data with restriction site‐associated DNA (ddRAD‐seq) and 6769 polymorphic loci. The pairwise FST test indicated that there are low but significant differences between localities; however, the general molecular analysis of variance (AMOVA) and the principal coordinate analysis showed a lack of spatial structure in the populations analyzed. The Mantel test found no correlation between genetic distance and geographic distance, and the genetic structure analyses showed the presence of one genetic stock. The information obtained in this study indicates the genetic connectivity of O. insularis in the southwestern Caribbean, the absence of putative biogeographic barriers that affect its gene flow, and the crucial role played by life history strategies (planktonic paralarvae) and oceanographic factors to define the current distribution of its genetic diversity in this region.

Technologies to embrace the sun: solarpunk-based project as an exploration for a just energy transition

The national implementation of electricity generation projects directly threatens the livelihoods of local and Indigenous communities in Latin America. Therefore, it is crucial to search for solutions to energy supply considering local needs and cosmologies. This article focuses on micro-energy production in rural settlements on the Colombian Caribbean coast. The aim is to provide insights into the relationship between energy, technology, and ancestrality through the lens of solarpunk storytelling. To explore this theme, we present the «tech to embrace the sun» initiative as a case study to co-design and imagine desirable futures by the local community of Selvatorium, in La Guajira. The results consist of the development of seven future ancestral stories co-written by community members and guests, two guides to build two prototypes, and a fanzine. The project concludes with empirical and theoretical insights for development studies about sustainable energy futures.

Bioprospecting of extremophilic perchlorate-reducing bacteria: report of promising Bacillus spp. isolated from sediments of the bay of Cartagena, Colombia

Three extremophile bacterial strains (BBCOL-009, BBCOL-014 and BBCOL-015), capable of degrading high concentrations of perchlorate at a range of pH (6.5 to 10.0), were isolated from Colombian Caribbean Coast sediments. Morphological features included Gram negative strain bacilli with sizes averaged of 1.75 × 0.95, 2.32 × 0.65 and 3.08 × 0.70 μm, respectively. The reported strains tolerate a wide range of pH (6.5 to 10.0); concentrations of NaCl (3.5 to 7.5% w/v) and KClO4− (250 to 10000 mg/L), reduction of KClO4− from 10 to 25%. LB broth with NaCl (3.5–30% w/v) and KClO4ˉ (250-10000 mg/L) were used in independent trials to evaluate susceptibility to salinity and perchlorate, respectively. Isolates increased their biomass at 7.5 % (w/v) NaCl with optimal development at 3.5 % NaCl. Subsequently, ClO4ˉ reduction was assessed using LB medium with 3.5% NaCl and 10000 mg/L ClO4ˉ. BBCOL-009, BBCOL-014 and BBCOL-015 achieved 10%, 17%, and 25% reduction of ClO4ˉ, respectively. The 16 S rRNA gene sequence grouped them as Bacillus flexus T6186-2, Bacillus marisflavi TF-11 (T), and Bacillus vietnamensis 15 − 1 (T) respectively, with < 97.5% homology. In addition, antimicrobial resistance to ertapenem, vancomycine, amoxicillin clavulanate, penicillin, and erythromycin was present in all the isolates, indicating their high adaptability to stressful environments. The isolated strains from marine sediments in Cartagena Bay, Colombia are suitable candidates to reduce perchlorate contamination in different environments. Although the primary focus of the study of perchlorate-reducing and resistant bacteria is in the ecological and agricultural realms, from an astrobiological perspective, perchlorate-resistant bacteria serve as models for astrobiological investigations.

A Simple Approach to the Risk Assessment of Strategic Infrastructure on the Colombian Caribbean Coast

A Simple Approach to the Risk Assessment of Strategic Infrastructure on the Colombian Caribbean Coast

Caracterización de pacientes con retinoblastoma en un centro de referencia de la costa norte de Colombia

Purpose: The purpose of the following study was to describe the sociodemographic, clini-cal, and therapeutic characteristics of patients with retinoblastoma (RB), the most common intraocular tumor in children, receiving medical care in an eyecare institution in the Carib-bean region of Colombia.Methods: A case series between 2016 and 2021 was carried out. Eyes of patients with RB, receiving medical care in a single health care institution, and in compliance with the esta-blished follow-up protocol, were included. Descriptive analyzes of relevant variables were performed.99Characterization of Retinoblastoma Patients in a Referral Center on the Colombian North CoastAna María Álvarez Castillo, Cesar Atencia Niño,Diana Cifuentes Zapata, Katia Gutiérrez Brun,Jaime Moreno Chaparro, Javier Antonio Amaya Nieto, Javier Vásquez RamírezVol. 40(1), 2024, 97-108Barranquilla (Col.) Results: In this study, a totalof 21 eyes of 16 patients were examined. The average age at the time of diagnosis was 17.7 months, and 50% of children were male. Using the Interna-tional Classification for Intraocular Retinoblastoma, 42.9% of the total cases were classi-fied as group D. Out of the 21 cases, 71.4% went into total remission without the necessity for enucleation, and the most common treatment was chemotherapy, using Melphalan® via intraarterial or intravitreal administration.Conclusion: Specific findings of patients with RB in the Caribbean Coast of Colombia were identified. These findings imply that, despite the obstacles to healthcare access, an early diagnosis and a treatment plan using intraarterial chemotherapy may provide a satisfac-tory clinical outcome (remission).

Assessing erosion and sediment removal in the Isla Salamanca coastal barrier: implications for the Barranquilla-Ciénaga highway and coastal marine biodiversity – Colombia

The Isla Salamanca coastal barrier on the Colombian Caribbean coast faces significant erosion, driven by climate change-induced, sea level rise and human activities such as highway construction. The Barranquilla-Ciénaga highway, particularly at kilometers 19 and 29, is at risk, with severe consequences for the region’s socio-economic and environmental well-being. Human interventions like the highway construction and seawall installations have disrupted the natural coastal dynamics, leading to increased erosion rates. The study, conducted between 2004 and 2021, reveals that the Isla Salamanca coastal barrier is experiencing substantial transgression, with erosion rates peaking at -16.1 m·yr− 1. The highway protection measures, with seawall construction, have proven inadequate, exacerbating erosion downstream. The mangrove loss due to hydrological changes and increased salinity is further threatening the fragile ecosystem. The research emphasizes the importance of considering biodiversity loss in the context of rapid erosion rates. The region, declared a Ramsar Site and Biosphere Reserve, hosts vital ecosystems like mangroves and dunes, whose destruction negatively impacts marine biodiversity. The study suggests the relocation of the highway, acknowledging the challenges of preserving wetlands and mangroves in the process. Balancing the need for infrastructure with ecological preservation is essential, and the study proposes comprehensive solutions, including shoreline management, ecosystem-based protection, and community involvement. The goal is to mitigate erosion’s adverse effects on biodiversity, habitat integrity, and the overall health of this ecologically sensitive region.

Holocene relative sea-level changes along the Caribbean and Pacific coasts of northwestern South America

Abstract Predicting coastal change depends upon our knowledge of postglacial relative sea-level variability, partly controlled by glacio-isostatic responses to ice-sheet melting. Here, we reconstruct the postglacial relative sea-level changes along the Caribbean and Pacific coasts of northwestern South America by numerically solving the sea-level equation with two scenarios of mantle viscosity: global standard average and high viscosity. Our results with the standard model (applicable to the Pacific coast) agree with earlier studies by indicating a mid-Northgrippian high stand of ~2 m. The high-viscosity simulation (relevant to the Caribbean coast) shows that the transition from far- to intermediate-field influence of the Laurentide Ice Sheet occurs between Manzanillo del Mar and the Gulf of Morrosquillo. South of this location, the Colombian Caribbean coast has exhibited a still stand with a nearly constant Holocene relative sea level. By analyzing our simulations considering sea-level indicators, we argue that tectonics is more prominent than previously assumed, especially along the Caribbean coast. This influence prevents a simplified view of regional relative sea-level changes on the northwestern South American coast.

Looking Behind the Stage in a Beach Paradise: Taganga, Colombia

Summary This case study looks beyond the clichés of paradise destinations in the Caribbean through an in-depth exploration of one of the beach destinations in this region. Extensive research performed on-site reveals the main junctures of the place’s history in the scheme of tourism development. The once isolated fishing community of Taganga on the Caribbean coast of Colombia is examined via participant and non-participant observation, and with semi-structured interviews that uncover the dynamics of negotiations and conflicts between the community, visitors, local authorities, and tourist industry. The changes in the nature of visitor markets are also reported as they relate to the actions of external and internal stakeholders. The effects of these changes over time are evident in the community’s shifting economy as well as in the destination’s environment. These mirror shifts at local, national, and international levels, and the authors will discuss whether they indicate advancing towards more value and higher experiential levels, as is posited by the literature. Information © The Authors 2024

A diagnosis of the artisanal fishery landings in the Colombian Caribbean coast by means of indicators

Landings of the artisanal fishery in the Colombian Caribbean from 2013 to 2021 were characterized by means of two indicators: the trophic level and the vulnerability to fishery landings. Indicators showed a statistically significant decreasing trend in vulnerability and trophic level, suggesting that the fishery is increasingly targeting species of low vulnerability and trophic level, thus moving down the food web. The overall pattern of indicators was not uniform in space. Incidence interaction of gears and species landed explained the trajectory of indicators at the scale of Departments. Fishing gears targeted different levels in the food web, with gillnets responsible for the bulk of landings. Compared to a previous study, the group of fish species supporting most of landings has changed towards species with lower vulnerability, i.e. resistant to fishing mortality due to their evolved life-history but still of predatory habits in general. A notable exception is Mugil incilis, a species with a low trophic level that has become third in importance of landings in the database.

Use of NIRS in Soil Properties Evaluation Related to Soil Salinity and Sodicity in Colombian Caribbean Coast

Use of NIRS in Soil Properties Evaluation Related to Soil Salinity and Sodicity in Colombian Caribbean Coast

Uncovering the Genetic and Molecular Features of Huntington's Disease in Northern Colombia.

Huntington's disease (HD) is a genetic disorder caused by a CAG trinucleotide expansion in the huntingtin (HTT) gene. Juan de Acosta, Atlántico, a city located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, is home to the world's second-largest HD pedigree. Here, we include 291 descendants of this pedigree with at least one family member with HD. Blood samples were collected, and genomic DNA was extracted. We quantified the HTT CAG expansion using an amplicon sequencing protocol. The genetic heterogeneity was measured as the ratio of the mosaicism allele's read peak and the slippage ratio of the allele's read peak from our sequence data. The statistical and bioinformatic analyses were performed with a significance threshold of p < 0.05. We found that the average HTT CAG repeat length in all participants was 21.91 (SD = 8.92). Of the 291 participants, 33 (11.3%, 18 females) had a positive molecular diagnosis for HD. Most affected individuals were adults, and the most common primary and secondary alleles were 17/7 (CAG/CCG) and 17/10 (CAG/CCG), respectively. The mosaicism increased with age in the participants with HD, while the slippage analyses revealed differences by the HD allele type only for the secondary allele. The slippage tended to increase with the HTT CAG repeat length in the participants with HD, but the increase was not statistically significant. This study analyzed the genetic and molecular features of 291 participants, including 33 with HD. We found that the mosaicism increased with age in the participants with HD, particularly for the secondary allele. The most common haplotype was 17/7_17/10. The slippage for the secondary allele varied by the HD allele type, but there was no significant difference in the slippage by sex. Our findings offer valuable insights into HD and could have implications for future research and clinical management.

An Analytic Hierarchy Process Based Approach for Evaluating Feasibility of Offshore Wind Farm on the Colombian Caribbean Coast

Planning a wind power generation project is intricate, considering the number of variables to be careful in the acceptable zone selection for its siting. One of the difficulties of developing a wind farm is finding the most satisfactory location to build it; this can take years of feasibility studies. The main objective of this research is to use the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to prioritize a group of criteria and sub-criteria as decision-making support for the selection of suitable areas in which implementing wind energy projects in the Colombian Caribbean Sea. The criteria to be applied in this study were selected based on the most recurrently employed criteria in other research papers and the experience of the authors. Thus, a hierarchical structure with 4 criteria (technical, environmental, social, and economic) and 14 subcriteria was implemented. All criteria were prioritized using the methodology proposed by AHP, for which 10 experts with experience in offshore wind projects were consulted, through a form designed with a matrix structure. The results allowed prioritizing a set of criteria necessary for offshore energy planning projects, in which the criteria of Protected Area (19.62%), Wind Speed (13.84%) and Military Areas (9.79%) were the most relevant.