Natural disasters have cost us $162 billion this year.

The first half of 2025 marks a new inflection point in the global climate risk landscape. According to leading professional services firm Aon, global insured losses from natural catastrophe events reached $100 billion, the second-highest 1H total on record, surpassed only by the $140 billion seen in 2011.

Largely driven by Los Angeles wildfires and a series of severe convective storms across the US, the losses highlight the growing financial impact of climate-related weather volatility alongside growing exposure in event-prone areas. The moment presents a powerful opportunity for the insurance industry to not only adapt to rising climate volatility, but to lead the way – driving innovation, resilience and proactive solutions that redefine how risk is understood and managed in a changing world.

The Global Heatwave Crisis: What It Means for the Next Generation

2024 ranked as the hottest year on record. Global average temperature reached 1.55°C above pre-industrial levels, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), and every year from 2015 to 2024 is now in the top ten hottest years ever recorded. Scientists also reported a sharp rise in humid heat days, which strain the body far more than dry heat. These are not statistical outliers. They are the new baseline conditions that today’s children will inherit.

The global heatwave crisis is no longer a future problem—it is here, and its impact is measurable across health, education, food systems, economies, and urban living. This article outlines what the crisis means for the next generation, using verified data from global agencies and peer-reviewed research, while mapping practical solutions for governments, schools, families, and businesses.

Europe confronts an unprecedented wildfire season – What can we do to prevent them?

Europe is experiencing what may become one of its most devastating wildfire seasons on record. Since the beginning of 2025, more than 450,000 ha have burned — this is more than double the area burnt in the same period last year, with severe impacts on landscapes, cities, and communities that have spread with alarming speed and severity.

From the Mediterranean to the Balkans, relentless heat and drought have fuelled fierce infernos. In Greece, Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Albania, Montenegro, Cyprus, the UK, France, Italy, and elsewhere, communities are grappling with waves of fire, displacement, and emergency response. While wildfires are common in the summer, this is more than a seasonal crisis. Climate-driven heatwaves, prolonged drought, high wind patterns, and abundant dry vegetation are converging to create a “new normal” of extreme wildfires.

Triple whammy: how 3 types of drought crippled southern Australia this year

Soaking mid-winter rains have brought some relief to drought-stricken farms and rural towns across southern Australia, but the crisis is not over yet. And there’s more to this challenging episode than you might think. As climate scientists, we see more than a single drought. Rather, it’s a trilogy of droughts. Across southern Australia over the past six months, three interconnected phases have unfolded in rapid succession: flash drought, green drought and fodder drought. Each phase brings its own challenges. Together, they reveal the complex and cascading nature of climate stress in southern Australia.

Why the UK needs more proactive heat risk management

When the UK recorded temperatures above 40°C for the first time in July 2022, it marked a clear signal: extreme heat is no longer a distant or unlikely threat. In 2025, the Met Office warned that, due to climate change, such heatwaves are now becoming the norm, underscoring the urgent need for preparedness. Yet, as our new study published in Earth’s Future shows, the country’s readiness to manage heat risk remains fragmented and reactive, focusing on immediate impacts rather than the complex interdependencies that amplify these risks.

IEFG BIG Series: Education x Climate = Philanthropy²

How can education and climate funders collaborate more strategically, sharing insights, evidence, and approaches, to deepen understanding and strengthen the critical connections between climate change and education?

In this episode of the BIG Series, we bring together funders from both sectors who are actively engaging at the nexus of climate and education, they will share with you concrete examples of successful collaboration. The discussion will explore how aligned funding strategies and shared learning can catalyze more effective, long-term collaboration, ultimately advancing solutions that respond to both climate and education challenges in an integrated way.

Weathering the storm

Most of Victoria’s infrastructure was not built for more frequent and severe weather. This means infrastructure, like roads and powerlines, is exposed to greater damage from wild storms, bushfires and floods.

This research can help governments decide how and where to invest in adapting infrastructure. It shows how to assess the risks from extreme weather and compare different solutions to better protect infrastructure assets. Extreme weather damage already costs Victoria about $2.7 billion a year. Without action to better protect infrastructure, costs will grow.

Challenges and opportunities in climate risk assessment: future directions for assessing complex climate risks

This systematic literature review examines the latest developments in Climate Risk Assessment (CRA), focusing on how climate risks are framed and assessed. It explores advancements, ongoing challenges, and emerging opportunities to guide future generations of CRAs. Key findings highlight a more nuanced risk framework that incorporates climate responses, modulating the three risk determinants (exposure, vulnerability, and hazards), as outlined in the latest IPCC assessment. The state-of-the-art concentrates on the temporal and spatial characteristics of hazards, while exposure and vulnerability are increasingly understood as dynamic concepts influenced by socioeconomic changes. Recent developments, such as multi-hazard approaches, risk tolerance integration, and the concept of Climatic Impact-Drivers (CID), provide new perspectives on assessing climate risks.

Enhancing water sector resilience through Nature-based Solutions in South Asia

This report outlines five strategic directions for national governments to prioritise in order to accelerate the mainstreaming and scaling up of NbS, thereby strengthening water resilience for communities and economic sectors. South Asia is among the world’s most climate-vulnerable regions, with countries like Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan consistently ranking among the top ten most affected nations in the Global Climate Risk Index. Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are emerging as a promising and holistic approach to addressing the impacts of climate change on water resources.

Debating Disaster Risk: Ethical Dilemmas in the Era of Climate Change

Dealing with the risks of climate change and disaster is a political process. It produces winners and losers, mobility and permanence, radical change and continuity, relief and suffering. For some, it ultimately leads to life or death. Yet consultants, academics, humanitarian agents, and politicians often simply propose well-intentioned ideas—resilience, sustainability, community participation, emergency shelter, green development—while failing to perceive the blind spots and unintended consequences of such approaches.

Debating Disaster Risk brings together leading global experts to explore the controversies that emerge—and the tough decisions that must be made—when cities, people, and the environment are at risk. Scholars and practitioners discuss the challenges of reducing vulnerability and rebuilding after destruction in an accessible and lively debate format, with commentary by researchers, students, and development workers from across the world. They emphasize the ethical consequences of decisions about how cities and communities should prepare for and react to disasters, considering issues such as housing, environmental protection, urban development, and infrastructure recovery.

Register Now: Webinar – Addressing Urban Heat Islands for Equitable Climate Resilience

Cities, with their concrete landscapes and limited green cover, can become significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas, intensifying health risks, energy demands, and social vulnerabilities. These impacts are often concentrated in low-income or marginalized communities, exacerbating existing inequalities.

This webinar will explore how data, governance, and climate finance can converge to combat urban heat. Through high-resolution environmental data and community-level assessments, cities can identify hotspots and prioritize interventions such as nature-based solutions, reflective infrastructure, and improved urban planning. The discussion will highlight the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration and equitable financing mechanisms to ensure that adaptation efforts serve all urban residents—especially the most vulnerable.

Date: 2nd September 2025.
Time: 09:00-10:00 CEST / 07:00-08:00 UTC

World Water Week 2025: Water for Climate Action

World Water Week 2025, on 24 – 28 August, will focus on innovation at a time of unprecedented changes. Human activities have triggered a global water crisis where we have for the first time crossed the safe planetary boundary for water. Yet this is only one of multiple interlinked crises; in addition, we must simultaneously tackle climate change, biodiversity loss, and poverty. Water is at the core of all these threats, which also means that it is one of the most powerful tools to find solutions.

From Strategy to Structure: Leveraging ReMA and BRI for Organizational and Asset-Level Resilience

In the face of escalating climate and disaster risks, both the public and private sectors are under growing pressure to assess and strengthen their resilience. The UNDRR-supported Corporate Chief Resilience Officers (CCRO) Network and the International Finance Corporation (IFC)—through its Green and Resilient Buildings team—are joining forces to showcase two complementary tools that help organizations and developers assess and advance their resilience journey: Building Resilience Index (BRI): A free, science-based, self-assessment tool developed by IFC to evaluate and benchmark the resilience of individual buildings based on hazard exposure and design features. Resilience Maturity Assessment (ReMA): A qualitative and strategic tool designed to help organizations (including private sector companies, utilities, and others) understand their current resilience maturity and identify pathways for improvement. Together, these tools form a comprehensive roadmap: ReMA identifies strategic and organizational gaps, while BRI helps implement tangible improvements at the asset level.

CODATA Data Ethics Working Group Policy Briefs Available for Comment and Feedback

The CODATA Working Group on Data Ethics (now a Task Group), has produced three policy briefings on important topics in relation to data ethics.  At least two more are in the pipeline. The policy briefings respond to the UNESCO Recommendation on Open Science.  They start from the premise that the Recommendation, in its statements of values and principles, and its other argumentation, is a document with a significant ethical orientation.  The policy briefings, therefore, seek to augment the Recommendation and add further considerations and policy guidance for ethical issues in relation to data. The first three Policy Briefs are available for comment

Webinar on Understanding Short-Lived Climate Forcers for Improved Air Quality and Climate information

The webinar aims to provide ECRs with an overview of short-lived climate forcers (SLCFs), their sources, trends, mitigation strategies, and the broad climate and air quality benefits of targeting their reduction.

High-level launch: from heatwaves to cyber threats – understanding today’s hazards

The UNDRR–ISC Hazard Information Profiles (HIPs) provide a comprehensive, science-based overview of 281 hazards relevant to disaster risk reduction – from floods and wildfires to pandemics and cyber threats. This 2025 edition reflects a major shift toward a multi-hazard understanding of risk – recognizing that hazards often interact, cascade, or occur together in ways that intensify their impacts.  With contributions from over 330 experts across 150+ organizations, the HIPs are a trusted reference for governments, agencies, researchers, and practitioners worldwide.

Rising to the challenge: boosting adaptation and resilience for development

One in five people globally are at high risk from climate-related hazards-not just because they’re exposed to floods, heatwaves, cyclones, or droughts, but because poverty or limited access to essential services like clean water, electricity, social protection or financial services leaves them more vulnerable. But here’s the good news: the share of people at high risk from climate-related hazards has halved globally within a decade-from 2010 to 2021, demonstrating global progress and illustrating the benefits of development for resilience.

Europe has a heating strategy—now it needs one for cooling

For decades, European policymakers have defined energy security primarily as maintaining heat during winter. From strategic gas reserves to household subsidies, systemic, top-down responses have shaped the continent’s heating strategy.

But a new threat is emerging. The record-breaking heat wave sweeping across Europe is disrupting daily life, energy systems, and health services, exposing how unprepared Europe remains for summer extremes that are becoming longer, hotter, and more frequent.

New index ranks vulnerabilities of 188 nations to climate shocks

The Columbia Climate School, with support from The Rockefeller Foundation, has unveiled a novel index that integrates countries’ vulnerabilities to cyclones, floods, droughts, earthquakes, conflicts, and other hazards with their ability — due to availability and access to financing—to take prevention, recovery, and rebuilding actions. Illustrating current and future risk exposure scenarios of 188 nations, the Climate Finance (CliF) Vulnerability Index’s interactive dashboard identifies the 65 most at-risk, ‘Red Zone’ nations ― two-thirds of which are in Africa.

The overarching goal of the CliF Vulnerability Index is to promote more comprehensive risk assessment standards, target resources for various bands of vulnerability, and ultimately, inform how to more effectively reach communities facing various types of disaster and financial risks.

Duration of heat waves accelerating faster than global warming

New research finds that not only will climate change make heat waves hotter and longer, but the lengthening of heat waves will accelerate with each additional fraction of a degree of warming. Researchers found that the longest heat waves will see the greatest acceleration, and the frequency of the most extreme heat waves will increase the most. The duration of a heat wave exacerbates the risk to people, animals, agriculture and ecosystems.

Quantifying future local impacts of sea level rise on buildings and infrastructure

This paper presents a refined method for assessing the consequences of sea level rise on coastal communities by quantifying future impacts to buildings and infrastructure at a local level. While community resilience models typically address acute hazards, this work considers sea level rise and tides as a chronic hazard and its temporal impacts. Local sea level rise scenarios and tide predictions are combined to develop a time series of future water levels. The future water levels are mapped to the local topography to obtain the spatial extent of flooding.

Understanding the global subnational migration patterns driven by hydrological intrusion exposure

As climate change intensifies, water-related hazards like floods and droughts are playing a growing role in where people choose—or are forced—to live. While most studies look at migration trends at the national level, this research analyzes nearly 47,000 regions globally to understand how local exposure to hydrological risks drives human movement. Using satellite data, the study offers a detailed view of how hazards, exposure, and vulnerability interact to influence migration.

The findings show that direct exposure to water risks is a more powerful driver of migration than socioeconomic factors. However, not everyone can leave: economically disadvantaged and older populations are more likely to stay in high-risk areas or relocate only nearby. The research also reveals a complex, S-shaped migration pattern—initial resistance to move, followed by increasing departures, and eventually entrapment—shaped by a community’s resilience and ability to adapt.

Harnessing emerging technologies to address data gaps in natural disaster risk management: A conceptual framework and applications

Natural disasters are increasingly disrupting lives and economies across the globe. While new technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning hold great promise for improving disaster risk management (DRM), most existing studies focus only on specific tools or applications. Broader frameworks are rare, and there’s a key gap: how to handle the complex data challenges that come with using technology in disaster response.

This study introduces a new framework centered on data governance, tackling three major problems—lack of data, poor data quality, and limited use of data—across both the technical and human sides of risk management. Drawing on real-world examples, the paper shows how emerging technologies can help address these issues while also highlighting new risks that come with relying on advanced tech. The proposed model offers a practical, closed-loop approach for aligning data strategy with evolving disaster needs—moving beyond tech hype toward smarter, more resilient systems.

The future of poverty: Projecting the impact of climate change on global poverty through 2050

This paper presented global and regional projections of the potential poverty impacts of climate change through 2050, using a macro-to-micro simulation approach that links temperature-driven GDP shocks to household-level income and consumption data.

The findings suggest that under a high-emissions, limited-adaptation scenario (SSP5-RCP8.5), climate change could significantly slow progress in poverty reduction—particularly in regions with high baseline poverty, low adaptive capacity, and strong dependence on climate-sensitive sectors. The projections show that climate-induced income losses alone could push an additional 41 million people into extreme poverty by 2050.

Think Resilience Dialogue – Unlocking Potential: Resilience at the Core of LLDCs’ Sustainable Development

The Think Resilience Dialogues – co-hosted by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction and the Group of Friends for Disaster Risk Reduction – provide a space for Member States, as well as the United Nations system, invited experts and stakeholder groups, to informally discuss issues central to risk-informed decision-making with a view to mainstreaming a risk-informed approach across various intergovernmental fora.

This Think Resilience Dialogue will unpack the disaster risk reduction and resilience building elements of the Awaza Programme of Action and discuss key areas of work that are of particular significance to LLDCs, to support delegations as they prepare for the Third International Conference on LLDC3.

Nature-based Solutions to Global Challenges Foundation Course

This course is an introduction to Nature-based solutions (NbS) for professionals working in a range of sectors: staff at NGOs from the development and environmental sectors wanting to better understand the evidence from research and practice on how NbS can deliver multiple benefits and for whom, to enable them to hold governments to account; business executives wanting to better understand the risks and also the opportunities of investing in NbS; civil servants, regulators, and investors working to develop policies that can enable economic recovery whilst supporting net-zero and biodiversity goals; and philanthropists wanting to support activities that have positive outcomes for both people and nature.

The Workshop on Advancing Regional Climate Centres Products and Services to Meet Evolving Needs of Members

The workshop will focus on the key CSIS functions, including climate monitoring, climate prediction, and data, as well as the deployment of Climate Services Toolkit (CST).  It will also build on the lessons learned and good practices of RCCs emerging from the WMO contribution to ClimSA. The workshop will bring together experts from all RCCs in Africa-Caribbean-Pacific (ACP) regions supported under the ClimSA programme, as well as WMO Subject Matter Experts (SME) who will serve as resource persons.

Disaster risk reduction and resilience building in LLDCs: From commitment to action

This event will bring together government representatives from Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), UN agencies, and partners to explore strategies for implementing the disaster risk reduction and resilience-building priorities outlined in the new Programme of Action for LLDCs (2024–2034). With LLDCs facing heightened vulnerability to climate change and natural hazards, the event will focus on advancing risk-informed development through improved data, financing, technology transfer, resilient infrastructure, and regional cooperation. Discussions will identify concrete steps, good practices, and gaps to support LLDCs in building more resilient societies and achieving sustainable development.

Disaster Resilience in New Zealand: What we can learn from Australia.

As climate risks and disasters intensify and our infrastructure ages, ensuring the disaster resilience of critical infrastructure comes at a cost, but who should bear it?

At Infrastructure New Zealand’s Infrastructure Resilience Conference, James Russell, Sector Director – Finance and Insurance, spoke alongside colleagues Chris Perks, Sector Director – Transport and Delivery Partners, and Sean O’Meara (BDO). The panel discussed how Australia has approached the funding, financing, and governance of infrastructure resilience, drawing lessons for New Zealand.

Continuity planning empowers businesses to adapt, recover, and thrive

Businesses often struggle to recover from extreme weather events and natural hazards because they are not ready.

It has been estimated that 40% of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) do not reopen after a disaster, and many of those that do fail within a year. Businesses need to rethink their operating models before disruptions happen. Yet building disaster resilience does not always have to require a resource-intensive process or lead to something new.  It does not mean changing what a business does, but how it does it. This is where business continuity planning comes in.

New study shows rapid cloud loss contributing to record-breaking temperatures

Earth’s cloud cover is rapidly shrinking and contributing to record-breaking temperatures, according to new research involving the Monash-led Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for 21st Century Weather.

The research, led by the United States’ National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and published in Geophysical Research Letters, analysed satellite observations to find that between 1.5 and 3 per cent of the world’s storm cloud zones have been contracting each decade in the past 24 years.

Most finance ministries are concerned about climate change, but face barriers to including it in economic analyses and decisions

Most finance ministries are concerned about the physical impacts of climate change, and the implications of the transition away from fossil fuels, according to the results of a major survey published today (9 June 2025) by the Coalition of Finance Ministers for Climate Action.

However, finance ministries are finding it difficult to incorporate climate change into their economic analyses and face many challenges in taking it into account in their decision-making.

Drought in Europe June 2025

The objective of this brief is to provide an analytical overview of the current and projected drought conditions across central and northern Europe, northern Africa, the eastern Mediterranean, and the Middle East.

Some areas have been experiencing more severe alert drought conditions, particularly in the Mediterranean region, including south-eastern Spain, Cyprus, and most of North Africa, as well as central and south-eastern Türkiye and the Middle East. Alert conditions are rapidly intensifying in large areas of Ukraine and in the neighbouring countries, impacting crops and vegetation. Similar conditions are emerging in some areas of central Europe, the Baltic, and the UK.

Artificial Intelligence approaches for disaster risk management

This brief explores AI capabilities to support the EU’s prevention, preparedness, and resilience-building strategies, including the Preparedness Union Strategy. Efforts focus on enhancing information and image processing, advancing AI-driven risk assessment, and strengthening early warning systems.

Understanding social vulnerability for more effective climate strategies: Lessons from CCDRs in Southern and Eastern Africa

The goal of the report is to show how understanding social vulnerability can help policymakers to prioritize climate investments, design projects and programs to be more inclusive, and create tailored initiatives that make households and communities stronger and more resilient overall. It highlights how social vulnerability puts some people in harm’s way or prevents them from finding safety; limits their access to resources for adaptation; and constrains their agency and their voice. Poverty is a key factor, but so is social exclusion.

Multi-hazard early warning system – Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

This report presents the updates and describes the Multi-Hazard and Early Warning System component (MHEWS) of the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System (GDACS). This report focuses on the methodology underpinning the GDACS score employed across the seven hazards covered by the MHEWS.

GDACS events are produced automatically or semi-automatically for each hazard independently, using dedicated algorithms and the data available, with expert supervision. Every event on GDACS features a score and colour, based on the estimated risk that the given event poses to the exposed population and affected area

Online Workshop on Effective Public Governance and Finance for Disaster Risk Reduction, Local Resilience and Climate Action

The Workshop will introduce concepts and tools to help ensure effective governance, disaster-related data management, planning and finance mobilization for local-level disaster risk reduction (DRR), resilience and climate action. It will provide a comprehensive understanding of concepts, tools and approaches for risk understanding and loss and damage assessment, integrated planning, institutional strengthening across different levels of governance, as well as finance mechanisms to support disaster risk reduction and climate action, with particular focus on response to loss and damage.

[MCR2030 Webinar] Using MCR2030 Dashboard to Strengthen Engagement with Cities

The Making Cities Resilient 2030 (MCR2030) initiative is a global partnership that supports cities in strengthening disaster and climate resilience. A key tool available for its cities and partners is the MCR2030 dashboard, an online platform designed to help cities assess their resilience, share insights, and monitor progress along the resilience roadmap. The dashboard also facilitates city’s access to useful tools and resources provided by MCR2030 service providers which further support cities in achieving their resilience goals in line with broader global frameworks such as the Sendai Framework, the Paris Agreement, and the Sustainable Development Goals.

GCF 42^nd Board meeting

4th International Conference on Financing for Development 

The Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) provides a unique opportunity to reform financing at all levels, including to support reform of the international financial architecture and addressing financing challenges preventing the urgently needed investment push for the SDGs. FFD4 Conference will be held in FIBES Sevilla Exhibition and Conference Centre.

Water: The key to unlocking synergies between the Rio Conventions 

The management of water resources is intrinsically linked to challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and desertification. However, global efforts to address these issues remain fragmented, carried out through the separate frameworks of the three Rio Conventions. Each convention approaches water management from distinct perspectives—land degradation, climate resilience, and biodiversity conservation. The interconnected nature of these issues points to the critical need for a more coordinated strategy. Strengthened policy alignment, shared financing, and unified frameworks provide an opportunity to harmonize water management across these conventions.

The Worst Flood in 100 Years Just Hit South America 

South America has a long history of floods, but it is rare to see a flood of this magnitude. The continent’s diverse geography, from the mighty Amazon River to the Andes mountains, has been both a blessing and a curse. Historically, floods have been part of the natural cycle, feeding the lush rainforests and supporting biodiversity. However, they can also bring devastation to human settlements. The recent flood, however, surpasses any in living memory, marking a significant deviation from the norm. In comparison to past floods, this event stands out not just in scale but also in its impact on the population and infrastructure.

South Korea wildfires ‘largest on record’: disaster chief 

Wildfires in South Korea are now the largest and deadliest on record, having burned more forest and killed more people than any previous blaze, officials said Thursday, as the death toll hit 27.

More than a dozen fires broke out over the weekend, scorching wide swathes of the southeast and forcing around 37,000 people to flee, with the fire cutting off roads and downing communications lines as residents escaped in panic.

South Korea’s Ministry of Interior and Safety said that 27 people had been killed and dozens more injured, with the toll likely to rise. It is the highest number of deaths since the Korea Forest Service started records for wildfires in 1987.

When the Lights Go Out: How the Heathrow Airport Shutdown Exposes Our Critical Infrastructure Vulnerabilities 

Few could have predicted the following cascade of consequences when a fire broke out at an electrical substation in Hayes, west London, on the evening of March 21, 2025. By morning, Europe’s busiest airport—London Heathrow—had been completely shut down, with more than 1,300 flights canceled, affecting up to 200,000 passengers worldwide. What began as a localized incident quickly became an international transportation crisis that would take days to resolve.

The Heathrow shutdown represents a stark reminder of how vulnerable our modern society has become to critical infrastructure failures, whether caused by accidents, natural disasters, or deliberate attacks.

Pacific Prepared Podcast: Recent earthquake activity in Tonga has tested the nerves of residents since the volcanic eruption and tsunami in early 2022  

Coastal communities in Tonga live with the ongoing psychological scars of the 2022 volcanic eruption and tsunami. Tonga Broadcasting Commission explains how communities have responded to recent earthquake activity in the country. The weather and how it affects you is already part of your life, so let’s keep talking about being prepared.

Africa is proof that investing in climate resilience works – and that it makes good business sense 

Investment is pouring into renewable energy, green transport and smart agriculture in an effort to both slow down the accumulation of heat-trapping emissions and adapt to our warming planet. The benefits of taking early action are well understood, even if the needs outpace the funding for it. Africa was an early champion of climate adaptation. That is because 17 of the 20 countries most vulnerable to climate change are on our continent.

Preparing for extreme weather scenarios in Cambodia 

For decades, weather extremes have disrupted lives and livelihoods in Cambodia. Yet, despite the increasing frequency and severity of floods, storms, and droughts, the models used to estimate their economic impacts remain underdeveloped. While we can estimate long-term warming trends, the exact impacts of acute disasters remain uncertain. This uncertainty makes it crucial to prepare not just for what is expected, but for what might happen.

Occupational heat safety standards in the United States 

Extreme heat poses a range of potentially debilitating or deadly threats to workers. Although experts have been recommending commonsense criteria for a standard to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration for most of its 50-year history, many millions of workers in America lack adequate protection from heat.

Next generation city climate services using advanced weather models and emerging data sources 

Record-breaking temperatures are becoming ever more frequent and intense. Over 1.7 billion people around the world are at risk, says the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC). They add that around half of the world’s cities have faced increased heat exposure over the last four decades. This has an impact on public health, labour productivity and infrastructure.

The Ocean Economy to 2050 

The ocean economy has long been a powerful driver of global growth, creating jobs, fuelling development, and ensuring food security for millions worldwide. If the ocean economy were a country, it would be the fifth largest economy in the world. However, climate change, environmental degradation, lagging productivity, and slow digital transformation are intensifying pressures on marine ecosystems and economic potential. Tackling these challenges requires bold, co-ordinated action, not only to safeguard marine ecosystems but to sustain the ocean economy as a source of prosperity for future generations.

Accelerating compound flood risk assessments through active learning: a case study of Charleston County (USA) 

This study introduces a novel framework that uses active learning to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of compound flood risk assessments. Focused on Charleston County, South Carolina, it addresses limitations in traditional stochastic modeling that arise due to the computational burden of simulating numerous flood scenarios involving multiple drivers like storm surge, tides, and precipitation. By employing a Treed Gaussian Process (TGP) model, the framework selects the most informative flood events to simulate, reducing redundancy and allowing more complex variables (such as driver duration and time lags) to be considered without overwhelming computational costs.

Nature-based Solutions as Building Blocks for coastal flood risk reduction: a model-based ecosystem service assessment 

Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are increasingly recognized as effective measures for mitigating flood risks and enhancing climate change adaptation. However, evaluating their efficacy in delivering flood risk reduction ecosystem service (FRR-ESS) is usually limited by reliance on qualitative, expert-based “quick-scan” scoring methods. The present study introduces a model-based framework to quantify FRR-ESS provided by coastal NbS, which integrates expert-based assessments with quantitative results from an eco-hydro-morphodynamic numerical model. The model enables a comparative evaluation of individual and combined effects of NbS following a Building Blocks approach. By integrating habitat map change prediction in the evaluation, NbS flood reduction response to present and future storm scenarios are investigated.

Interconnected disaster risks: Turning over a new leaf (2025 report) 

The 2025 Interconnected Disaster Risks report shifts focus from diagnosing problems to mapping out solutions. It establishes that many of today’s solutions are surface-level fixes, and that to create lasting change, we need to question the societal structures and mindsets that perpetuate these challenges. The report offers a more holistic analysis of what lies at the heart of human actions, and how true change can be achieved, and it also gives real-world examples of positive changes that have been made around the world and can serve as a model and source of inspiration.

Healthcare in a changing climate: Investing in resilient solutions 

The report analyses preventable human and economic impacts of climate change across 11 diseases and conditions: malaria, dengue fever, cholera, generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, stunting, hypertension, ischemic heart disease, fatalities and injuries, heat-related diseases and asthma. Climate change will have a profound impact on people and economies – causing an estimated additional 14.5 million deaths and $12.5 trillion in economic costs between today and 2050.

WRRC Webinar: Paving the Way: Optimizing Governance Mechanisms for Resilient Recovery 

The discussion will draw on lessons from past disaster recoveries, showcasing how different governance models have shaped recovery outcomes. Key themes include cross-sectoral coordination, institutional capacity, financing mechanisms, and strategies for ensuring inclusive decision-making. Insights from global case studies will inform practical approaches to strengthening governance for resilient recovery, aligning with Sendai Framework Priority 4 and the Global Call to Action for Investing in Readiness for Resilient Recovery.

Change now – The world expo of solutions for the planet 

At the midway point of the 2020-2030 decade for decisive climate action, and echoing the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement, ChangeNOW 2025 gathers 1,000 groundbreaking solutions and visionary leaders in a spectacular showcase to accelerate the transition towards a sustainable world.

Our Ocean, Our action 

The 10th Our Ocean Conference has chosen the theme ‘Our Ocean, Our Action’ to promote global actions for a sustainable ocean. In particular, this 10th conference will discuss ‘Digital Oceans’ as a special agenda, focusing on means to drive action. Ocean Digital is a concept that combines the ocean industry and digital technology, serving as an implementation tool to achieve a sustainable ocean swiftly and systematically.

Storm surge virtual reality simulation designed to save lives

Weather the Storm, a virtual reality simulation that takes users through the effects of storm surge to communicate its devastating and sometimes fatal consequences, is now available for download. This simulation is available thanks to a partnership with University of Georgia, Clemson University, Georgia Sea Grant and South Carolina Sea Grant  and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Flooding expected sooner in Hawai’i’s sinking coastal areas

Some parts of Hawai‘i are sinking faster than others. That discovery, published recently in a study by researchers at the University of Hawai‘i (UH) at Mānoa, also highlights that as sea level rises, the infrastructure, businesses, and communities in these low-lying areas are at risk of flooding sooner than scientists anticipated, particularly in certain urban areas of O‘ahu.

Compound climate events are on the rise. It’s time for action

Compound events – where two or more hazards, such as heatwaves and floods, occur simultaneously or in close succession – are becoming more common. This phenomenon often results in more severe negative outcomes than if each hazard were to occur separately. Recent incidents in Pakistan and the United States highlight existing resilience gaps, and the adaptation solutions required to reduce the impact of compound events.

Water and climate: Rising risks for urban populations

Right now, 90% of climate disasters are water-related, and the 4.4 billion people who live in towns and cities – especially in low-income countries – are on the frontlines.

As the climate crisis continues to throw the water cycle out of balance, many of the world’s largest cities are impacted in ways that are hard to anticipate and plan for. The frequency and magnitude of events such as floods and droughts are evolving due to climatic trends. And when water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services and systems cannot cope with intensifying and unpredictable climatic extremes, it is often the most vulnerable and marginalised people who suffer the worst impacts on their health, education and livelihoods, pushing them further into poverty.

Enhancing climate resilience with smarter data: the role of dynamic social registries

2024 has been marked by catastrophic floods caused by climate change in many regions of the world. In West and Central Africa alone, nearly 7 million people have been affected by rising waters following torrential rains. These floods exacerbate food insecurity, which is expected to impact 55 million people this year. As is often the case, the poorest populations are the most vulnerable. In response to the increasingly frequency of floods and droughts, several countries in West and Central Africa are developing climate-adaptive social protection systems. The goal is to build the resilience of poor populations and ensure a rapid response in times of crisis.

The Philippines: Harnessing smart tech for disaster preparedness

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), through the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), has developed the Rapid Earthquake Damage Assessment System (REDAS). This technology provides science-based data to facilitate quick, informed decision-making during disaster events.

REDAS is a powerful tool that simulates earthquake impacts, monitors various hazards, and offers near-real-time risk assessments. It is designed to provide LGUs with the crucial information needed to reduce disaster risks and improve response times.

New Zealand and Japan collaborate on smart disaster resilience

The New Zealand Government is investing in research and technology partnerships that will significantly enhance the nation’s ability to prepare for and respond to natural disasters. Dr Shane Reti, Minister for Science, Innovation, and Technology, announced that three research teams from New Zealand have been granted funding to collaborate with leading Japanese research organisations on projects designed to boost New Zealand’s resilience when disasters strike.

Water and climate: Rising risks for urban populations 

This report highlights how the cities facing the worst climate impacts are often those with the highest social vulnerability. Many communities ‘whiplash’ between droughts that dry up water sources followed close by floods that overwhelm infrastructure, destroying toilets and sanitation systems, contaminating drinking water. Other cities are experiencing dramatic climate reversals – places accustomed to heavy rainfall now face drought, while historically arid regions now grapple with unexpected floods.

Flood impacts on healthcare facilities and disaster preparedness – a systematic review

This study reviewed scientific articles to assess the impacts of floods on healthcare facilities (HCFs) and the risk management strategies used. Researchers searched four databases for English-language studies on flood and cyclone hazards, HCF types, and disaster risk management, following PRISMA guidelines. From 7,500 records, 74 studies were selected.

Pre-financing anticipatory action: a practical guide for national societies

This guide explains the value of a pre-financing strategy and key factors to consider in its development. It details different pre-financing options to support effective decision-making and provides step-by-step guidance for National Societies to design and implement their strategy.

While relevant to all National Societies engaged in anticipatory action, different sections may be particularly useful for program managers, finance officers, and logistics teams based on their roles in the process.

GEOGLAM Crop Monitor for Early Warning report: March 2025

he GEOGLAM Crop Monitor for Early Warning (CM4EW) is an international and transparent multi-source, consensus assessment of the crop growing conditions, status, and agro-climatic conditions that are likely to impact global production. This is the March 2025 report.

Climate change in rural landscapes – systemic solutions for a sustainable future

This factsheet examines the systemic challenges of climate change in rural landscapes and explores integrated solutions for climate-resilient and low-emission development. It highlights the interconnections between climate change, agriculture, biodiversity, and livelihoods, emphasizing equitable access to land, water, and resources.

World Water Day

World Water Day, held on 22 March every year since 1993, is an annual United Nations Observance focusing on the importance of freshwater.  

 Launch of the 1st World Day for Glaciers and pivot event World Water Day in New York

4th Workshop Social Media for Disaster Risk Management: Researchers meet Practitioners

Deep-dive on Satellite Observations for Hydrology 

The central goal of the International Multi-risk Seminar is to advance the conceptual and methodological debate on how to evaluate and manage contexts where multiple risks overlap and result in other forms

From Stockholm to COP 29:

The Water Diplomat: What does Stockholm World Water Week represent to you, and how does the World Water Week help to deepen your understanding of water challenges and solutions? A conversation with Bapon Fakhruddin, Water and Climate Leader at the Green Climate Fund and Henk Ovink, Executive Director of the Global Commission on the Economics of Water.

Assessing the impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton on small businesses

After making landfall in Florida on October 9, 2024, Hurricane Milton swept a path across the state, affecting 34 counties, many of which had already been exposed to Hurricane Helene only a few days earlier. The counties Milton affected are collectively home to almost 60 percent of the state’s MSMEs. Those 1.9 million small businesses employ about 4 million people and generate more than half a trillion dollars in revenue. Of these 34 counties, the 25 that endured winds of greater than 58 miles per hour are home to 35 percent of the state’s MSMEs.

New Lancet Countdown Report reveals record-breaking health threats of climate inaction

Shouro Dasgupta, a researcher with the CMCC Foundation, contributed new findings to the Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change’s eighth annual global report, which highlights the rising health risks posed by climate change, with worsening effects worldwide. The report points to the dangers of ongoing fossil fuel investments and inadequate funding for climate resilience, underscoring that these choices are increasing health vulnerabilities in many regions.

The Lancet urges divestment from fossil fuels to save lives

The 2024 Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change, launched today, reveals a stark escalation in climate-related health threats, with 10 of 15 indicators tracking health threats reaching alarming new records. In 2023 alone, people faced an average of 50 additional days of health-threatening temperatures than expected without climate change, and nearly half the world experienced severe drought, associated with heightened food insecurity for 151 million more people compared to previous decades. Despite the availability of clean energy solutions, governments and companies continue to invest trillions in fossil fuels, exacerbating these health risks. The report calls for an urgent redirection of these funds to build a healthier, more sustainable future and underscores the need for a rapid, just transition to net zero emissions.

Satellites could hold the key to keeping the lights turned on

Extreme weather is becoming more common around the world, with climatic events such as storms often causing damage to power networks, resulting in a loss of electricity – but could satellites prove to be a solution to maintaining energy supplies on earth? Storms and floods can have devastating consequences, leaving thousands of homes without power, with vulnerable people particularly effected. At the same time, the amount of renewable energy entering the UK power grid is increasing significantly as the UK aims to reach Net Zero by 2050.

Strengthening climate Resilience of Vulnerable Agriculture Livelihoods in Iraq (SRVALI)

“Strengthening Climate Resilience of Vulnerable Agriculture Livelihoods in Iraq (SRVALI)” project. This landmark initiative is set to transform the lives of the most vulnerable people in Iraq, and I couldn’t be more excited to be part of it!

SRVALI is all about innovation and empowerment. We’re introducing climate-smart irrigation technologies, transitioning from open canals to closed piped systems, and integrating solar panels to power irrigation pumps. This not only enhances water efficiency but also showcases Iraq’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Plus, our Climate Wise Women (CWW) initiative empowers women as key change agents in climate adaptation.

Sectoral Guide: Water Security

Discover essential insights for developing robust, climate-resilient sanitation projects and enhancing access to climate finance. Climate change is evident around the globe, and it requires bold actions now to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Paris Agreement. In addition, water is one of the world’s most essential commodities and demand for water service has increased tremendously following population growth, economic development and changing consuming patterns. Facing increasing demand for this scarce resource, the global water business seems to offer investment opportunities.

Join the Green Climate Fund at COP29 on Nov 11, 15:15pm – 16:45 at the Joint Pavillion for the Launch of the Water Project Guidelines

Case studies of projects funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) in relation to the strategic workstreams of the Warsaw International Mechanism (WIM) for loss and damage

The Green Climate Fund’s projects demonstrated valuable experience in tackling the challenges of loss and damage caused by climate change. As the new loss and damage fund’s operationalization is in process, these case studies funded by GCF have significantly impacted through thorough risk management strategies.

From community engagement to community inclusion for socially and procedurally just flood risk governance

This systematic review investigates current approaches, barriers, and enablers of community engagement in urban flood risk governance (FRG) through a flood risk justice lens, employing a systematic search and an adapted ‘best fit’ framework synthesis methodology, and reporting results according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses transparent reporting system. The central theme of inclusivity emerged from the synthesis, which integrated sub-themes of relationality, non-universalism, power structures, and personal paradigms in a conceptual model.

Disaster Risk Management Action Plan, 2024–2030: Redoubling action toward disaster resilience

The Disaster Risk Management Action Plan (DRMAP), 2024–2030 aims to redouble Asian Development Bank (ADB) efforts toward achieving disaster resilience in Asia and the Pacific. It follows an integrated approach that considers disaster resilience as the result of investments across a range of relevant sectors. The DRMAP encourages dedicated efforts to address systemic risks through structural and nonstructural measures. The DRMAP sets out four interlinked strategic work streams to strengthen disaster resilience.

Australia State of the climate 2024

The biennial State of the Climate Report draws on the latest national and international climate research, monitoring, science and projection information to describe changes and long-term trends in Australia’s climate. It is intended to inform economic, environmental and social decision-making by governments, industries and communities. Observations, reconstructions of past climate and climate modelling continue to provide a consistent picture of ongoing, long‑term climate change interacting with underlying natural variability. Associated changes in weather and climate extremes— such as extreme heat, heavy rainfall, coastal inundation, fire weather and drought—exacerbate existing pressures on the health and wellbeing of our communities and ecosystems.

Nationally determined contributions under the Paris Agreement. Synthesis report by the secretariat

The report synthesizes information from 168 latest Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) submitted by 195 Parties to the Paris Agreement, covering 95% of global emissions in 2019. It highlights that 94% of Parties have provided quantified mitigation targets, with global greenhouse gas emissions projected to be approximately 53.0 Gt CO₂ eq in 2025 and 51.5 Gt CO₂ eq in 2030-levels similar to 2019. While there is a potential for global emissions to peak before 2030, the current NDCs are insufficient to limit global warming to 1.5°C or 2°C above pre-industrial levels. The report emphasizes the increasing inclusion of adaptation strategies, gender considerations, and recognition of Indigenous Peoples and local communities in NDCs, but underscores the significant gap between current commitments and the emission reductions required to meet global climate goals.

UNFCCC Climate Change Conference (COP29): Side Event

A Regional Call to Action on Climate Change: Addressing Glacial Melting in Central and West Asia through Glaciers to Farms (G2F) Regional Program and CAREC Partnership for Climate, Innovation, and Trade

Thursday, 14 November 2024, 2:25 pm – 3:30 pm (Asia/Baku)
COP29 Presidency Area, Hirkan Room

Europe and Central Asia Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (EFDRR)

6 Nov – 8 Nov

The Regional Platform will assess progress on the regional EFDRR Roadmap for Disaster Risk Reduction 2021-2030 and build capacities of authorities and stakeholders to accelerate the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030.

Tsunami: Sea Change for Resilience exhibition launch

4^th Nov

Commemorating the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, 20 years on.

On 26 December 2004, an earthquake in the Indian Ocean caused a devastating tsunami that killed around 230,000 people in 14 countries. It remains one of the deadliest disasters in recent human history.

COP29

11 – 22^nd Nov

In Solidarity for a Green World

The 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

An international training workshop on open science infrastructures for disaster management 14-15 November 2024; MAS, Ulumbaartaar, Mongolia  

Open collaboration and open science among global stakeholders are vital to face the great challenges of this century and to ensure a sustainable world and healthy living conditions for future generations

Climate change will lead to wetter US winters, modeling study finds

Most Americans can expect wetter winters in the future due to global warming, according to a new study led by a University of Illinois Chicago scientist.

Using climate models to investigate how winter precipitation in the United States will change by the end of the 21st century, a team led by Akintomide Akinsanola found overall winter precipitation and extreme weather events will increase across most of the country.

New food early warning systems boost Fiji’s disaster preparedness amid growing climate risks

Approximately 171,611 Fijians in the Rewa Delta, Naitasiri, and parts of Tailevu will now benefit from 17 newly installed Flood Early Warning Systems. This advanced network of four rainfall stations, seven water level stations, and six warning posts will significantly enhance Fiji’s capacity to predict floods and execute timely evacuations, reducing the devastating impact of natural disasters on local communities.

The new warning system’s launch coincides perfectly with the Coalition Government’s recently unveiled National Development Plan, which aims to empower Fijians and create a more resilient nation and comes at a critical time for the country, which is facing increasing risks from climate change.

Research shows heat, drought and fire risk are increasing in South America

The number of days per year that are simultaneously extremely hot, dry, and have a high fire risk have as much as tripled since 1970 in some parts of South America.

South America is warming at a similar rate to the global average. However, some regions of the subcontinent are more at risk of the co-occurrence of multiple climate extremes. These compound extremes can have amplified impacts on ecosystems, economy, and human health. The authors additionally found that the likelihood of the compound conditions occurring on a regional basis was affected by the El Niño-Southern Oscillation. During the warm El Niño phase, fire risk increased in the northern Amazon region, while the cooler La Niña phase led to increased fire risk in central South America.

How to fix funding bottlenecks and pave the way for locally led adaptation

A new survey explores the operational bottlenecks preventing local organisations from accessing climate adaptation funding. As the UN General Assembly approaches, IIED’s May Thazin Aung and BRAC’s Sousan Suha share the survey’s findings and explains how funders can smooth the way for locally led adaptation.

Race to Resilience welcomes 3 new regions as part of RegionsAdapt to boost climate resilience in India, Senegal, and Brazil

Three new regions – Assam (India), Louga (Senegal), and Pernambuco (Brazil) – have joined the Race to Resilience campaign through RegionsAdapt, committing to enhance climate resilience. Discover how these areas are empowering local communities, from rural farming to coastal restoration, to protect their environments and create sustainable futures.

How satellites are boosting climate resilience of EU cities

Our cities are home to the vast majority of Europeans, but they are under pressure from the complexities of climate change and rapid urbanisation. The EU-funded CURE project leveraged the power of Earth Observation satellites to address these issues, aiming to create safer, more sustainable cities for EU citizens.

One of the biggest hurdles in sustainable urban planning has been the lack of direct access to environmental data at a local scale. CURE’s efforts aimed to fix this problem by taking advantage of the vast amount of information collected by Copernicus, the Earth Observation (EO) component of the EU Space Programme.

Scaling Climate Finance for Locally-Led Adaptation

As the frequency and impacts of climate events increase, demand for adaptation at the local level becomes urgent. The adaptation finance received from developing and least developed countries is estimated to be less than USD 25 billion per year, which is exponentially less than the required amount of USD 215 billion per year. Further, the evidence indicates that less than 10% of global climate finance reaches the local level. Local communities lack the institutional capacity, financial tools, and knowledge networks necessary to secure adaptation finance. Complex application procedures, limited funding availability, and unequal distribution exacerbate the challenge. This highlights the need for developing innovative approaches to enhance access to adaptation finance at the local level in the Global South.

Economic and non-economic loss and damage: a harmful dichotomy?

Loss and damage is treated as comprising separate ‘economic’ and ‘non-economic’ dimensions in research and policy. While this has contributed to greater awareness and visibility of non-economic values, our empirical insights show that the two are inextricably linked and that research aimed at informing policy must be better attuned to the multifaceted and cascading nature of loss and damage.

Climate change and high exposure increased costs and disruption to lives and livelihoods from flooding associated with exceptionally heavy rainfall in Central Europe

While the rain was extremely heavy in many locations, the extent of the event, stretching across many countries, was exceptional. Almost two million people were directly affected by the flooding caused by the extreme rainfall (blue News, 2024). The most severe impacts in urban areas were in the Polish-Czech border region and Austria (The Guardian, 2024). At the time of writing at least 24 people lost their lives (The Guardian, 2024; BNN, 2024; CBS, 2024) with several persons still missing several days after the event in Czechia (DW, 2024). All countries were affected by power cuts, leading to schools and factories closing as well as hospitals.

Regional Guidelines on Protection and Assistance to Persons Displaced Across Borders and Migrants in Countries Affected by Natural Disasters

The ‘Regional Guidelines on Protection and Assistance to Persons Displaced across Borders and Migrants in Countries Affected by Natural Disasters’ (hereinafter the Guidelines) aim to improve institutional capacity in the humanitarian response to the challenges of displacement due to disasters.

How humans are affecting the Northern Hemisphere’s wind patterns

Part of the problem is that the Earth’s air circulation systems, which help spread and disperse moisture and heat throughout the world, have been weakening over the years. However, the exact reasons for this weakening have eluded researchers.

Now, in two studies led by Dr. Rei Chemke of the Weizmann Institute of Science, researchers have managed to crack this mystery: Human activity is what has been making the air circulation systems weaker.

Both studies focused on the wind patterns that together act as a vital network through which wind-borne heat and moisture flow throughout the world. Forming a major part of this network are storm tracks, high-pressure and low-pressure weather systems that flow from west to east.

Reducing floodplain development doesn’t need to be complex, say researchers

A paper, titled “How local governments avoid floodplain development through consistent implementation of routine municipal ordinances, plans, and programs,” published in Oxford Open Climate Change uncovers evidence suggesting that, contrary to expectations, most U.S. cities are not doing too badly in avoiding development in areas prone to flooding, and those that are effective appear to be applying existing tools and strategies well, rather than doing anything particularly novel.

Disaster Research Days 2024: shaping the future of science and research for disaster risk reduction

DG HOME is pleased to announce a new CERIS event: Disaster Research Days 2024, which will be held in Vienna on 8-10 October 2024 with a focus on Shaping the Future of Science and Research for Disaster Risk Reduction!

The aim is to foster interaction among science and research and disaster risk reduction policies, through dialogues involving scientists, practitioners, risk managers, policymakers, and local communities. The event will showcase the latest research findings and innovative solutions aimed at enhancing societal resilience. Participants will engage in knowledge-sharing, tool development, and strategy formulation, addressing the multifaceted challenges of disaster risk reduction

Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction

The Government of the Philippines partners with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) to host the next Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) from 14 to 18 October 2024 at the Philippine International Convention Center in Manila (18 October is reserved for an optional site visit). The APMCDRR is the main platform in Asia and the Pacific to monitor, review and enhance cooperation for the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 at the regional level.

MCR2030 Disaster Risk Financing Roundtable – Financing a transition towards climate resilience

The MCR2030 Disaster Risk Financing Roundtable will kick-off the first session at the Resilience Investment and Financing Forum segment on day two of the European Urban Resilience Forum 2023.

The Roundtable will offer a space for discussion and exchange of experiences from cities, municipalities, financial service providers, investors, and stakeholders on the mobilization of funding for disaster resilience plans and projects.

Bonn Technical Forum 2024 on Non-Economic Losses- Bonn, Germany 22-  23 October

Both the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and the Paris Agreement emphasize the importance of considering these non-economic aspects to enhance understanding, action, and support for loss and damage associated with climate change and disaster. The Sendai Framework includes explicit references to ecosystems, cultural heritage, traditional and indigenous knowledge, territory, health and other key factors influencing both vulnerability and resilience.

Navigating the financial risks of flooding

Floods continue to be one of the costliest natural hazards, and they are more and more exacerbated by climate change.[1] Over 40% of company locations within MSCI GeoSpatial Asset Intelligence coverage are affected by at least one of the three different flood types: pluvial flooding (from extreme rainfall), fluvial flooding (from rivers overflowing their banks) and coastal flooding (from high tidal water and storm surges).

GCF unveils new organisational structure to accelerate climate action

The Green Climate Fund (GCF) today unveiled the latest phase of its ambitious reform agenda to enhance efficiency and impact in supporting climate action.

The Fund transitions today to a new organisational structure designed to fulfill its promise, potential, and ambition. This transition is part of GCF’s “50 by 30” vision and reform agenda, which aims to efficiently and impactfully manage USD 50 billion in investments by 2030, as announced by GCF Executive Director Mafalda Duarte at last year’s United Nations General Assembly.

SCAR Open Science Conference in Chile: a catalyst for polar research

The 2024 Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) Open Science Conference, being held from August 19 to 23 in Chile, is bringing together polar researchers from around the world to share their latest discoveries, foster international collaborations, and address the critical challenges facing the polar regions.

Themed “Antarctic Science: Crossroads for a New Hope,” this edition aims to highlight Antarctica’s unique and fragile ecosystem, especially in the context of escalating climate change concerns.

How to fix funding bottlenecks and pave the way for locally led adaptation

A new survey explores the operational bottlenecks preventing local organisations from accessing climate adaptation funding. As the UN General Assembly approaches, IIED’s May Thazin Aung and BRAC’s Sousan Suha share the survey’s findings and explains how funders can smooth the way for locally led adaptation.

Vicious circle of climate change, wildfires and air pollution has major impacts

A vicious cycle of climate change, wildfires and air pollution is having a spiralling negative impact on human health, ecosystems and agriculture, according to a new report from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

Global South cities lack cooling green spaces

Cities in the Global South are more exposed to extreme heat because they lack cooling green spaces, new research shows. The study found that Global South cities have just 70% of the “cooling capacity” provided by urban greenery in the Global North. With temperatures rising, combined with the “urban heat island” effects that make cities hotter than rural areas, heat-related illness and death in cities are becoming more common.

The risk of global water scarcity is greater when accounting for the origin of rain

Securing the world’s water supply is one of the greatest challenges of our time. Research at Stockholm University is now presenting an alternative method for quantifying the global risk of water scarcity. Results indicate higher risks to water supply than previously expected if accounting for the environmental conditions and governability where rain is produced.

WMO Air Quality and Climate Bulletin

The bulletin, the fourth in an annual series, explores the intricate relationship between air quality and climate. This year’s theme is Invest in Clean Air Now. Ambient air pollution causes more than 4.5 million premature deaths annually and wreaks a high economic and environmental cost. The WMO Air Quality and Climate Bulletin includes a special focus on wildfires. It also looks at global and regional concentrations of particulate matter pollution and its harmful effects on crops in 2023.

Climate resilience dialogue

The final report of the Climate Resilience Dialogue puts forward actions for increasing climate resilience in the EU and addressing the climate protection gap, with a focus on adaptation measures. The European Commission convened a Climate Resilience Dialogue in November 2021 to facilitate an open exchange on ways to address the climate protection gap and increase climate resilience in the EU, with a focus on climate adaptation. The Dialogue brought together stakeholders such as public authorities, including supervisors, consumer organisations, and the insurance industry.

Making climate finance work for all: Five tests for a robust New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG)

This report sets out key principles and five tests that can help ensure the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) is robust, all of which are underpinned by a core principle of fairness.

This year, at the United Nations climate conference in Azerbaijan (COP29), countries are due to agree a new global finance goal to cut greenhouse gas emissions, boost resilience, help communities adapt to the impacts of climate change, and cover the costs of loss and damage. It is critical that this New Collective Quantified Goal, or NCQG, reflects the lessons learned over the last 15 years, restores trust in the multilateral process, and equips countries to respond to rapidly escalating challenges.

Maturity model: Adaptative social protection system

This model is organized into 7 dimensions and consists of 50 indicators. It assesses the level of maturity of the system across 5 different levels. The interconnectedness and reciprocal influence across these dimensions ensure a holistic examination, preventing fragmented approaches and offering a comprehensive perspective of the system.

Adaptive social protection refers to the utilization of social protection systems and programs to enhance the ability of impoverished and vulnerable households to withstand and recover from various shocks, such as those associated with climate change.The maturity model is an assessment tool that seeks to measure the capacity of social protection systems to fulfill these new functions.

6^th Arab Water Forum

Building on 16 years of success, the Arab Water Forum will gather visionaries and pioneers from across the water value chain to advance the solutions that matter most to ensure access to clean water and sanitation for all.

Taking place in Abu Dhabi, the three-day event provides a platform for industry leaders to fast-track collaborative efforts to meet water security goals and identify the most promising innovation and growth opportunities.

Climate Ambition Summit

Against the backdrop of the worsening climate crisis, the UN Secretary-General’s Climate Ambition Summit aimed to showcase “first mover and doer” leaders from government, business, finance, local authorities, and civil society who came with credible actions, policies and plans – and not just pledges – to accelerate the decarbonization of the global economy and deliver climate justice in line with his Acceleration Agenda.

“If these first-doers and first-movers can do it, everybody can do it,” the Secretary-General said in his closing remarks, calling it a “Summit of Hope.”

GEO Symposium and ODOK Workshop 2024

The 2024 GEO Symposium and Open Data & Open Knowledge Workshop (ODOK) will be held in Hangzhou, China from 23 to 26 September 2024.

Under the theme ‘From Vision to Action: Crafting GEO’s Post 2025 Implementation Plan’, the Symposium and ODOK will focus on translating the GEO Post-2025 Strategy into a detailed and costed Implementation Plan.

Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction

The Government of the Philippines partners with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) to host the next Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) from 14 to 18 October 2024 at the Philippine International Convention Center in Manila (18 October is reserved for an optional site visit). The APMCDRR is the main platform in Asia and the Pacific to monitor, review and enhance cooperation for the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 at the regional level.

Disaster Research Days 2024: shaping the future of science and research for disaster risk reduction

DG HOME is pleased to announce a new CERIS event: Disaster Research Days 2024, which will be held in Vienna on 8-10 October 2024 with a focus on Shaping the Future of Science and Research for Disaster Risk Reduction!

Drought Resilience +10

Integrated Drought Management Program – IDMP, World Meteorological Organization – WMO, Global Water Partnership – GWP, United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification – UNCCD , Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations – FAO, United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction – UNDRR, World Bank, Integrated Water Management Institute – IWMI, International Union for Conservation of Nature – IUCN, National Drought Mitigation Center – NDMC, Maroc Meteo, U.S. Department of State, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – NOAA, Agencia Estatal de Meteorología – AEMET

Novel platform empowers cities to build climate resilience and adaptation

More than 70 % of Europe’s urban population faces the growing challenges of climate change, from air pollution to flash floods. EU-funded researchers are developing a revolutionary platform to visualise these impacts and evaluate the effectiveness of city responses.

The EU-funded HARMONIA project is a Europe-wide collaboration comprising universities, research institutes, small- and medium-sized enterprises and non-governmental organisations in four pilot cities: Ixelles, Milan, Piraeus and Sofia.

Green climate fund approves WFP’s US$ 9.8 million project to build climate resilience in Pakistan

Islamabad – The Green Climate Fund (GCF) has approved a US$ 9.8 million climate risk management initiative aimed at strengthening resilience to extreme climate in flood-prone districts in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province, to be implemented by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) in collaboration with the Government of Pakistan.

The latest data confirms: Forest fires are getting worse

The latest data on forest fires confirms what we’ve long feared: Forest fires are becoming more widespread, burning at least twice as much tree cover today as they did two decades ago. Fire is also making up a larger share of global tree cover loss compared to other drivers like mining and forestry. While fires only accounted for about 20% of all tree cover loss in 2001, they now account for roughly 33%. This increase in fire activity has been starkly visible in recent years.

Japan’s magnitude 7.1 shock triggers megaquake warning. How likely is this scenario?

On 8 August 2024, a magnitude 7.1 shock struck at a depth of 25 kilometers, about five to ten kilometers off the shores of the city of Miyazaki on Japan’s southern island, Kyushu (USGS, 2024). The population of this region is accustomed to large shocks; in 2016 a magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck the city of Kumamoto, in the center of Kyushu, causing extensive damage.

Almost half a billion children live in areas experiencing at least twice as many extremely hot days as their grandparents

One in 5 children – or 466 million – live in areas that experience at least double the number of extremely hot days every year compared to just six decades ago, according to a new UNICEF analysis. Using a comparison between a 1960s and a 2020-2024 average, the analysis issues a stark warning about the speed and scale at which extremely hot days – measured as more than 35 degrees Celsius / 95 degrees Fahrenheit – are increasing for almost half a billion children worldwide, many without the infrastructure or services to endure it.

Cyclone Remal: A wake-up call for building resilience

With a span of about 400km, Cyclone Remal struck the Bangladesh coast on 26th May 2024, passing through the Sundarbans with wind speeds as high as 111km/h. The cyclone caused prolonged precipitation and widespread destruction, with floods submerging areas and disrupting livelihoods across 19 districts. Damage to 61 kilometres of embankments in Khulna, Satkhira, and Bagerhat resulted in significant financial losses.

Building disaster resilience by empowering future innovators

The NSW Government has recently announced funding for a UNSW Sydney-led program for upper primary school students on bushfire and air quality management. The Fresh AIR Innovators program combines technology, environmental awareness and entrepreneurial spirit to inspire the next generation of problem-solvers and innovators. Project lead Professor Donna Green from the UNSW School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences says the program is a re-think on how STEM and disaster resilience is taught in schools.

Global Heat Resilience Service

GEO is joining forces with partners around the world to develop the Global Heat Resilience Service, aiming to help every city understand the dangers of extreme heat. With this transformative service, cities will be able to access valuable data, information, and insight to develop better plans for managing extreme heat events, protect people’s health, and reduce the impact on local economies.

Interactive map shows thresholds for coastal nuisance flooding

As sea levels rise around the world, communities in coastal areas are more frequently seeing the impact of routine high tide flooding. These incursions of sea water may weaken foundations and infrastructure, slow down traffic and curb business activities in affected areas. University of Alabama graduate student Sadaf Mahmoudi, working under Dr. Hamed Moftakhari, trained machine learning algorithms learn the underlying features that contribute to sea level rise and high tide flooding

A global foresight report on planetary health and human wellbeing

This report calls for the world to pay heed and respond to a range of emerging challenges that could disrupt planetary health and wellbeing. It presents insights on eight critical global shifts that are accelerating the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity and nature loss and pollution and waste.

Resilience amidst the river. Project evaluation: Reinforcing rural resilience (RRR) through a strong National Society

This study was commissioned to evaluate the “Reinforcing Rural Resilience (RRR) project in terms of relevance, effectiveness, and efficiency. Implemented by Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) and Swiss Red Cross (SRC) between 2021 and 2024, the project reached a population of 235,200 across 88 communities in Bangladesh’s north-western districts of Kurigram and Gaibandha.

Towards transparent, accountable and inclusive climate change policies in Timor-Leste

This report highlights the disproportionate impact of climate change on vulnerable groups, particularly women and people with disabilities in Timor-Leste, and underscores the importance of effective climate finance disbursement to help these communities build resilience. The report emphasizes that climate finance is critical to help these communities build resilience.

Removing development incentives in risky areas promotes climate adaptation

This study evaluates one approach to discouraging development in risky areas-eliminating public incentives for development, such as infrastructure investments, disaster assistance and federal flood insurance. Using machine learning and matching techniques, the authors examine the Coastal Barrier Resources System (CBRS), a set of lands where these federal incentives have been removed.

World Water Week 2024: 25-29 August

World Water Week 2024 is centered on water cooperation, for peace and security in its broadest sense. The theme, Bridging Borders: Water for a Peaceful and Sustainable Future, asks us to recognize the regional and global interconnectivity of communities and nations, and underscores the collaborative effort needed to achieve a peaceful and sustainable future

FIREURISK Project – Final Demonstration of Geospatial products

The FirEUrisk Project has developed a science-based strategy to tackle wildfire risk, already validated in five regions across Europe: Barcelona province, central Portugal, central Europe, Kalmar county and Attica region.

Demonstration objectives:
– Critical assessment of the methods/products developed within the FirEUrisk project for the European Territory.
– Validation/semi-operational test for the summer of 2024 fire season.

Disaster Research Days 2024: shaping the future of science and research for disaster risk reduction

DG HOME is pleased to announce a new CERIS event: Disaster Research Days 2024, which will be held in Vienna on 8-10 October 2024 with a focus on Shaping the Future of Science and Research for Disaster Risk Reduction!

Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction 

The Government of the Philippines partners with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) to host the next Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) from 14 to 18 October 2024 at the Philippine International Convention Center in Manila (18 October is reserved for an optional site visit). The APMCDRR is the main platform in Asia and the Pacific to monitor, review and enhance cooperation for the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 at the regional level.

Collaborative journey toward advancing urban resilience

The UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the World Health City Forum (WHCF) are proud to announce our collaborative efforts to bolster urban resilience globally in the face of pandemics and climate change. This partnership aims to empower urban stakeholders with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage and mitigate disaster risks effectively.

Ensuring resilient water infrastructure in a changing climate

Climate change is having a fundamental effect on the water sector, and if we look at this from the point of view of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) itself, there is an impact of decision making not only on the economy, but also on key aspects of the national development goals and issues such as food security, environment, health and of course SDG 6.

Water management has a huge economic impact, and if you are able to ensure that IWRM has been embedded into decision making through processes like multicriteria assessment, it is possible to make judgements about how to make the most efficient use of limited water resources.

New AI-led science initiative will help protect communities hit by climate change in East Africa

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), Oxford University Physics Department, IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC), and various national forecasting and meteorology agencies across east Africa are joining forces to pioneer a transformative initiative that is revolutionising extreme weather forecasting and early warning systems in the region.

Avoiding gridlock: The impact of climate on electric grids

Grids are the arteries and veins of electricity circulation. Comprising of power stations, substations, transformers, transmission and distribution lines, the grid connects electricity supply to demand. It is a complex and intricate network, exposed to many natural and man-made risks.

Shaping a resilient future: GEM’s innovations at WCEE2024

The Global Earthquake Model (GEM) Foundation is gearing up for the 18th World Conference on Earthquake Engineering (WCEE2024) in Milan, Italy, from July 1st to 5th, 2024. This premier earthquake engineering conference brings together researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of earthquake preparedness and mitigation strategies. GEM will be at the forefront, presenting a wide range of technical sessions and presentations by its leading scientists.

Wildfires increasingly threaten oil and gas drill sites, compounding potential health risks, study says

More than 100,000 oil and gas wells across the western U.S. are in areas burned by wildfires in recent decades, a new study has found, and some 3 million people live next to wells that in the future could be in the path of fires worsened by climate change.

Researchers from the University of California, Berkeley, said their analysis, which was published last week in the journal One Earth, is the first to examine historical and projected wildfire threats on oil and gas facilities in the U.S.

Communicating the links between climate change and heat waves with the Climate Shift Index

Extreme weather, including heat waves, poses a significant threat to human health and ecosystems. As global temperatures continue to rise, heat waves are becoming more frequent and severe. Because of this, communicating heat-related risks to the public is increasingly important for both their own protection and to encourage mitigation policies.

We conducted a message experiment with 3,902 Americans, focused on the July 2023 heat wave that occurred in much of the United States.

Community engagement in anticipatory action: Snapshot of experiences and good practices from focus countries

In this framework, FAO has developed a Compendium of experiences and good practices from focus countries, namely Bangladesh, Guatemala, the Niger and Zimbabwe. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), as one of the leading operational organizations implementing Anticipatory Action and providing technical advice and normative guidance on corresponding approaches in the agriculture and food security sector, has embarked on a project funded by the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance of the United States Agency for International Development with the aim to capture emerging and good practices to improve community engagement in Anticipatory Action.

Using climate financing wisely to address multiple crises

In this review, the authors examine how investments in food, land and water systems can reduce the risk of crises if aligned to harness multiple benefits. A convergence of several risk drivers creates the compound crises seen across the globe today. At the same time, the global humanitarian community and national institutions in affected countries are increasingly resource constrained. In this context, existing financing mechanisms should be evaluated for their potential to create synergies between social protection, peace, and inclusion objectives on the one hand and climate resilience outcomes on the other.

Towards a climate-resilient built environment: a discussion paper on opportunities and priorities for climate adaptation in the EU

As the topic of a climate-resilient built environment is not specifically encompassed by any single European Union (EU) policy file, this publication argues that consistency between adaptation and buildings policy could be boosted by a European Commission-led EU strategy. Amidst escalating climate impacts and societal challenges, climate adaptation policies in the built environment need to gain prominence if the EU is to advance towards a more resilient society. Current policy responses to the climate crisis focus on mitigation.

Understanding flood risk in urban environments: spatial analysis of building vulnerability and hazard areas in the Lisbon metropolitan area

This paper aims to contribute to the global efforts to enhance flood resilience in urban areas by introducing a physical vulnerability index for buildings in flood-prone urban areas and exploring its connection with flood hazard, as defined by the European Union Directive 2007/60/EC. An index-based methodology is proposed to assess the physical vulnerability of buildings to flooding, utilising the Portuguese Census and Georeferenced Buildings Database, collected on a nationwide scale.

Climate and UNFCCC priority talking points for SB60

The Sendai Stakeholder Engagement Mechanism (SEM) is a group of non-state stakeholders advocating for the recognition and implementation of disaster risk reduction (DRR) in intergovernmental policies, including in climate action. Disaster risk is inextricably linked to climate change. A goal of the SEM is to support the engagement of DRR stakeholder groups in intergovernmental decisions and policy-making. The following talking points come from previous SEM position papers for UNFCCC processes.

Workshop on disaster risk reduction and early warning systems for all through effective gender-responsive planning, digital government transformation and financing

An Online Workshop on Disaster Risk Reduction and Early Warning Systems for All through Effective Gender-Responsive Planning, Digital Government Transformation and Financing will be held on 23 – 25 July 2024. It is being organized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA)

Second episode of the WebTalk on investing in disaster risk reduction

This episode will showcase how governments have been integrating disaster risks into their budgetary processes and the benefits they are deriving from it. It will also feature a new report from UNDRR – the Resilience Expenditure Landscape Report, which provides analysis and lessons learned based on a dataset of 54 countries (mostly from Africa).

SKKU International Summer Semester

WWRP PEOPLE (Progressing EW4All Oriented to Partnerships and Local Engagement) Project Steering Group Meeting

Building on insights from previous projects, PEOPLE will recognize the elements of an effectively expanded Early Warning System (EWS) and analyze the structural and social processes needed to support this. It will acknowledge cultural and knowledge systems as well as governance dimensions, focusing on science for and with policy and practice.