Task Group mission and objectives
CODATA Task Group on FAIR Data for Disaster Risk Research (FAIR-DRR) fundamental objective is to create a harmonized data ecosystem that adheres to the FAIR principles—ensuring that data is Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable. By establishing connections and fostering compatibility among diverse data sources, including governmental agencies, research institutions, community groups, and individual contributors worldwide, we aim to streamline the process of data discovery, access, and utilization, leading to tangible societal benefits.
Significance
Disaster risk is escalating globally, yet the data needed to understand threats, enable early action and build resilience remains siloed and inaccessible. The CODATA FAIR-DRR task group brings together an unprecedented coalition to transform this landscape through a user-driven, FAIR data ecosystem. By breaking down barriers and catalyzing standards, transparency and capacity building, we will empower practitioners with the interoperable data essential for evidence-based policy, innovation and saving lives in the era of compounding climate risks. Now is the time for data stewards across sectors to lock arms through a shared commitment to cooperation, accessibility and application for the public good.
Impact
FAIR-DRR task group will pioneer a transformation worldwide to align and open disaster risk data, catalyzing breakthrough resilience outcomes. Our policy briefs, papers and thought leadership and demonstration of data integration value will empower practitioners and policymakers with the interoperable inputs essential for evidence-based action. This will support Government in climate vulnerable contexts through more targeted, innovative and rapid preparations, response and recovery when disasters strike. FAIR-DRR will build the foundations to save lives and livelihoods in an era of compounding climate threats.
Planned activities and outputs for 2023-2025
- Output 1) Convene workshops and events to align disaster data protocols and standards across
- Output 2) Develop policy briefs and guidance to showcase FAIR data value for risk analysis across disciplines
- Output 3) Offer training programs on open data tools and skills for thousands of practitioners
- Output 4) Foster partnerships to enable global consistency in hazard definitions and quantified loss standards
Past Achievements
Since 2021, FAIR-DRR catalyzed rapid damage mapping for 24+ disaster events, saving lives from Tonga to New Zealand. Our monthly newsletter builds data literacy among 8,000+ subscribers.
Pioneering partnerships like the ChinaGEO Mechanism activated open data protocols 25+ times enabling efficient response. Recognitions like the GEO SDG Awards validate our impact.
With 50+ publications spanning climate forecasts to vulnerability assessments and a proven track-record of alignment across 100+ organizations, FAIR-DRR laid the foundations for interoperable, ethical data sharing.
Our demonstrations of FAIR principles have equipped decision-makers to better prepare communities when disasters strike. By co-designing capacity building using scientific rigour and community needs, we embody data for the public good.
Contacts
Co-chairs:
- Dr Bapon Fakhruddin, Tonkin + Taylor, New Zealand
- Prof Guoqing Li, Aerospace Information Research Institute, CAS, China