In an era of uncertainties stemming from both climatic and non-climatic factors, the complexities of risks facing humanity and ecosystems have surged. Thus, emerging collaborations among scientists, local government units, and the community call us to examine the alarming state of our planet today.
Through the years, the scientific community has endeavored to harness the power of knowledge to shield lives and valuable assets from impending threats. This commitment was spotlighted with the release of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) Special Report on Extreme Events (SREX) in 2012, which underscored the need for heightened anticipatory capacities to confront the mounting challenges of climate change and disasters.
According to the IPCC (2022), the twin crises of climate change and social inequality, compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, have led to escalating poverty, exacerbated inequality, and heightened vulnerabilities, particularly among already marginalized groups. This has deepened the challenges faced by the most exposed and vulnerable nations and populations, intensifying the urgency for comprehensive and equitable solutions to address these intertwined issues.
In the wake of this, a concerted effort has been underway to bolster society’s readiness to combat imminent hazards through refined risk management strategies and the fortification of adaptive capacities. This drive has seen strides in enhanced climate forecasting, improved early warning systems, and the application of cutting-edge technologies. Moreover, efforts have extended beyond the scientific realm, with local communities drawing upon their traditional wisdom and empirical knowledge to create contextually-driven solutions, which are further strengthened through collaboration with scientific experts and local government units.
The Technologies for Anticipatory Action: Innovations for Climate Change and Disaster Resilience Exhibit and Conference is set to unfold from February 29 to March 2, 2024, at the Innovation Wing of the Arete, Ateneo de Manila University. The event is spearheaded by the Coastal Cities at Risk in the Philippines Project (CCARPH) in partnership with the National Resilience Council, the Manila Observatory, the Ateneo Innovation Center, and the Arete Sandbox. By spotlighting innovative technologies, local governance protocols, and grassroots initiatives, the event aims to enrich the arsenal of solutions aimed at fortifying climate and disaster resilience across the nation.
To register for the conference, view the concept note and conference schedule, or for more information regarding the organizers, please visit https://bit.ly/Anticipate2024.
Coastal Cities at Risk in the Philippines 