Unlocking Resilience: Introducing the New Urban Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction Hub

Oxfam in Bangladesh and Curtin University launched the Urban Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction Hub in Dhaka. This initiative aims to make cities more resilient to climate change and disasters through research, collaboration, and advocacy.

The Hub will focus on six key areas: urban heat and pollution, energy transitions, green infrastructure, geospatial science, climate justice, and emergency response systems. According to Ashish Damle, Oxfam’s Country Director in Bangladesh, cities like Dhaka are grappling with a mix of challenges—extreme heat, air pollution, and unplanned growth. This trifecta is driving vulnerable communities into deeper risk.

Currently, over 58% of the world’s population lives in urban areas, a figure expected to reach 70% by 2050. Cities consume about 75% of global energy and contribute over 70% of CO₂ emissions. They also face the brunt of climate threats like heatwaves and floods. Alarmingly, reports suggest that the urban poor face climate risks up to ten times greater than wealthier populations.

Professor Martin Van Kranendonk from Curtin University emphasized that urbanization is reshaping our vulnerabilities. He noted that while cities are on the front lines of climate change, they also hold solutions for transformation. The Hub aims to connect scientific research with community needs, fostering locally grounded solutions.

Nayoka Martinez-Bäckström from the Swedish Embassy in Dhaka highlighted the necessity of climate resilience in urban planning, especially for vulnerable populations. She described the Hub as a crucial element in integrating sustainable practices.

Local officials also echoed the urgency of cooperative action. Dhaka’s city administrators discussed the need for adaptive strategies best developed from community input. Such grassroots solutions alongside coordinated leadership are essential for tackling urban challenges.

During the launch, two key research presentations focused on urban heat stress in informal settlements and the role of technology in addressing these issues. Experts from civil society, academia, and government participated in discussions, revealing the widespread concern and urgency for action.

The Hub not only sets a benchmark for Bangladesh but also serves as a model for other countries facing the challenges of climate change, urbanization, and social inequality.

In summary, initiatives like the Urban Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction Hub represent critical steps towards making cities safer and more equitable for everyone. As climate impacts worsen globally, the collaboration between research and community-driven initiatives may provide the solutions we need.



Source link