[Concept note and session objectivies]

Experts convened to discuss strengthening local implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) through science and technology, by emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced science-policy collaboration for effective local DRR.

Highlights:

Integration: integrating scientific knowledge with local governance and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.

Tailored Tech: developing place-specific technological solutions.

Community Focus: practical implementation insights, and community engagement and education.

Critical Insight & Way Forward:

A core challenge is aligning the differing timelines and priorities of scientists, policymakers, and local actors. Bridging this gap requires:

1. Mutual Effort: Training communities/governments on science concepts, while scientists improve communication of practical applications (e.g., using case studies, simulators).

2. Collaborative Interpretation: Jointly interpreting and communicating even low-confidence scientific findings to inform decisions.

3. Beyond Evidence: Moving beyond simply presenting evidence to collaborative action, considering cost-benefit analysis, and inspiring DRR careers.

4. Participatory Approach: Prioritizing participatory methods over solely relying on academic conferences and literature.

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Moderator

- Dr. Ranit Chatterjee, Co-founder, RIKA

- Helene Jacot Des Combes, Project Manager at International Science Council, France.

Speakers:

- Dr. Ebru Tekin Bilbil, Associate Professor at Özyeğin University, Istanbul, Turkey.

- Prof. Alexander Siegmund, Vice Rector for Research, Sustainability, and Digitization at Heidelberg University.

- Prof. Saini Yang, Executive Director of the Integrated Research on Disaster Risk (IRDR).

- Mr. Dinesh Prasad Bhatt, Chief Executive of Nepal's National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority.

- Dr. Nairwita Bandyopadhyay, Assistant Professor of Geography at Haringhata College, University of Kalyani, India.

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