[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.
---------------
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.
---------------------
[News brief provided by Lang Lang]
