By Shashikant Nishant Sharma
Research Head, Track2Training, New Delhi, India
This news update highlights the role of G20 nations in enhancing disaster risk reduction. G20 countries play a crucial role in addressing and mitigating the impact of disasters globally. Here we examines the key initiatives and strategies employed by G20 nations in disaster risk reduction, including policy frameworks, financial commitments, and collaboration mechanisms. It explores the importance of strengthening resilience, promoting early warning systems, and improving disaster preparedness and response capacities. Furthermore, the abstract emphasizes the significance of international cooperation and knowledge sharing in tackling the complex challenges posed by disasters. The aim is to provide insights and recommendations for enhancing global disaster risk reduction efforts.
The G-20 meeting, which included the Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group (DRRWG), highlighted significant opportunities for improving disaster risk reduction worldwide. Participants from various countries, including government officials, industry experts, private sector representatives, and stakeholders, gathered in Mumbai to explore innovative approaches and financing methods for sustainable development. By identifying opportunities and proposing measures, the experts aimed to minimize the impact of disasters on vulnerable communities. Given the increasing number of disasters and climate change-related risks, which result in an Annual Average Loss of $218 billion or 9% of average annual infrastructure investment, the second meeting of the DRRWG in the G-20 becomes highly significant. This meeting provides an opportunity to address the need for financing disaster risk reduction (DRR) through discussions on development finance. The topics covered include public and private financing, social protection, knowledge sharing, and international funding mechanisms for disaster response, recovery, and reconstruction.
Experts emphasized the importance of infrastructure risk assessment tools and data platforms, as well as the adoption of a ‘build back better’ approach that integrates ecosystem-based strategies and involves local communities. The meeting also tackled other important agendas, such as establishing national frameworks, incentivizing private investments, and supporting disaster preparedness, all contributing to the creation of a more resilient future. Comprehensive Risk Assessment is needed for conducting thorough risk assessments that encompass various hazards, vulnerabilities, and exposure levels are essential. This scientific approach helps identify high-risk areas and informs targeted mitigation efforts. Developing and implementing reliable early warning systems enables timely and effective response to potential disasters. These systems should be based on scientific data and advanced technologies to provide accurate and timely alerts to at-risk communities. Recognizing the impact of climate change on disaster risks, integrating climate change adaptation measures into disaster risk reduction strategies is crucial. This involves assessing climate-related risks, implementing adaptive measures, and promoting resilient infrastructure. Recognizing the role of ecosystems in reducing disaster risks, adopting ecosystem-based approaches is essential. Preserving and restoring natural ecosystems such as wetlands, mangroves, and forests can provide natural barriers and buffer against hazards. Implementing and enforcing robust building codes based on scientific knowledge and engineering standards is vital. This includes incorporating measures to enhance structural integrity, seismic resistance, and other relevant factors to minimize the vulnerability of buildings and infrastructure. There is urgent need for promoting scientific knowledge and awareness among the public about disaster risks, preparedness, and response measures is crucial. Effective communication strategies and educational programs can empower communities to make informed decisions and take appropriate actions. Government should focus on encouraging scientific research and development in the field of disaster risk reduction helps generate new knowledge, innovative solutions, and evidence-based practices. This includes funding research initiatives and promoting collaboration among academia, practitioners, and policymakers.
There is need to foster collaboration among governments, international organizations, civil society, academia, and the private sector. Engaging various stakeholders with scientific expertise and diverse perspectives can lead to more effective and sustainable disaster risk reduction measures. Government should promote the sharing of scientific data, information, and best practices across borders and institutions. Open access to relevant data and research findings allows for better understanding, analysis, and informed decision-making in disaster risk reduction. There is need for strengthening scientific and technical capacities at local, national, and regional levels is essential for implementing enhanced disaster risk reduction measures. This includes providing training, resources, and expertise to enable effective risk management and response capabilities within communities and institutions.
In conclusion, adopting enhanced disaster risk reduction measures in a scientific manner is crucial for building resilient communities and mitigating the impacts of disasters. By implementing comprehensive risk assessments, developing early warning systems, integrating climate change adaptation, incorporating ecosystem-based approaches, strengthening building codes, and promoting public awareness, we can make significant progress in reducing disaster risks. Furthermore, investing in research and development, fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration, promoting data sharing and open access, and focusing on capacity building are essential for advancing our understanding of disasters and implementing effective solutions. It is through the application of scientific knowledge, innovation, and collaboration that we can create a safer and more resilient future. By embracing these measures and approaches, we can minimize the devastating impacts of disasters, protect vulnerable communities, and promote sustainable development. Together, let us work towards a world where disaster risk reduction is prioritized and implemented in a scientifically sound manner, ensuring the well-being and safety of present and future generations.
References
Bose, S., & Nanthini, S. (2023). Multilateralism and Disaster Management in the Global South: A Case Study for the G20. Observer Research Foundation, 20.
Dehalwar, K., & Singh, J. (2015). Current State of Water Management System: Case Review of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. International Journal of Civil, Structural, Environmental and Infrastructure Engineering Research and Development (IJCSEIERD), 5(6), 35-40.
Mehraj, T., & Khaki, N. Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction: Role of G20 in Making Sustainable Lifestyle. Youth Participation in Disaster Risk Management and Climate Change Adaptation, 153.
Roy, L. (2024). Role of G20 in attaining sustainable development goals: a review. Edumania-An International Multidisciplinary Journal, 2(1), 60-76.
Shaw, R., & Kishore, K. (2023). Disaster risk reduction and G20: A major step forward. Progress in Disaster Science, 17, 100274.
Sharma, S. N. Flooding in the Yamuna Basin: An Urgent Call for Preventive Measures. Track2Training. https://track2training.com/2025/01/04/flooding-in-the-yamuna-basin-an-urgent-call-for-preventive-measures/
