In an effort to facilitate the transition of coastal regions towards sustainable development, the FEC ‘Just Transitions’ Sub-Working Group hosted an event focusing on community-based coastal hazard risk reduction and climate resilient development. The event was hosted in two different time slots on 23 and 24 October to facilitate global participation. Aligned with FEC’s theme of ‘Pathways to Coastal Sustainability,’ the event aimed to empower coastal communities and governing bodies in selecting credible and legitimate pathways for just, resilient, and sustainable coastal development.
Coastal communities, grappling with rising sea levels, biodiversity loss, and multifaceted challenges in public health, food, energy, and water security due to climate change, are accentuating the urgency of readiness in an uncertain future, underlining the crucial need for proactive preparation. The webinar delved into the multifaceted challenges associated with coastal hazard risk reduction and climate resilient development. It provided a platform for in-depth discussions about the barriers and enablers of just transitions in the context of coastal communities.
The webinar was led by FEC Academy Member Prof. Bruce Glavovic as a keynote speaker. Formerly the Chair of Future Earth Coasts, Professor Glavovic, who currently holds the position of Professor at Massey University in New Zealand, has made significant contributions, including pivotal roles in IPCC climate reports and active involvement in the development of South Africa’s foundational White Paper for Sustainable Coastal Development.
Bruce delivered profound insights to the audience from UNESCO’s guidance, which includes a community guide and workbook explicitly crafted to enhance climate resilience. A standout highlight from the webinar was the unveiling of UNESCO’s IOC guidance, accessible at this link (https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000375768). This guidance is specifically designed to empower coastal communities in their efforts to reduce risks and enhance resilience in the face of a rapidly changing climate. These resources are poised to be instrumental in helping communities chart a course toward a more secure and sustainable future. Bruce introduced a four-step mediated approach, fostering collaboration between coastal communities and governing authorities. This approach empowers them to craft innovative, custom-tailored strategies for seamlessly integrating climate resilience into the very core of their institutions.
The FEC ‘Just Transitions’ Sub-Working Group, in collaboration with its partners, will remain dedicated to supporting coastal communities in navigating the challenges of climate change and working towards a resilient and sustainable future. The webinar successfully shed light on the critical issues and pathways for achieving this goal, offering valuable insights for all participants.
Stay tuned for future initiatives and events by FEC ‘Just Transitions’ Sub-Working Group in their ongoing mission to advance ‘Pathways to Coastal Sustainability.’