Session Proponent: Linda Stevenson (Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research, Japan);

Session Contributors Yuki Imanari (Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research, Japan); Aiko Seki (Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research, Japan); Patrick Nunn (University of Sunshine Coast, Australia); Amanda Ford (University of South Pacific) Awnesh Singh (University of South Pacific, Fiji): Andreas Neef (Griffith University, Australia); Doug Hill (Otago)

 

Abstract:

This session will provide an in-depth exploration of integrated approaches to climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction and sustainability in the Pacific region. Highlighting the essential role of community involvement and indigenous knowledge in climate change and disaster risk reduction, the session will feature presentations on the latest research and initiatives conducted by the Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research (APN) under its CRRP and CAPaBLE Programmes. Dr Patrick Nunn will present on the “Risk and Resilience in the Pacific” project, which integrates scientific and traditional knowledge to enhance resilience in communities across the Federated States of Micronesia and Fiji. This research examines how geographical peripherality influences exposure to environmental risks and community responses. Dr Amanda Ford will discuss the “Marine Plastics and Indigenous Knowledge” project, which establishes baselines for microplastics in reef-associated food fishes in Fiji, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. The project incorporates Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) into marine policy, aiming to improve livelihood security by addressing marine pollution and promoting sustainable practices. Dr Awnesh Singh will outline the “Capacity Building of NMHS” project, which enhances the technical and analytical capacities of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services staff. By providing training in physical oceanography and quantitative analysis skills, this project aims to improve weather forecasting and disaster preparedness in the region. Prof.  Andreas Neef will explore the “Adaptive Strategies to Gendered Climate Risks” project, focusing on how micro-mobilities and circular migration serve as adaptive strategies in Fiji and Samoa. The project investigates the resilience outcomes of these strategies and their implications for policy development. Through case studies and interactive panel discussions this session fosters knowledge exchange and the development of integrated strategies. Attendees will gain insights into effective approaches for climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and sustainability, with a strong emphasis on local engagement and the utilisation of indigenous knowledge.      

 

Aims of the Session

This session aims to explore and promote integrated approaches to climate change, disaster risk reduction and sustainability in the Pacific region. By emphasising community involvement and indigenous knowledge, the session will highlight the interconnectedness of these themes and their cumulative impact on enhancing resilience in Pacific Island communities. The session seeks to:

1. Foster Collaboration: Encourage knowledge exchange and collaboration among researchers, policymakers, community leaders, and practitioners.
2. Enhance Understanding: Provide a comprehensive understanding of the interconnected challenges and opportunities in climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and sustainability.
3. Promote Local Engagement: Emphasise the importance of community involvement and indigenous knowledge in developing effective strategies.
4. Develop Integrated Strategies: Facilitate the creation of integrated strategies that can be applied in various contexts within the Pacific region.

 

Proposed Session Format

The session will be structured to ensure an engaging and interactive experience for all participants. The format will include:

1. Introduction and Overview (10 minutes):
• Introduction to the session’s objectives and the importance of integrated approaches.
• Brief overview of the Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research (APN) and its work under the CRRP and CAPaBLE programmes, particularly in the Pacific region.
2. Case Studies Presentation (40 minutes):
• Risk and Resilience in the Pacific: Presentation by Dr Patrick Nunn, focusing on integrating scientific and traditional knowledge to enhance community resilience. (APN Project Reference: CRRP2016-03MY-Nunn)
• Marine Plastics and Indigenous Knowledge: Presentation by Dr Amanda Ford, highlighting the establishment of baselines for marine plastics and the incorporation of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) into policy-making. (APN Project Reference: CRRP2022-05MY-Ford)
• Capacity Building of NMHS: Presentation by Dr Awnesh Singh, discussing achievements and goals in enhancing meteorological and hydrological services with community involvement. (APN Project Reference: CBA2023-04MY-Singh)
• Adaptive Strategies to Gendered Climate Risks: Presentation by Dr Andreas Neef, exploring micro-mobilities and circular migration as adaptive strategies in Fiji and Samoa. (APN Project Reference: CRRP2023-02MY-Neef)
3. Interactive Panel Discussion (30 minutes):
• Panel discussion with the project leaders, focusing on common themes, lessons learned, and the importance of local engagement.
• Audience interaction is encouraged through Q&A sessions to delve deeper into specific issues and solutions.
4. Collaborative Kiosks (three 10-minute kiosks):
• Facilitated workshop/Kiosk rotation style where participants will spend 10 minutes at each “discussion kiosk” on a particular topic around integrated strategies based on the presented projects.
• Participants will also be encouraged to share their experiences, challenges and solutions.
5. Wrap-Up (10 minutes):
• Open the floor for questions and comments from the audience.
• Summarise key takeaways from the Panel and Kiosk sessions and outline next steps for continued collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Contributors

The session will attract a diverse range of contributors, including:

• Researchers and academics with expertise in climate change, disaster risk reduction and sustainable development.
• Policymakers and government officials involved in environmental and climate policy in the Pacific region.
• Community leaders and representatives from Pacific Island communities.
• Practitioners and professionals working in disaster management, education and capacity building.
• Representatives from non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and international organisations focused on climate resilience and sustainable development.
• The session will be fully interactive and in hybrid format.

Virtual Contributors

• Prof. Patrick Nunn (Australia): APN Project Lead for “Risk and Resilience in the Pacific.”
• Dr Amanda Ford (Fiji): APN Project Lead for “Establishing Baselines for Marine Plastics and Bridging Indigenous Knowledge with Ocean Policy.”
• Dr Awnesh Singh (Fiji): APN Project Lead for “Capacity Building of the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services.”
• Prof. Andreas Neef (Australia): APN Project Lead for “Moving to Remain in Place: Micro-Mobilities and Circular Migration as Adaptive Strategies to Gendered Climate Risks.”

In-person Contributors

• Dr Linda Anne Stevenson
• Aiko Seki
• Yuki Imanari
• Assoc. Prof. Douglas Hill