'People must protect themselves from impact of climate change'

Climate experts, who took part in a two-day workshop here, on Thursday opined that changes in governance and planning processes, and a greater sense of ownership among local bodies to incorporate climate adaptation perspectives are essential.
'People must protect themselves from impact of climate change'

Climate experts, who took part in a two-day workshop here, on Thursday opined that changes in governance and planning processes, and a greater sense of ownership among local bodies to incorporate climate adaptation perspectives are essential.

“The crucial role of science in helping cities understand the impact of climate change is unquestioned.

“However, the accuracy of scientific predictions is dependent on the quality of local data. As a result, scientists might not always be able to give definite answers,” said Professor Javier from the University of the Philippines.

During the workshop, communication emerged as one of the main gaps and, at the same time, one of the main drivers of a proper adaptation strategy.

“Our islands are threatened by rise in sea level. We need to educate our people and make them aware of how they can protect themselves from climate change impacts,” said Male City Mayor Maizan Ali Manik. 

The need for greater communication between all main stakeholders, particularly between science and policy was echoed by Shimla Deputy Mayor Tikendar Panwar, when he said: “A much closer relationship between climate social scientists and urban planners is needed so that urban and economic development takes into account upcoming climate changes.”

The workshop was organised as a part of “Asian Cities Adapt: Impact of climate change in target cities in India and the Philippines and local adaptation strategies”, a project by ICLEI  with the support of  Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU), Government of Germany, through their international climate initiative.

The recommendations and suggestions by experts based on the project will be complied by mid-November.

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