29 SEP 2010: DELTA'S IN TIMES OF CLIMATE CHANGE
AGENDA
Deltas offer abundance. Their soils are rich and well-watered. They link rivers and inland waters to the oceans. They are the centre of economic and cultural activity, and home to more than half the world’s population (see map for a selection of delta regions). Yet climate change poses severe challenges for deltas. As land subsides, sea levels rise, and populations grow, deltas and their cities are becoming more vulnerable. Increased incidence of floods, salt water intrusion and heatwaves threaten the economic vitality and attractiveness of deltas worldwide. Dealing with subsidence and adapting to climate change have become imperative. The need to address these challenges calls for cooperation of deltas worldwide.
At this conference, researchers will exchange the latest scientific insights on topics such as flood risk management, salt water intrusion and governance. In addition, sessions will be organised by and for policy makers, senior political officials, the business community and practitioners. Panels of leading figures from the political and business communities will discuss subjects such as international cooperation and financing mechanisms for adaptation.
Two networks are central to this conference. The first is the Delta Alliance, an international alliance promoting effective cooperation among deltas worldwide. During the conference this new network will be launched. The second network is Connecting Delta Cities. It aims to share best practices between delta cities. Celebrating its second anniversary, it will organise sessions to plan for further cooperation together with the C40 (a group of the world’s largest cities committed to tackling climate change). These networks will link scientists, experts and policymakers, strengthen international cooperation and offer opportunities to develop innovative delta management techniques.
More information: http://www.climatedeltaconference.org