: Nonprofit organization, the VIEWS conducted a workshop on climate change and disaster risk reduction here on June 3. With support from the Global Greengrant Fund (GGF) USA, the workshop provided an excellent platform for participants to engage in valuable discussions and gain crucial insights into climate change and disaster risk reduction.
The workshop featured a distinguished panel of speakers from various backgrounds. Among them were Prof Anjan Kumar Prusty from Berhampur University, Dr Jacob Thundyil, director of PREM, SK Moorthy, a scientist from the India Meteorological Department in Gopalpur on sea, Lokanath Misra, founder of ARUNA, Prof Ram Prasad Panda, principal of Gopalpur College, Bibhu Prasad Sahu, secretary of YSD, Rabindranath Patra, founder of ISARA, Dr Kumar Prasant, director of VICALP, and Biswa Swarup Das from Dakshin Foundation.
The workshop covered a range of important topics related to climate change including providing a basic understanding of climate change, discussing the specific climate change issues and challenges faced in Ganjam, highlighting the benefits of forecasting for the local community, examining the connection between climate change and migration, exploring the impact of climate change on marine fishing communities, emphasizing the role of youth in climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction, analysing the impact of climate change on water resources and livelihoods, and discussing the importance of community participation in climate change and disaster risk reduction action.
During the interaction with experts, youth from 20 fishing communities in various villages expressed that the depletion of fish is a significant issue they are currently facing due to the impact of climate change. Attendees greatly benefited from a diverse range of sessions and interactive activities specifically designed to enhance their understanding of climate change and its impact on their communities. Knowledgeable experts facilitated discussions on sustainable practices, disaster preparedness, and effective strategies for mitigating the effects of climate change.