Climate Resilience: The Critical Role of Coral Reefs

Event Description: 

2023 was the hottest year on record, with the 1.5 degree Celsius warning limit on temperature breached a number of times. As the climate crisis and average temperatures intensify, so do the frequency and severity of storms, coral bleaching and marine habitat loss. With that, commensurate risks increase to ocean wildlife, food sources and overall environmental security.

 

We know the problems. They are complex and inter-sectoral, and we need to engage across sectors and disciplines for the most impactful solutions.

 

Hear regional experts from defense, academia and civil society share best practices on how the role of satellites, big data and AI made available to all, scientific advances and successful community engagement can create models for practical action and positive outcomes.

 

The webinar will touch on the Allen Coral Atlas, a novel coral conservation tool powered by Arizona State University (ASU) and developed in partnership with coral reef scientists, universities, NGOs, and private entities. The Atlas utilizes high-resolution satellite imagery and advanced analytics to map and monitor the world’s coral reefs in unprecedented detail, informing policy and planning decisions at local and regional levels. Speakers will show how to leverage the Atlas for coral reef protection, with an emphasis on small island developing nations’ pressing climate challenges, including turbidity and reef bleaching. In addition to hearing about the Allen Coral Atlas, the virtual workshop will also hear from four East-West Center alumni and their work towards coral reef protection. 

 

This collaborative webinar is co-convened by the following organizations:

• Indo-Pacific Environmental Security Partnership's Education Working Group
• East-West Center Association Affinity Group: Women, Leadership & Sustainability
• ASU Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Lab and the Allen Coral Atlas
• Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (Small States Branch)
• InterParliamentary Union
• International Universities Climate Alliance