The closing workshop on the “Enhancing Risk Assessments (ERA) for Improved Country Risk Financing Strategies” project was held in Bangkok, Thailand, with 40 participants from diverse sectors. The project equipped the Thai government partners with advanced risk assessments to support the development of climate change adaptation plans and inform climate and disaster risk financing strategies. Integrating economic, macroeconomic, and non-economic impacts provided a holistic understanding of climate risks. User-friendly software programs such as RISK WISE and the integration of CRED and CLIMADA models enhanced the scope of risk analytics, connecting adaptation strategies to decision-making and introducing innovative methods for data presentation, thereby driving innovation across the project.
The closing workshop aimed to present the project’s outcomes, including risk assessments, projected impacts, and adaptation options on Thailand’s climate hazards, while facilitating discussions on using these findings to guide climate risk management strategies. The workshop brought together high-level officials from the Department of Agriculture, disaster risk management agencies, and academic representatives. The participants examined the impacts of climate risks, such as floods, heatwaves, and droughts, emphasizing understanding their geolocated effects. Detailed maps and data visualizations were presented during the workshop, equipping stakeholders with methods to understand the project results. Participants recognized that while floods remain a primary concern in Thailand, other emerging threats, such as droughts and heatwaves, require equal attention.
The discussions focused on creating adaptation strategies that could be realistically implemented in Thailand. Local leadership emerged as a recurring theme, with participants acknowledging its pivotal role in ensuring the effectiveness and sustainability of adaptation measures and the dissemination of information to the vulnerable population in the country. The central message of the workshop emphasized the importance of collaboration and a holistic approach to climate adaptation.
A key takeaway from the workshop was transforming the project’s recommendations into actionable strategies and exploring practical approaches for their implementation. The discussions also delved into collaborative insights and practical steps to ensure the success of these strategies. Looking ahead, the project’s findings will be shared through translated reports and infographics. The closing workshop in Thailand was a resounding success, fostering meaningful collaboration among stakeholders and providing actionable insights for climate adaptation. As Thailand continues to navigate the complexities of climate risks, the project’s results will serve as a baseline for inclusive and sustainable adaptation strategies.
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