Human-induced climate change is a pressing global issue, with profound implications for ecosystems, economies, and societies. Addressing this crisis requires urgent and coordinated global action to mitigate impacts and enhance resilience.
In response to this challenge, Fudan University (China) hosted the inaugural International Summer School on Climate Change and Related Risks from July 21 to August 8, 2024. Supported by the World Meteorological Organization, the Monitoring, Analysis, and Prediction of Air Quality International Research Program (MAP-AQ), and the Integrated Research on Disaster Risk International Program (IRDR), this program brought together early-career researchers from diverse disciplines worldwide. It immersed participants in cutting-edge research and lectures, enabling them to explore the complexities of climate change and develop innovative solutions.
Among the distinguished participants was Mr. Gabriel C. Tan, a Senior Research Associate at the UP Resilience Institute (UPRI). Mr. Tan, the sole Filipino delegate, was awarded a scholarship to attend this intensive three-week program. His participation underscores UPRI’s commitment to advancing climate and disaster resilience and fostering the next generation of resilience leaders.
During the summer school, Mr. Tan collaborated with researchers from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (China), National Institute of Technology Patna (India), Sam Ratulangi University (Indonesia), Fudan University (China), and Renmin University of China (China) on a mini project examining the health impacts of climate change. Their project, which assessed the effects of extreme heat events on years of healthy life lost in Indonesia, earned third place among 15 competing teams.
The summer school featured lectures from internationally acclaimed scholars and officials, including representatives from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, MAP-AQ, IRDR, and contributors to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) assessment reports. The curriculum covered critical topics such as climate change risks, governance, health impacts, and the role of AI in disaster management.
The International Summer School on Climate Change and Related Risks not only provided valuable insights and hands-on experience for emerging researchers but also reinforced the importance of global collaboration in addressing climate change. By fostering an environment of learning and cooperation, the program has empowered participants like Mr. Tan to contribute meaningfully to the fight against climate change. As we move forward, the knowledge and networks gained from this summer school will be instrumental in shaping innovative solutions and driving progress in climate resilience and disaster management.
