Second of two parts
THE first part of this article said that the link between climate change and urban flooding is a complex issue facing many cities worldwide. Climate change exacerbates urban flooding through various interconnected factors:
Increased temperature and heat waves. Cities tend to be hotter and drier due to human activities and infrastructure, known as the urban heat island effect. This can worsen the impacts of heat waves, affecting precipitation patterns and increasing the likelihood of intense rainfall events that cause flooding.
The author (center) together with the officers and members of the Samahan ng mga Mag-aaral ng Agham Pampulitika of the Unibersidad de Manila. PHOTO BY CLARIZE CHRISTINE DE GUZMAN
Socioeconomic vulnerability. Low-income communities residing in flood-prone areas with inadequate infrastructure are disproportionately affected by urban flooding. Climate change further intensifies these vulnerabilities by increasing the frequency and severity of flooding events.
By understanding and addressing these factors, cities can better prepare for and mitigate the impact of urban flooding caused by climate change. Urban flooding results in significant economic losses, including property damage, infrastructure damage and disruption of economic activities. With the increasing occurrence of flooding due to climate change, the burden on urban areas intensifies.
However, not all flooding can be solely attributed to climate change. Typhoons are natural weather phenomena influenced by various factors, including natural variations in oceanic and atmospheric conditions over time. Some instances of flooding can be attributed to these natural variabilities rather than climate change alone. However, urbanization, deforestation, inadequate infrastructure and poor waste management can worsen flooding irrespective of climate change. Poor drainage systems and changes in land use can contribute to increased runoff and flooding during typhoons.
Historical records indicate that typhoons and associated flooding have been happening for centuries, even prior to the current period of accelerated climate change. This suggests that such events can occur independently of climate change
So, how can we tackle urban flooding? Improving infrastructure is crucial. Enhancing urban drainage systems, constructing flood barriers and retrofitting buildings to withstand flooding can help mitigate the impact of urban flooding.
Nature-based solutions are also essential. Implementing green infrastructure, such as green roofs, permeable pavements and urban wetlands, aids in managing stormwater and reducing runoff.
Policy and planning play a significant role. Integrating climate resilience into urban planning, zoning laws and building codes ensures that new developments are designed to withstand future climate impacts.
Climate change connection
The connection between climate change and urban flooding is clear and multifaceted. As the climate continues to change, governments, communities and stakeholders must coordinate their efforts to build resilient cities capable of enduring the growing threat of urban flooding.
Extreme weather events like intense heat and urban flooding present significant challenges. While resilience is crucial, accountability is equally important for effective disaster management. Accountability makes government agencies and organizations transparent about their actions and decisions. This transparency helps to build trust among affected communities and stakeholders. Holding authorities accountable increases public confidence in disaster response efforts and the responsible institutions.
Accountability ensures that resources allocated for disaster response and recovery are used effectively and efficiently. It helps prevent misuse or mismanagement of funds and resources intended for relief efforts. Regular monitoring and evaluation of disaster response actions ensures the appropriate use of resources and prompt addressing of any gaps or inefficiencies.
Accountability plays a crucial role in the thorough review of actions taken during and after extreme weather events. Holding institutions accountable can lead to necessary policy changes and improvements in disaster management practices. It ensures that lessons learned are incorporated into future planning and implementation.
Accountability ensures that the needs of the most vulnerable populations are addressed and that they receive the support and assistance they need. It helps prevent neglect or unequal distribution of aid and resources, upholding the rights of affected individuals and communities, who will then have avenues to seek redress and justice if they are neglected or wronged during disaster response efforts.
Accountability promotes sustainable recovery efforts by ensuring that actions taken are not just quick fixes but are aimed at long-term resilience and sustainability. It encourages investment in infrastructure, policies and practices that reduce future vulnerabilities. Engaging communities in accountability processes ensures that recovery efforts are community-driven and reflect the actual needs and priorities of those affected.
While resilience is about the capacity to withstand and recover from extreme weather events, accountability ensures that the actions taken to achieve resilience are transparent, just and effective. Both resilience and accountability are crucial in protecting communities, efficiently using resources, learning from past experiences and ensuring sustainable and equitable recovery.
This statement was presented during the Philippine Business for Environmental Sustainability (PBEST) Forum entitled “Transparent Governance for Climate Resilience: Exploring Challenges and Opportunities” held last 29 July 2024 at the AIM Conference Center.
First part was published on Aug. 3, 2024.
The author is the founder and chief strategic adviser of the Young Environmental Forum and a director of Climate Tracker Asia Inc. He completed a climate change and development course at the University of East Anglia (United Kingdom) and an executive program on sustainability leadership at Yale University (USA). You can email at [email protected].
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