Nature values and disaster risk reduction

Time

1.00pm-2.00pm (AEST)

About

The Resilience Matters webinar series will focus on systems, environments and human factors that intersect to influence the varying levels of risk, harm and equity that people experience before, during and after a disaster. 

Presenters from a variety of research, government and community backgrounds will be invited to provide their insights and perspectives as we seek to understand how we can reduce harm in these systems to reduce disaster risk and build resilience.

Throughout the series, we will build on these foundational concepts. Everyone is welcome to attend, whether you are an experienced practitioner or new to these concepts, or somewhere in between.

Look out for new webinars as they are developed and added to the events calendar.

Webinar eight: Nature values and disaster risk reduction

Natural values and biodiversity are increasingly at risk from extreme weather events. Conversely, nature‑based solutions are increasingly recognised for their role in reducing disaster risk and supporting climate adaptation. Yet for many communities, these approaches are not new- they are grounded in long‑standing, place‑based practices that work with natural systems rather than against them.

This webinar will explore the role of nature‑based solutions in disaster risk reduction, the importance of planning for natural values in response and recovery, drawing together evidence, policy insights and on‑the‑ground experience. The session will focus on the value of nature, the impacts of extreme weather on natural systems, and how nature‑based approaches can help reduce risk while delivering social, environmental and economic co‑benefits.

Speakers Dr Bek Christensen, Sarah Hoyal, and Wendy Telfer will share perspectives from across research, national policy and regional practice, with a strong emphasis on place‑based and people‑centred approaches. The discussion will highlight how natural values can be integrated into disaster risk reduction planning and delivery, and what this means for practitioners working across emergency management, land and water management, and climate adaptation.

This webinar will be of interest to practitioners, policymakers and decision‑makers seeking practical insights into applying nature‑based solutions in disaster risk reduction and incorporating natural values into their planning.