News and announcements

'Africa needs to focus on developing strong arguments for COP 18 and beyond based on clear evidence,' told climate change and finance expert, and chief executive of OneWorld, Belynda Petrie, told IPS...

'It was more than a natural disaster, the officials are responsible too,' said a villager of Louzishui in Beijing's southwestern Fangshan district, the area which was hit by a storm and flashflood last weekend.'...

Following the recent drowning deaths of two school children, UNMISS engineers began digging drains and laying culverts. The project aims to eliminate the rainy season’s long-term impact, especially flooded homes and difficulties in reaching school...

'We are working with people of Northern Kenya to strengthen their existing skills and resources. By doing so, they can help themselves become crisis resistant and cope with the effects of climate change more effectively,' said Abdul Haro of Practical Action...

'Many disasters have struck China in recent years. We need to train to be prepared for them now, rather than be taken aback when they arrive,' writes He Hui, deputy director of Public Relations and Public Opinion Institute of the Communication University of China in an opinion piece for the Global Times...

'Now we are starting the next phase of our drought intervention in East Africa', explains Ingo Radtke, Malteser International’s Secretary General. 'Herders will learn how to collect rainwater for drinking, and so make do with the little natural resources they have – when the next drought comes, they will be better prepared'...

'This financial assistance reflects the EU long-lasting commitment and its leading roles in fighting climate change through sustainable adaptation, mitigating its effects and enhancing cooperation with all countries in this significant and global challenge,' said EU Chargé d'Affaires Mr Michel Goffin at an information session organised in Vientiane...

The Insurance Bureau of Canada will test a new flood risk assessment tool in Hamilton. The tool is eventually expected to help residents nationwide to insure their property against flood damage...