APEC Member Economies Prioritize Robust Early Warning Systems for Disaster Risk Reduction
In an effort to strengthen risk management and advance disaster risk reduction across the Asia-Pacific region, APEC member economies are accelerating the implementation of robust early warning systems. The aim is to provide protection for all communities, particularly the most vulnerable, by the year 2027.
According to a recent United Nations report, 2022 experienced fewer recorded disasters compared to the previous year. However, the impact of these disasters was more severe. Over 140 disaster events occurred in the Asia-Pacific region in 2022, resulting in 7,500 deaths, affecting over 64 million people, and causing an estimated $57 billion in economic damages. The report strongly emphasized the need for economies in the region to make substantial investments in early warning systems.
Yan Guan, co-chair of the APEC Emergency Preparedness Working Group (EPWG), expressed the group’s commitment to the APEC Putrajaya Vision 2040 and the Aotearoa Plan of Action, stating, With APEC leaders leading us to a more sustainable and inclusive development, our group should contribute more. The EPWG aims to enhance the region’s capacity to mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies and natural disasters.
Yan went on to highlight the importance of shifting the policy mindset from post-disaster relief to pre-disaster prevention, comprehensive risk management, and mitigating risks rather than solely reducing losses. This approach becomes especially crucial against the backdrop of mounting and cascading natural hazards.
Officials, private sector representatives, academia, and industry leaders gathered in Seattle on Tuesday to discuss various approaches to early warning systems in the APEC region. They explored the possibility of adopting a regional approach to strengthen disaster preparedness and response capabilities.
One key criterion for an effective early warning system is a robust communication system that enables timely and accurate dissemination of warnings, reaching even rural communities. During the meeting, examples were shared, such as partnering with the private sector, rural communities, and media outlets (including TV, online, and radio channels), leveraging artificial intelligence and big data, and utilizing open source and digital platforms.
Additionally, the meeting addressed the impact of complex emergencies and disaster shocks on the region’s supply chains. Participants explored ways to promote disaster risk reduction in supply chain management.
Cynthia Spishak, the United States Host Economy Representative, emphasized the adaptability of the emergency management workforce and the importance of strategic international partnerships in addressing emergent threats. The EPWG has been actively implementing effective disaster risk reduction and adaptive crisis management efforts throughout the region.
Data governance systems also grabbed attention during the discussions, as they are a key component in strengthening the region’s climate resilience. Currently, there is no standardized approach to collecting, interpreting, and disseminating disaster risk data among APEC economies, indicating a significant opportunity for cross-economy collaboration in this field.
Yan concluded by highlighting the importance of learning from one another to enhance disaster risk reduction planning, saying, I believe we will benefit from and empower ourselves by learning from each other. Ultimately, the goal is to create a region where disaster risks no longer threaten the well-being of people.
By prioritizing the implementation of robust early warning systems, APEC member economies are taking proactive steps to mitigate risks, strengthen disaster preparedness, and ensure the safety and resilience of their communities. Through collaboration, innovative approaches, and international partnerships, the Asia-Pacific region aims to build a future where the impact of disasters is minimized, and the well-being of its people is secured.
