D15 - On the Forefront of Climate Change: The Pacific Disaster Response

Extreme weather events, exacerbated by climate change, are one of the greatest threats to survival today. While Pacific Island countries produce less than 1% of global emissions, they are at the forefront of these disasters. The ramifications, as experienced most recently by Typhoon Mawar in Guam, have far-reaching effects. In the aftermath, damage to property and interruptions to operations are heavily addressed, while the psychological costs are often neglected. A mental health response, alongside reconstruction, is critical for recovery. This session will discuss the importance of rebuilding and fortifying people just as we do our roads and buildings.