ABSTRACT
Humankind is currently confronting the sixth mass extinction of species in the history of life on Earth, with human activity as the major cause for the first time. Both natural disasters and climate change have been occurring since the beginning of the planet, and recent anthropogenic activities have exacerbated the risk and challenges associated with the same. The idea of planetary boundaries and safe operating limits and the concept of ‘tipping point’ suggest that we have exceeded boundaries in four of nine spheres-climate change, biochemical cycles/flows, land use systems and biosphere integrity. On a regional scale, even more boundaries have been crossed. Scientists, researchers, practitioners and policymakers are now striving to systematically understand these challenges and formulate measures to mitigate them. This chapter presents the global trends of rising disasters and discusses efforts to reduce disaster risks and the imperative to adapt to climate change. It further stresses the need to forge greater synergies among researchers, policymakers and practitioners to be more effective. It also argues for risk-informed planning and programming with greater emphasis on at-risk populations and makes the case for keeping the idea of enhancing social and climate justice at the centre of all efforts.
