Summer Grab Bag: No, Disasters Aren't "Natural" + Microinfrastructure, Heat and Adaptation Lessons from the Global South

In episode 259 of America Adapts, host Doug Parsons brings together two conversations for an end-of-summer adaptation grab bag. First, Doug talks with Anita Van Breda of World Wildlife Fund about why we should stop using the term "natural disaster." Anita explains the distinction between natural hazards and disasters, and how choices about development, vulnerability, and the environment shape the damage that follows. Doug then speaks with Bishal Thapa of CLASP about the overlooked role of efficient appliances and equipment in climate adaptation. They explore the idea of appliances as "microinfrastructure"—from fans and air conditioners that reduce heat risk to refrigeration, cold storage, and solar water pumps that support food security and livelihoods. They also discuss financing and what adaptation efforts in the Global South can teach the rest of the world.

Transcript of episode available here.

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Links in this episode:

Report: Powering Thriving Communities: Efficient Appliances for Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience

Previous America Adapts Episodes with Anita Van Breda

Flood Management: Nature Based Approaches and International Collaborations

Flooding and Natural and Nature-Based Solutions: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Flooding

Flooding, Climate Change, and Art

Reducing Disaster Risk: The Workforce of the Future

Key Themes Covered in This Episode Why disasters aren't "natural" How human choices shape disaster risk and vulnerability Appliances as climate adaptation "microinfrastructure" Extreme heat, cooling access, and energy efficiency Getting microinfrastructure into adaptation planning Adaptation lessons from the Global South For Educators & StudentsDisaster risk and the language of "natural disasters" Human vulnerability and societal choices Microinfrastructure as climate adaptation Extreme heat and access to cooling Energy efficiency and adaptation Adaptation lessons from the Global South

Who Should Listen to This Episode Climate adaptation professionals Disaster risk reduction practitioners Climate and resilience planners Policymakers and government officials Climate communicators and journalists

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