As the urgency to address climate change intensifies, practitioners and researchers from all corners of Australia have gathered in Adelaide for the much-anticipated Climate Adaptation 2023 conference, starting today and held at the Adelaide Convention Centre.
With the aim of fostering discussions on research findings, planning processes, and practical actions to adapt to the effects of climate change, the conference has attracted representatives from various sectors, including industry, government, academia, emergency management, and insurance.
Following the successful inaugural Industry Climate Change Conference held in April, Climate Adaptation 2023 continues the momentum towards comprehensive climate adaptation strategies in South Australia. The state has been taking bold steps in embracing renewable energy sources, with a remarkable 72 percent of its electricity currently being generated from renewable sources, making it a global leader in this area.
Acting Premier Susan Close is opening the three day event and is excited about bringing together other guest speakers to discuss this important topic. ‘This conference is a great opportunity for experts to share their knowledge and experience to help strengthen the growing community of adaptation research and practice in Australia.’
Distinguished speakers at the conference include Senator Jenny McAllister, the Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Dr. Pep Canadell, the Executive Director of the Global Carbon Project at CSIRO, Professor Lesley Hughes, founding Councillor of the Climate Council of Australia, Andrew Hall, CEO of the Insurance Council of Australia, and Professor Nicola Spurrier, Chief Public Health Officer at SA Health.
One of the primary objectives of Climate Adaptation 2023 is to address South Australia’s ambitious targets for emissions reduction. The state is committed to achieving at least a 50 percent reduction in net emissions by 2030, based on 2005 levels, with the ultimate goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.
These targets reflect the state’s commitment to combating climate change and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. ‘South Australia was the first state to declare a climate emergency, and we are committed to building science-based policies that can prepare South Australia for the realities of climate change,’ says acting Premier Susan Close.
The conference serves as a platform for diverse stakeholders to exchange ideas, share best practices, and form collaborations that will drive innovative and practical solutions to tackle climate challenges. Experts believe that by bringing together expertise from different sectors, meaningful progress can be made in developing holistic climate adaptation strategies that take into account various facets of society and the environment.
With Adelaide’s rich cultural heritage and commitment to sustainability, the city provides an ideal backdrop for Climate Adaptation 2023. Attendees will have the opportunity not only to engage in valuable discussions but also to experience the city’s efforts to integrate renewable energy and green initiatives into its urban planning.
As the conference unfolds over the next three days, the nation looks to Adelaide as a beacon of hope and inspiration, fostering a collective determination to adapt to the ever-changing climate and safeguard the future of our planet. With innovative ideas and fruitful collaborations expected to emerge from this event, Climate Adaptation 2023 is poised to play a pivotal role in steering Australia towards a more resilient and sustainable future.
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