Maverick Musings #17th
Even with all our technology and the inventions that make modern life so much easier than it once was, it takes just one big natural disaster to wipe all that away and remind us that, here on Earth, we're still at the mercy of nature - Neil deGrasse Tyson
In this edition of Maverick Musings, we are looking at the unfortunate disaster in Wayanad, which tragically underscored the escalating risks of climate change. This catastrophe, which struck the Mundakkai region of Wayanad's Meppadi panchayat, in Kerala, India claimed over 400 lives and left thousands displaced. In the two days leading up to July 30, 2024, the regoion received an overwhelming 572.8 millimeters of rain, with 372.6 millimeters falling on July 30 alone, triggering catastrophic landslides.
The human toll of the disaster is immense. Entire communities were uprooted, with approximately 5,000 people directly affected. The financial cost of the disaster is estimated at around Rs.1,200 crore, though the full extent of the damage may never be fully known.
This landslide is an important reminder of the complex interplay between natural forces and human vulnerability in a rapidly changing climate. Although the disaster occurred in an area with minimal human interference, the combination of extreme weather conditions and the terrain itself played a critical role, according to experts.
The event also highlights the significant role of inequality in both contributing to and being affected by climate change. Developed nations, with their higher carbon footprints, disproportionately contribute to global warming. However, vulnerable communities, like those in Wayanad, bear the brunt of its impacts.
Moreover, extreme carbon inequality is exacerbating the climate crisis, pushing the world closer to exceeding the 1.5°C goal of the Paris Agreement. While many enjoy 'carbon privilege,' the world's poorest 3.5 billion people contribute little to carbon emissions but are most affected by climate impacts such as floods, storms, and droughts.
This inequality is a direct consequence of decades of political choices favoring grossly unequal and carbon-intensive economic growth. The global carbon budget is being rapidly depleted not to lift all of humanity to a decent standard of living but to expand the consumption of a minority of the world's wealthiest people. This injustice is felt most cruelly by two groups:
the world's poorest and most vulnerable people, who are already struggling with climate impacts today,
and future generations who will inherit a depleted carbon budget and an even more dangerous climate.
The Wayanad disaster underscores the urgent need for effective disaster management strategies and climate change mitigation efforts. As climate change accelerates, the frequency and intensity of landslides and other extreme weather events are likely to increase. It is imperative to invest in sustainable development, disaster preparedness, and climate resilience to protect vulnerable communities.
In response to this growing challenge, the Sustera Foundation has developed a participatory climate finance model. We recognize that disasters are becoming more frequent, and communities are increasingly vulnerable to their impacts. Rather than only focusing on providing relief after a disaster strikes, it is far more effective to have a pool of funds in place in advance. This is where the GenRE Collective comes in—a collaborative initiative where individuals contribute monthly donations to create a fund specifically reserved for mitigation and disaster relief activities.
Through this fund, we’ve been able to respond to crises like the Chennai floods, Assam floods, and the floods in Odisha this year. Fortunately, Wayanad has received significant support from philanthropists and garnered attention, but with the rising frequency of disasters, some events are going unnoticed or seen as routine.
If you're looking for a way to make a long-term impact, we strongly encourage you to sign up for the GenRe Collective and contribute to this ongoing effort to build resilience and provide timely relief. SIGN UP HERE
Mastering green skills
Community Engagement and Mobilization skill involves building trust and effectively engaging with marginalized communities to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are met during disaster planning and response. The focus is on understanding the unique vulnerabilities of socially disadvantaged groups and fostering community-led disaster resilience.
Advocacy and Policy Influence involves advocating for policies that address the root causes of social inequality and promote equity in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. The focus is on influencing policymakers to integrate social justice into disaster management frameworks.
Gathering and analyzing data that highlights the differential impacts of disasters on various social groups can enabling targeted interventions. It can also helps to address disparities in disaster impact and recovery among different communities.
Providing culturally sensitive psychological support to individuals and communities is crucial for helping the affected community transition back to normal life. It's important to tailor support services to the specific cultural and social needs of the community to ensure effective recovery and resilience
Follow these DM Experts to learn more:
Seizing opportunities
Here are some opportunities for youth:
The LeadNext: Ambassadors for a Global Future program by The Asia Foundation is a fully funded fellowship that supports emerging leaders aged 18-25 from Asia and the United States. It aims to build a network of globally-minded leaders equipped to address challenges like inequality, climate change, and conflict through leadership training, masterclasses, and mentorship.
Iora Ecological Solutions is hiring a Research Associate for Agriculture and Climate Change to support their climate action initiatives. The role involves research, project management, fieldwork, and developing proposals to expand Iora’s portfolio. C To apply, send your CV to [email protected] with the subject "Research Associate (Agriculture and Climate Change)." Visit their website for more information.
Youth led Initiatives
SEEDS's youth training initiatives for overcoming disasters India has been instrumental in training young people to enhance their roles in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and environmental sustainability. SEEDS comprehensive training programs focus on equipping youth from disaster affected communities with essential skills such as search and rescue, first aid, and the use of fire extinguishers.
Doers.ngo: Trains youth to use tools like Google Earth and Google My Maps for disaster mapping, and to use social media to communicate about risk. They also teach youth how to use mobile apps like Sachet, First Aid, eRaktkosh, and Mausam to stay informed about disasters.
Youth4DRR is a global, dynamic, and collaborative network of youth-led organisations, delegations, and individuals from various backgrounds, all committed to enhancing Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) strategies.
Environment in News
Frequent mass wasting in Tibet a cause for worry in India
The recent study on the Sedongpu Gully in Tibet highlights the increased frequency of mass wasting events since 2017. The rapid warming of the area, which was previously a cold region, is a concerning factor. This geological event poses a potential threat to India's Northeast, as the Sedongpu Gully drains into the Yarlung Tsangpo River, upstream of the Brahmaputra. Read here.
India should consider a ban on microbeads in personal care products, researchers say
Microbeads, a type of microplastic used in personal care products, are harmful to the environment and human health. Many countries have banned their use, but India has not. A recent study found microplastics in 45% of personal care products analyzed in India. The researchers call for better labeling, natural alternatives, or a ban on microbeads in India. Read full article here.
The Arctic is a ticking 'mercury bomb'
The Arctic holds a significant amount of mercury trapped in permafrost. Climate change is thawing the permafrost, which could release this mercury into the environment. Mercury can be toxic and cause health problems in high concentrations. The release of mercury could also disrupt the ecosystem. Read here.
A few insights from our CEO
In a recent article on Medium, Sanju Soman explores the powerful role that behavioral economics can play in inspiring climate action and creating sustainable change. The article looks into how small, strategic nudges can significantly shift behavior without limiting choices, and highlights practical examples of how these insights can be used to foster environmental stewardship and social responsibility. Read here.
We are also thrilled to announce that our CEO, Sanju Soman, recently delivered an inspiring TEDx talk on "5 Ways to Create Climate-Resilient Communities." In his talk, Sanju shares actionable strategies to build stronger, more adaptable communities in the face of climate change. His insights draw from years of experience working on the ground with vulnerable communities and leading climate action programs.
Recent Activities in Sustera
The Marine Awareness Campaign (MAC), a collaborative initiative led by the Sustera Foundation in partnership with the Directorate of Environmental and Climate Change, Suchitwa Mission , the Kerala State Pollution Control Board , and GIZ India , culminated in a prize distribution ceremony held on August 29, 2024, at the DoECC Convention Hall. The campaign aimed to enhance marine conservation and environmental awareness through creative competitions, including wall art, Poster Making, Digital Posters, Logo Design, and a reel contest. The ceremony recognized the innovative efforts of participants. The ceremony recognized the creative efforts of participants and featured distinguished guests such as Suneel Pamidi Director of DoECC; John C Mathew, Environment Programme Manager, DoECC; Vinod TR , Program Director at the Centre for Environment Development (CED); and Baiju P , Senior Program Officer at CED, Plastic Fischer; Govind A and Jayasree from Greenworms; Gowri Ganesh of Plastic FIscher. The event celebrated the collaborative efforts of all involved organizations, reinforced the importance of marine conservation, and highlighted the role of creative initiatives in fostering environmental awareness and community engagement.
Five climate leaders trained by the Sustera Foundation have set up a 2-kilowatt rooftop solar power system at Chayoth Anganwadi in Kinanur-Karinthalam grama panchayat. The project will make the anganwadi self-sufficient in energy and generate additional income. The on-grid solar power system was set up at Rs 2.5 lakh. Aliya Muhammed , Aditya Sarath , Alfred S , SARATH M and Saranya SV raised the money from Keyvalue System Solutions. Sustera Foundation's Gen-Re Collective and CLAN-30 pitched in to set up the solar system at the Anganwadi. Read more here.
That's all folks from our side!💪
Thank you for joining us. Until next time, keep driving positive change!