Humanitarian Networks and Partnerships Weeks

Session title: Scaling Up Nature-based Solutions in Humanitarian Contexts: Consultative Session

Organizer(s): IUCN, Sphere, IFRC

8 May 24 09:00-12:00 UTC+2 (Pleniere A)

SessionAbstract

Increasing disaster risk, fueled by climate change and environmental degradation, is pushing the humanitarian sector's capacity to its limits. Addressing this challenge urgently requires innovative approaches to mitigate risks and preserve lives.

Nature-based solutions (NbS) offer a vital strategy by reintegrating environmental considerations into humanitarian efforts. To effectively deploy NbS within humanitarian contexts—whether in fragile environments, protracted crises, or rapid-onset disasters—collaborative multi-sectoral partnerships and enhanced resource mobilization are essential. Moreover, bolstering capacities for NbS implementation, alongside strategic advocacy and awareness initiatives supported by robust evidence, is key to harnessing the potential of nature in humanitarian action.

In 2024, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Sphere, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) are building on the progress from the 2023 debut of our pivotal guide,‘A Sphere Unpacked Guide: Nature-based Solutions for Climate Resilience in Humanitarian Action’.

We invite you to participate in our consultative session - which is divided into two parts:

1. Technical Session (9:00 - 10:30): An interactive workshop focused on understanding and implementing NbS and Sphere standards within humanitarian contexts. This hands-on session will demonstrate practical applications of NbS across different humanitarian scenarios, fostering exchange of knowledge and experiences amongst participants.

2. Panel Discussion (11:00 - 12:00): A dynamic panel exploring strategies to scale up NbS in humanitarian action. This discussion will feature insights from leading experts in the field, fostering dialogue on how these solutions can reduce risk.

Join us to contribute your insights and explore how NbS can create tangible impacts in humanitarian settings. Your participation is crucial as we aim to transform these innovative ideas into actions.

Speakers

Facilitators

William Anderson joined Sphere as Executive Director in 2023. Prior to this he worked forChristian Aid in Africa for eight years with a particular focus on humanitarian action in conflict contexts; conservation agriculture and human rights. He directed Medair’s international operations from its head office in Lausanne for a decade. William has led numerous emergency response teams working directly with communities affected by crisis, most recently in Mozambique, Ethiopia, Moldova and Ukraine. He has experience with several NGOs including the Norwegian Refugee Council and INTERSOS on for example humanitarian policy and Middle East regional programming.

Verónica Ruiz is IUCN's Programme Manager for Climate and Disaster Resilience. She supports IUCN's global initiatives on Nature-based Solutions and climate-nature nexus through strategic application of ecosystem-based approaches to combat climate change and minimise disaster risks. Additionally, she plays a key role in expanding IUCN's climate and disaster resilience portfolio and scope by nurturing innovative collaborations and building trustworthy partnerships.

Axel Schmidt is Emergency Response Coordinator for Arbeiter-Samariter-Bundand a Sphere Focal Point in Germany,

Axel Schmidt is not too smart and a bit naïve, he still believes that a power shifting, people-centred, from voices to choices and inclusive humanitarian approach can make a difference. He often fails since he entered the sector 15 years ago, but tries his best as a human being, as ASB’s Emergency Response Coordinator, as a RedR Associate Trainer, Sphere Trainer and Focal Point Germany and ReflACTIONeer.

Speakers

Vanda Lengkong is the Regional Head of Disaster Risk Management for Plan International Asia Pacific. A professional humanitarian worker with more than 20 years experience in the sector, she oversees the portfolio of humanitarian work, Disaster Risk Reduction, Climate Change Adaptation and school safety in 15 countries in the region; promotes a gender transformative approach in DRM work and has been deployed in a number of large scale emergencies as Emergency Response Manager/Specialist. Since December 2021 she has represented Plan International on Sphere’s Governing Board.

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