IDRiM Podcast

Summary:The International Society for Integrated Disaster Risk Management (IDRiM) is pleased to announce the Call for Nominations for the IDRiM Outstanding Dissertation Award. This award aims to recognize and encourage outstanding early-career researchers whose doctoral dissertations have made significant and original contributions to the field of Integrated Disaster Risk Management (IDRiM). Through this award, IDRiM seeks to promote high-quality doctoral research and to support the international visibility and career development of promising young scholars. Co-Hosts:Dr. Mark Ashley Parry (Northumbria University, UK)Dr. Haris Rahadianto (Lund University, Sweden)Music:“Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Summary:This podcast episode explores the International Awareness Day for Avoidable Deaths (IAD4AD) through a discussion with Vishal Pathak from the All India Disaster Mitigation Institute (AIDMI) in Ahmedabad, India. As a member of the Avoidable Deaths Network (ADN), AIDMI focuses on extreme heat as a highly preventable public risk. Vishal shares how Ahmedabad became a leading example through early recognition of heat as a health and disaster issue, strong collaboration with municipal authorities, and the development of a Heat Action Plan. The episode reinforces the campaign’s core message that avoidable deaths are shaped by choices made in advance, not by fate.The conversation highlights AIDMI’s work with populations most exposed to extreme heat, particularly women-led small businesses and transportation workers. By promoting the use of early heat forecasts, community awareness, and anticipatory action, the campaign aims to help people protect their health, livelihoods, and daily activities before temperatures peak. Rather than a one-day event, IAD4AD is presented as an ongoing process of learning, coordination, and action, encouraging listeners worldwide to share experiences and strengthen local efforts to prevent deaths from extreme heat. Guest:Mr. Vishal Pathak (All India Disaster Mitigation InstituteHost:Dr. Haris Rahadianto (Lund University, Sweden)Music:“Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Summary:This episode explores the global initiative International Awareness Day for Avoidable Deaths (IAD4AD) and the work of the Avoidable Deaths Network (ADN), which aims to reduce preventable deaths linked to disasters and extreme events. Launched in 2023 in Japan, the campaign runs annually and is designed as a long-term effort, with activities taking place throughout March to allow global participation.The discussion highlights ADN’s focus on indirect disaster-related deaths, such as those caused by heatwaves, snakebites, or gaps in healthcare, which are often overlooked in official records. The campaign is guided by three main goals: making these deaths more visible, understanding the systems and circumstances behind them, and reinforcing the message that disaster deaths are not inevitable.Examples from several regions show how communities adapt the campaign locally, from school-based tsunami education to university research projects, student rallies, and outreach to vulnerable groups facing heat or environmental risks. Rather than prescribing specific actions, ADN encourages flexible, grassroots participation under the idea of “doing one thing” to raise awareness or reduce risk.A central theme is public involvement. The episode stresses that ordinary people can contribute by questioning why deaths occur, learning from local experiences, and advocating for better preparedness and response systems. Looking ahead, the campaign aims to reach more countries and expand opportunities for engagement through events, educational materials, and coordinated action, ending with a call for listeners to help spread the message that many disaster-related deaths can be prevented.Websites:https://www.avoidable-deaths.net/https://iad4ad.avoidable-deaths.net/Guests:Prof. Nibedita Ray-Bennett (University of Leicester, United Kingdom)Dr. Hideyuki Shiroshita (Kansai University, Japan)Co-Hosts:Dr. Irene Petraroli (University of Twente, Netherlands)Dr. Haris Rahadianto (Lund University, Sweden)Music:“Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Abstract:In this 50th-episode anniversary special, hosts Haris Rahadianto and Mark Ashley Parry reflect on the first year of the IDRiM podcast, tracing its origins, early uncertainties, and unexpected growth from a tentative experiment into a sustained international platform for disaster research discussion. They revisit the original aims, making research more accessible, spotlighting early-career scholars, and engaging senior academics, while candidly assessing concepts that proved difficult to sustain, such as rapid post-disaster reports and documentary-style series.The conversation highlights memorable moments from behind the scenes, including technical failures, time-zone-spanning interviews, live recordings at conferences, and the evolving co-hosting dynamic shaped by their contrasting disciplinary perspectives. Looking ahead, the hosts outline ambitious plans for 2026: multi-episode disaster retrospectives, collaborations with external networks, expansion to a rotating team of co-hosts, and increased on-site recordings at global events.Amid personal challenges prompting a temporary hosting break for Mark Ashley, the episode closes with optimism about broadening the podcast’s reach, diversifying voices and expertise, and strengthening production and promotion—raising a toast to the next 50 episodes and the podcast’s future within the global disaster research community.

Abstract:Conventional, top-down approaches have dominated disaster risk reduction (DRR) initiatives for decades, with central governments coordinating disaster preparation and recovery efforts, fortifying coasts, and building large-scale gray infrastructure such as levees and seawalls to mitigate potential threats. Critics have questioned the usefulness and applicability of this strategy, especially given the mixed results from recent shocks, including Japan’s 3/11 triple disasters. To investigate the degree to which experts in the field embrace traditional or alternative DRR models, we conducted 15 in-depth interviews with DRR specialists from the U.S. and Japan and systematically coded their responses using the NVivo software. Three key themes emerged from our analysis: 1) Leveraging community-based DRR and addressing issues such as tokenism; 2) prioritizing support networks; and 3) harmonizing top-down and bottom-up structures where national planning and local efforts are synergized, and decision-making is conducted through multi-stakeholder participation. Our results suggest that top-down policies alone cannot control disaster response; rather, a more inclusive governance structure that makes use of both institutional capacity and local knowledge will enhance DRR moving forward.Link to Paper: https://www.idrimjournal.com/article/140543-empowering-communities-a-bottom-up-approach-to-disaster-risk-reductionGuest:Shalini S Matharage [Northeastern University, United States]Host: Dr. Mark Ashley Parry [Northumbria University, United Kingdom]Music:“Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Abstract: This discussion examines the catastrophic floods and landslides that struck Sumatra, Indonesia in late 2025, affecting millions across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. Joined by members of U-INSPIRE Indonesia, the conversation traces how prolonged heavy rainfall escalated into large scale flash floods and landslides, overwhelming infrastructure, isolating communities, and destroying homes and livelihoods. The speakers explore how a rare tropical cyclone intensified rainfall and why early warnings failed to translate into effective preparedness or evacuation on the ground. The discussion goes beyond the immediate disaster to examine deeper systemic causes, including deforestation, land use change, governance failures, and gaps between national forecasts and local readiness. It addresses the national government response, challenges in aid distribution, conditions in evacuation shelters, risks of secondary health crises, and growing public frustration and loss of trust in authorities. Emphasizing community led responses, local knowledge, and the need for stronger prevention and mitigation policies, this episode offers a critical reflection on how complex disasters unfold and what must change to reduce the risk of similar tragedies in the future.Link to Yale Study: https://climatecommunication.yale.edu/publications/climate-change-in-the-indonesian-mind/toc/2/#:~:text=Executive%20Summary,norms%2C%20values%2C%20activism).Guests:Oka Agastya [U-INSPIRE Indonesia, Indonesia]Iwan Pramesit Anwar [U-INSPIRE Indonesia, Indonesia]Hilman Arioaji [U-INSPIRE Indonesia, Indonesia]Giovanni Cynthaia Pradipta [U-INSPIRE Indonesia, Indonesia]Co-Hosts:Dr. Mark Ashley Parry [Northumbria University, United Kingdom]Dr. Haris Rahadianto [Lund University, Sweden]Music: “Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Abstract:This podcast episode examines the rare and devastating floods that struck Sumatra between 21 and 30 November, bringing together experts from the Bandung Institute of Technology to explain the event from meteorological and disaster risk perspectives. The discussion explains how a tropical disturbance that first formed on 21 November developed into an unusually rare cyclone near the equator, peaked around 25 November, and produced extreme rainfall across Aceh, West Sumatra, and North Sumatra. While the cyclone acted as the immediate trigger, the speakers emphasize that long standing vulnerabilities, including deforestation, land use change, settlement in floodplain areas, and limited disaster preparedness, significantly amplified the impacts. The episode concludes that although this cyclone was exceptional, flood risk in Indonesia is recurrent and likely to intensify with climate change, highlighting the urgent need for stronger spatial planning, effective early warning responses, improved community awareness, and sustained investment in disaster risk reduction.Guests:Dr. Muhammad Rais Abdillah [Bandung Institute of Technology, Indonesia]Prof. Saut Sagala [Bandung Institute of Technology, Indonesia]Co-Hosts:Dr. Mark Ashley Parry [Northumbria University, United Kingdom]Dr. Haris Rahadinto [Lund University, Sweden]Music: “Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Abstract:Catastrophic flooding has been noted to occur with greater frequency following deforestation, but limited observations have been available to test this connection over large spatial scales. Here we used the data of mega forest fires impacting a region of 25,000 km2 in Australia exhibiting rapid loss in forest canopy, where the runoff generation has been carefully observed with minimum anthropogenic influences for more than half a century. This provides a unique opportunity to assess the impact of the forest canopy loss on large-scale fluvial flooding. A state-controlled hypothesis test, with the climate and watershed states controlled to enhance robustness, shows a statistically significant increase in annual maximum flows resulting from the forest loss treatment. The reasoning for this natural experiment is that the forest loss impact on the interception potential of forest canopy, fallen leaves, and root-zone soils in wide region could have a recognizable impact on the fluvial flood.Link to Paper: https://doi.org/10.1038/s43247-025-02748-6Guest:Prof. Ashish Sharma [University of New South Wales, Australia]Co-Hosts:Dr. Mark Ashley Parry [Northumbria University, United Kingdom]Dr. Haris Rahadianto [Lund University, Sweden]Music:“Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Summary of Episode:The episode features Dr. Haris Rahadianto and Dr. Mark Ashley Parry reflecting on the 2025 IDRiM Conference held on the Greek island of Samos. They begin by describing the challenging travel logistics and storms that highlighted Samos’s isolation, an appropriate context for a conference centered on island resilience five years after the island’s major earthquake. Both note the continuing visible damage on Samos and how the setting reinforced the meeting’s theme of disaster recovery in remote regions. They discuss their research presentations: Dr. Parry’s on climate-change perception and nihilism in disasters, and Dr. Rahadianto’s on systemic risk and complex adaptive systems. Each appreciated the opportunity for deeper theoretical and interdisciplinary dialogue. They also praised the conference organization, particularly the creative use of municipal venues that blended history and local culture, though they noted the distance between rooms and long daily schedules as challenges. The pair commend initiatives such as partner activities, poster sessions linked to art exhibits, and the Young Scientists Session (YSS), whose 2025 winners—all women—reflected growing gender equity in disaster-risk research. Both highlight the need for shorter, less intense days, better signage and accessibility, and greater community engagement and local-language sessions in future events. The podcast y close by hinting at upcoming changes to the podcast format and express enthusiasm for the society’s evolving outreach and inclusiveness.Co-Hosts: Dr. Mark Ashley Parry [Northumbria University, United Kingdom] Dr. Haris Rahadianto [Lund University, Sweden]Music: "Sunset" by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.Photos: © Dr. Mark Ashley Parry [2025]

Background:Prof. Nibedita Ray-Bennett is a Professor of Risk Management at the University of Leicester, United Kingdom, and the founding President of the Avoidable Deaths Network. Her research focuses on disaster risk reduction, public health emergencies, and the social dimensions of avoidable deaths. She has worked extensively on improving policy and practice in disaster and health systems, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Prof. Ray-Bennett is internationally recognised for pioneering interdisciplinary approaches to reducing avoidable deaths in crises.Dr. Hideyuki Shiroshita is an Associate Professor at Kansai University in Japan, specialising in disaster education, risk communication, and community resilience. His research explores how education and public engagement can enhance preparedness and reduce disaster-related mortality. Dr. Shiroshita has collaborated on numerous international projects to promote disaster risk literacy and effective early warning systems. He serves as Co-President of the Avoidable Deaths Network, contributing his expertise in Japanese and global disaster management practices.The Avoidable Deaths Network (ADN) is a global initiative dedicated to reducing deaths that could be prevented during disasters, conflicts, and public health emergencies. Founded in 2018, the network connects academics, policymakers, and practitioners to share knowledge, research, and best practices. ADN works across disciplines and countries to identify the root causes of avoidable deaths and promote evidence-based interventions. Its mission aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to health, safety, and disaster resilience.Guests:Prof. Nibedita Ray-Bennett (University of Leicester, United Kingdom)Dr. Hideyuki Shiroshita (Kansai University, Japan)Co-Hosts:Dr. Mark Ashley Parry (Northumbria University, United Kingdom)Dr. Haris Rahadianto (Lund University, Sweden)Music: “Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Abstract of Paper: A key element in risk management in countries susceptible to experiencing natural hazards is facilitating preparedness. While several theories of preparedness have been developed, they have emerged in countries that are culturally individualistic. Recognition of the fact that the majority of disasters occur in countries that are predominantly collectivistic has identified a need to test the cross cultural applicability of theories of preparedness. This paper discusses some preliminary work on the cross cultural applicability of Paton’s (2008) community engagement theory. Following a discussion of the cross cultural face validity of the content of this theory, the paper discusses evidence of cross cultural applicability of the theory using data from New Zealand, Japan, Indonesia and Taiwan. The results suggest that, irrespective of culture, the more citizens are able to collectively formulate their risk management needs and strategies and the more they perceive their needs as having been met through their relationship with civic agencies, the more likely they are to trust them and the information they provide, and to use information to decide to adopt hazard preparation measures.Link to Paper: https://www.idrimjournal.com/article/11700Guest: Prof. Saut Sagala [Institute of Technology Bandung, Indonesia]Co-Hosts:Dr. Mark Ashley Parry [Northumbria University, United Kingdom]Dr. Haris Rahadianto [Lund University, Sweden]Music: “Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Background:Fengyi Sun is a researcher and sustainability professional trained at Kyoto University, where he completed his Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering with a focus on disaster risk management and environmental economics. During his time at the university’s Disaster Prevention Research Institute, he contributed to projects on Natech risk and social vulnerability, including developing a multi-hazard risk assessment framework for communities in Colombia. He currently works as a Sustainability Specialist at UD Trucks, applying his research experience to support sustainable and resilient industrial practices.Guest:Mr. Fengyi Sun (Kyoto University, Japan)Host:Dr. Haris Rahadianto (Lund University, Sweden)Music: “Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Background:Dr. Dimitrios Tzioutzios is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim, working in the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering within the RAMS research group. His research focuses on technological risk, community resilience, and sustainable energy systems, with particular interest in Natech accidents, risk communication, and the safety and acceptance of hydrogen infrastructure.He earned his Diploma in Spatial Planning and Development Engineering from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in Greece, and completed his Master’s and PhD in Urban Management at Kyoto University in Japan. His doctoral work explored how citizens understand and communicate Natech risks, using comparative studies and serious games to improve community engagement.At NTNU, Dr. Tzioutzios contributes to international projects such as the SUSHy Project, which promotes safer and more sustainable hydrogen technology. He has published widely in journals including the International Journal of Disaster Risk Science and the International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction. His work bridges engineering and social science, helping to build stronger connections between researchers, policymakers, and the public in managing risk and resilience.Guest: Dr. Dimitrios Tzioutzios [Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway]Co-Hosts:Dr. Mark Ashley Parry [Northumbria University, United Kingdom]Dr. Haris Rahadianto [Lund University, Sweden]Music: “Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Background to the Conference:The 15th International Conference of the Integrated Disaster Risk Management (IDRiM) Society (IDRiM2025), titled “Advancing disaster risk reduction in islands and remote areas”, highlights the distinct risk environments and multifaceted challenges faced by islands and remote areas. In this context, the conference places accessibility (physical, social, economic, institutional, etc.) at the center examining its impact on disaster prevention and mitigation, emergency response, and disaster recovery in the era of climate crisis and globalization.Remote areas, such as small islands, peninsulas, forest and rural communities, and mountainous regions, are often characterized by their geographic isolation, limited infrastructure, forced self-reliance, and fragile ecosystems. These regions face significant challenges in disaster risk reduction and management, including difficulties in accessing resources and services, and weak connection to emergency management systems. Communication barriers and fragmented governance structures further hinder communication and coordination among stakeholders, and challenge access to critical information. Additionally, the impacts of climate change and globalization exacerbate vulnerabilities, making it essential to develop and implement adaptive, sustainable, and locally tailored solutions to reduce risks and enhance resilience.Addressing disaster risks in complex and resource-constrained settings often reveals critical implementation gaps. To bridge these gaps, emphasis is placed on the pivotal role of implementation science, which integrates research, policy, and practice to develop adaptive, collaborative, and participatory solutions for disaster risk management. Implementation science enables the systematic identification of barriers to effective action and the development of tailored strategies to overcome them, ensuring that interventions are context-specific and feasible. Additionally, it fosters continuous learning through iterative processes, allowing stakeholders to refine their approaches based on real-time feedback and evolving conditions. By focusing on the practicalities of implementing integrated disaster risk management, the conference invites the scientific community, decision-makers, and practitioners to explore strategies for disaster risk reduction and management in contexts where access to locations, infrastructure, services, resources, funding, information, and knowledge is limited, intermittent, or constrained.To this end, IDRiM2025 encompasses the following topics, preferably focusing on islands and remote areas although other contributions, for example concerning urban areas, will be also considered.Guest:Prof. Miranda Dandoulaki (Harokopio University of Athens, Greece)Co-Hosts:Dr. Mark Ashley Parry [Northumbria University, United Kingdom]Dr. Haris Rahadianto [Lund University, Sweden]Music: "Sunset" by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Abstract:This paper discusses the multifaceted perceptions of climate change within the United Kingdom. Whilst the understanding of anthropogenic climate change has gained prominence in more recent decades, especially in relation to greenhouse gas processes, its conceptual roots can be traced back to ancient Greek observations. Today, climate change is recognised as a significant environmental, societal, and economic challenge. This paper draws from both primary and secondary data to highlight how the perception of climate change varies widely amongst the British public. It is influenced by different factors such as political identity, gender, age, and other socio-demographic influences. Data obtained indicates that politically left-leaning voters and females are generally more likely to acknowledge the severity of climate change compared to their right-leaning and male counterparts. A critical focus is placed on the youth, as their perceptions and engagement are pivotal for long-term climate action. Despite this, there remains a gap in research concerning youth involvement with climate change. Therefore, it can be underscored that enhanced climate education should empower the younger next generation and promote active engagement in climate change action. Meanwhile, the terminology which is used in climate change discussions can significantly alter youth and wider public engagement, with terms such as “global warming” and “climate emergency” evoking varying levels of concern. Overall, these findings emphasise the importance of integrating scientific knowledge into public perception of climate change to develop both effective and sustainable climate change policies that can be acted upon more widely.Paper: https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-981-96-6609-6_22Guest: Dr. Mark Ashley Parry [Northumbria University, United Kingdom]Host: Dr. Haris Rahadianto [Lund University, Sweden]Music: “Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Abstract:This paper discusses the multifaceted perceptions of climate change within the United Kingdom. Whilst the understanding of anthropogenic climate change has gained prominence in more recent decades, especially in relation to greenhouse gas processes, its conceptual roots can be traced back to ancient Greek observations. Today, climate change is recognised as a significant environmental, societal, and economic challenge. This paper draws from both primary and secondary data to highlight how the perception of climate change varies widely amongst the British public. It is influenced by different factors such as political identity, gender, age, and other socio-demographic influences. Data obtained indicates that politically left-leaning voters and females are generally more likely to acknowledge the severity of climate change compared to their right-leaning and male counterparts. A critical focus is placed on the youth, as their perceptions and engagement are pivotal for long-term climate action. Despite this, there remains a gap in research concerning youth involvement with climate change. Therefore, it can be underscored that enhanced climate education should empower the younger next generation and promote active engagement in climate change action. Meanwhile, the terminology which is used in climate change discussions can significantly alter youth and wider public engagement, with terms such as “global warming” and “climate emergency” evoking varying levels of concern. Overall, these findings emphasise the importance of integrating scientific knowledge into public perception of climate change to develop both effective and sustainable climate change policies that can be acted upon more widely.More Information:https://yougov.co.uk/politics/articles/50971-what-do-reform-uk-voters-believe-on-climate-changehttps://www.lse.ac.uk/granthaminstitute/news/gb-news-broadcast-almost-1000-anti-climate-attacks-before-and-after-2024-election/ Paper: https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-981-96-6609-6_22Guest: Dr. Mark Ashley Parry [Northumbria University, United Kingdom]Host: Dr. Haris Rahadianto [Lund University, Sweden]Music:  “Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Abstract:The emphasis of integrated disaster and risk research has shifted from topical analysis, such as dealing with natural hazard-related disasters, technological accidents, or environmental crises, to a comprehensive analysis of interconnected and mutually interactive risk sources and crises. This interaction has often been framed in the language of “polycrisis” indicating the potentially amplifying and cascading effects of each crisis from one domain to the next. At the same time, the literature on systemic risk also includes the effects of multiple, interacting risks on the functionality and survivability of entire systems such as climate stability, cybersecurity, or energy production. This review article provides first a summary of the literature on both concepts, explicates the commonalities and differences and develops a risk and crisis concept that builds a bridge between the two research traditions. Based on this concept, the review delineates the implementations of a joint understanding of polycrisis and systemic risk for risk assessment, risk and crisis governance, and effective communication to different audiences.Link to Paper: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13753-025-00636-3Guests:Dr. Huan Liu (Kyoto University, Japan)Prof. Ortwin Renn (Research Institute for Sustainability, Germany)Co-Hosts:Dr. Mark Ashley Parry [Northumbria University, United Kingdom]Dr. Haris Rahadianto [Lund University, Sweden]Music: “Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Summary:In this concluding episode of the IDRiM Podcast’s GADRI2025 recap series, Ashley Parry sits down with Professor John van de Lindt, local host and Co-Director of the NIST-funded Center of Excellence for Risk-Based Community Resilience Planning, to reflect on a landmark summit held for the first time outside of Japan.The episode opens with a discussion of the significance of hosting GADRI in Fort Collins, Colorado, not only a geographical milestone but also a symbolic shift toward a more global and inclusive identity. Professor van de Lindt speaks to the challenges and triumphs of bringing the 10th anniversary event to life, emphasizing the importance of blending technical sessions with informal, human-centered moments, like jazz at the closing reception and “lunch with keynote speakers,” which fostered dialogue between early-career researchers and established experts.The summit’s theme, “Converging Disaster Research and Stakeholder Engagement for Resilience,” was unpacked through three main strands: convergence, engagement, and fundamental research. Across the plenary sessions, keynote speakers tackled how to integrate multidisciplinary methods with community involvement, navigate complex data ethics, and link fundamental research to policy change. Particularly powerful was the concept of participatory convergence, a model where stakeholders are not just consulted, but embedded in the research process.John also reflects on initiatives like the Seeds and Needs networking session, the focus on ethical and open data use, and the increasing attention to AI and indigenous knowledge in disaster risk reduction. While GADRI’s traditional resolution was once again adopted at the summit’s close, van de Lindt stresses the importance of ensuring these resolutions lead to real-world impact, particularly in the lead-up to the post-2030 Sendai Framework.Looking to the future, he hopes GADRI will continue deepening its commitment to inclusivity, data accessibility, and youth leadership, while exploring practical strategies to bridge the persistent gap between research and policy. With the next summit slated for Kyoto in 2027, the conversation ends on a hopeful note, that the seeds planted in Fort Collins will grow into stronger, more resilient global collaborations.Guest: Prof. John van de Lindt (Colorado State University, United States)Host: Dr. Mark Ashley Parry [Northumbria University, United Kingdom]Music: “Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Summary:Today's summit was rich with collaboration, regional insights, and forward-thinking conversations on disaster risk reduction.A key moment from the day was the presentation of regional alliance reports from across the globe, including North America, Latin America and the Caribbean, South Asia, Africa, and the UK. Each shared their progress and challenges, underscoring the importance of regional collaboration feeding into a global strategy. Professor Peek noted how established alliances are already mentoring emerging ones, setting a precedent for mutual learning and support.The theme of “Convergence for Disaster Resilience” was visible throughout the summit, not just in formal sessions but in the spirit of interdisciplinary, community-centered dialogue. Presenters called for problem- and solution-focused approaches that combine rigorous science with local engagement. This emphasis on equity, justice, and community voice marked what Peek described as a “next wave of convergence.”The conversation also explored how the summit is prioritizing youth engagement and leadership development. From youth-focused regional programs to rising star awards and subcommittees for early-career researchers, the message was clear: the next generation must not only be included but empowered.Finally, issues of gender, race, and cultural context were woven into discussions, with several sessions underscoring the risks of top-down solutions that fail to reflect local realities. Through case studies and candid dialogue, the summit emphasized the need to view disaster resilience through a deeply human and intersectional lens.Guest: Prof. Lori Peek [University of Colorado Boulder, USA]Co-Hosts:Dr. Mark Ashley Parry [Northumbria University, UK]Dr. Haris Rahadianto [Lund University, Sweden]Music: "Sunset" by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

In this episode, we dive into the highlights from Day 1 of the GADRI 2025 Summit, where global leaders, researchers, and policymakers gathered to explore innovative pathways toward disaster resilience.The conversation opened with a look at the vision driving this year’s summit, focusing on how GADRI continues to evolve as a platform for scientific collaboration, policy dialogue, and actionable strategies.This year’s theme, “Convergence for Disaster Resilience,” was unpacked in depth. The idea centers on breaking silos between disciplines, sectors, and borders to build more holistic and inclusive resilience strategies.We also explored how global participation has grown since the last summit. Finally, the summit’s broader impact was discussed — not just as a forum for discussion, but as a catalyst for real-world action, influencing both international frameworks and grassroots resilience initiatives.Guest: Prof. Andrew Collins [Northumbria University, UK]Host: Dr. Mark Ashley Parry [Northumbria University, UK]Music: "Sunset" by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.