BHUBANESWAR, SEP 5
“Empowering our communities is essential for building climate resilience,” said Shaifalika Panda, Trustee and Founder CEO of the Bansidhar & Ila Panda Foundation (BIPF).
At the 13th edition of BIPF’s annual conference, IDEATE 2024, Panda stressed, “By working together, we can co-create solutions, pool resources, and drive systemic change.” She highlighted the importance of inclusive collaboration for fostering climate-resilient communities.
This year’s theme, “Utkal Udyam: Community-Centric Development for Climate Resilience,” brought together policymakers and industry leaders to tackle climate change challenges and explore strategies for empowering grassroots communities.
In his special address, Benjamin Sovacool, Director at Boston University for Global Sustainability, emphasized integrating local knowledge. “Communities in Asia are pioneering innovative climate adaptation methods, using their own knowledge as a powerful tool for change,” he said.
A key moment of the event was the panel discussion titled “Harnessing Grassroots Knowledge for Climate Resilience.” Samir Shisodia, CEO of Rainmatter Foundation, stressed the need for a collaborative ecosystem, stating, “Building a collaborative ecosystem is crucial for climate action.” Jarnail Singh, Deputy Director (India) at the MacArthur Foundation, also highlighted the role of localized strategies, noting, “State-based solutions are essential for effective climate action.”
Besides, a fireside chat featuring Dr. Abha Mishra of UNDP India, Bijal Brahmbhatt of Mahila Housing Trust, and climate advocate Madhusmita Parida explored how to build an ecosystem centered around women to scale up climate action.
IDEATE 2024 aimed to promote sustainable practices, address vulnerabilities in resource management, and ensure equitable access to resources across India. The forum also emphasized the role of philanthropy in building climate-resilient communities.
