International conference on environmental knowledge for disaster risk management

The conference on 'Environmental Knowledge for Disaster Risk Management (ekDRM)' has been conceptualized for addressing emerging issues and tools/techniques that require focus in order to strengthen the holistic framework of disaster risk management. During the last decade there has been greater focus on the interface between environment, livelihoods and disasters. There is more vigorous conceptual understanding of ecosystem services as evident from initiatives of Joint UNEP-OCHA Environment Unit, UNISDR, IUCN, UNFCCC, UNESCO and others international/national organizations in the light of resolutions of Agenda-21, Hyogo Framework, WSSD (Rio+10) and Millennium Ecosystem Assessment.

The proposed International Conference on Environmental Knowledge for Disaster Risk Management (ekDRM-2011) jointly supported by NIDM and GTZ, is aimed at understanding the existing framework, assessing strengths and challenges, identifying gaps and developing strategic approaches and tools for environment based disaster risk management (DRM) interventions.

The objectives of the Conference are:
· To emphasize environmental aspects of disaster risk management through use of statistical/decision-support system for assessment, planning and case-studies
· To promote effective networking and training with emerging/innovative methods including e-learning, consultation and workshops in the areas of the project
· To promote effective use of web-enabled system for human resource development and training management in the areas of the project
· To promote international cooperation on exchange of ideas, expertise and sharing of experience on aspects of environment and knowledge management for DRM.