CLIMHOPS aims to investigate the interconnections between the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to leverage policies addressing climate change and its impacts, with a focus on Humanitarian Operations policies.
Considering that the triad (climate change, SDGs and humanitarian operations) is interdependent and dynamically complex, we adopt System Dynamics as a methodology to tackle the research question: what are the interconnections between climate change, the SDGs and humanitarian operations?
Start date: 26/12/2022 >>> End date: 31/12/2026
Climate
Change
Humanitarian Operations
Sustainable Development Goals
System
Dynamics
Abstract: The increased disaster intensity and impact reveal the need for an improved disaster risk and management strategy. This study delves into the financial analysis of pre- and post-disaster investments and understanding their effects on the population. We focus on the case of Brazil, a country plagued by different types of disasters that faces significant challenges in managing these events. The diverse nature of these disasters, ranging from floods to dam collapses, compounds the complexity of effective management. Based on a System Dynamics modeling approach, we ran 2089 simulations for the baseline scenario encompassing municipalities (2,061), states (27), and the national level. Additionally, we ran nine additional scenarios for each case with varying investment levels, resulting in 18,801 simulations. These extensive analyses revealed that prioritizing pre-disaster investments significantly reduces mortality and the number of affected individuals, emphasizing the critical value of proactive measures. We propose a classification system for municipalities to support policy decisions, offering a targeted framework to guide policymakers in resource allocation. Additionally, our findings highlight the importance of a balanced approach: while preventive measures yield substantial long-term benefits, robust post-disaster responses remain essential for effective risk management. This study provides actionable insights for optimizing resource allocation, minimizing the socioeconomic impacts of disasters, and enhancing resilience. By emphasizing early investments and evidence-based policy design, Brazil and other disaster-prone regions can better safeguard their populations and foster more resilient societies.
Abstract: Climate change consequences, such as severe droughts, water shortages, wildfires, rising sea levels, floods, polar ice melt, catastrophic storms, and biodiversity loss, significantly impact the achievement of the SDGs. These adverse effects exacerbate the frequency and magnitude of disasters, thereby increasing the need for effective HOs and disaster management policies. HOs are essential for balancing short-term emergency responses with long-term economic and social development interventions. Considering this context, we develop a systems thinking approach to identify key interconnections and intervention points at the intersection of climate change (CC), the sustainable development goals (SDGs), and humanitarian operations (HOs), using a systematic literature review (SLR) and causal loop diagrams (CLDs). These diagrams provide a visual representation of how different variables interact, allowing for a deeper understanding of where interventions can be most effective. This holistic approach is crucial for achieving the long-term goals of resilience and sustainability in the face of growing climate challenges. Additionally, we use heat maps to depict the intensity and distribution of relationships across different variables. Key findings highlight the need for innovative policies that integrate nature-based solutions and advanced climate data analytics to strengthen disaster preparedness and response. For example, reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions stands out as a strategic leverage point that simultaneously contributes to climate change mitigation, disaster risk reduction, and progress across multiple SDGs. Moreover, the findings underscore the importance of advancing carbon sequestration techniques to mitigate climate change impacts effectively. Addressing these research gaps can contribute to developing more effective strategies for managing climate risks and promoting sustainable development.
Exploring public policies in the context of the SDGs, Climate Change, and Humanitarian Operations.
Abstract: The interconnected challenges of climate change (CC), sustainable development, and humanitarian crises underscore the urgent need for integrated public policies that address systemic inequalities between global production and consumption patterns that intensify environmental challenges and social inequalities, exacerbating the vulnerabilities of different regions. Addressing these imbalances requires a policy framework that aligns economic incentives with environmental responsibility and social equity. This study explores how public policies can mitigate these asymmetries by advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), fostering climate resilience, and enhancing humanitarian operations (HOs) through a system-thinking approach. Therefore, this research employed a Systematic Literature Review (SLR), encompassing searchers in Scopus and Web of Science databases with a string that combined keywords related to SDGs, CC, HOs, and system thinking to ensure comprehensive coverage. Several documents reviewed highlighted the implementation of public policies spanning economic, social, environmental, and governance perspectives. In the economic field, Chapariha (2022) highlighted income redistribution and the implementation of progressive taxes as measures to reduce social inequalities in Iran, while initiatives such as introducing carbon taxes and eliminating fossil fuel subsidies, observed in Japan (Kanai and Yamamoto, 2022), aim to encourage more sustainable practices. Mechanisms for payments for ecosystem services were evidenced in the Colombian Páramos (Benavides et al., 2019). Regarding infrastructure, urban management policies have gained prominence, such as flood control plans and investments in green infrastructure described in Japan (Kanai and Yamamoto, 2022). Additionally, efforts to strengthen climate-resilient sanitation systems were identified as critical in Pakistan (Shin et al., 2022). In the environmental field, nature-based solutions (NBS), as exemplified in the Netherlands by Keesstra et al. (2018), have proven to be a cost-effective approach to mitigating climate risks and promoting biodiversity. Conservation and reforestation initiatives, such as those implemented in Nepal and India, were also highlighted by Verma et al. (2021), demonstrating how long-term policies can restore degraded ecosystems and promote climate balance. From a health and well-being perspective, efforts aimed at expanding vaccination campaigns and strengthening public health systems, as described in Yemen (Harpring et al., 2021), complemented food security programs and support for small farmers in countries like Nigeria (Echendu, 2022). Social and humanitarian policies also gained prominence, with initiatives including direct financial assistance and the integration of vulnerable communities into climate adaptation strategies, as described in Yemen (Harpring et al., 2021) and Nigeria (Echendu, 2022). Policies for environmental education and incentives for remaining in fragile ecosystems have been essential to reducing migration and preserving key ecosystem services (Benavides et al., 2019). Finally, governance and international collaboration were identified as pillars for the success of various policies. Kanai and Yamamoto (2022) analyzed the case of Japan and highlighted the importance of articulation among governments, the private sector, and academia to mitigate disasters and promote resilience. Meanwhile, Side (2022) reinforced the need for debt relief linked to social protection programs, emphasizing how global issues require greater international coordination. It is important to highlight that the public policies analyzed impact multiple SDGs, reflecting the interconnection between social, economic, and environmental dimensions. For example, The "Room for the River" policy and the blue-green infrastructure align with sustainable cities and communities policy (SDG 11), integrating climate risk management, such as flood control, with the creation of green spaces to enhance urban resilience (Li et al., 2023). The carbon taxation and energy transition policies are linked to climate action (SDG 13), promoting the reduction of fossil fuel use, funding renewable energy, and phasing out harmful subsidies (Chapariha, 2022). Meanwhile, community forest management and environmental conservation policies connect to life on land (SDG 15), encouraging sustainable forest management, biodiversity protection, and support for international conservation programs (Verma et al., 2021). The preliminary findings of this SLR highlight that public policies must be integrated and adapted to local contexts, considering economic, social, and environmental factors. Synthesizing public policy research assists in bridging the gap between theory and practice, ensuring policies are both evidence-based and context-sensitive.
Understating public policies considering the relationship between SDGs, Climate Change and Humanitarian Operations.
Abstract: This study identifies appropriate public policies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), minimize Climate Change (CC), and enhancing Humanitarian Operations (HOs) considering a systems thinking approach. Through a literature review, the preliminary findings highlight that public policies must be adapted, considering economic, social, and environmental factors.
Charting the interconnections between Climate Change and Humanitarian Operations
Link: https://systemdynamics.org/2024-international-system-dynamics-conference/
The financial support effects on the progress of the Sustainable Development Goals
Abstract: This research investigates the impact of investments on the global progress of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Financial support is instrumental in helping developing countries drive progress toward the SDGs. Using a panel data analysis, we explore the relationship between financial support, country income, and SDG scores. Additionally, we conduct exploratory data analyses for a sample of countries to further detail how investments influence specific SDGs. Our findings reveal there is a positive impact of both income and invested values on the SDG score. We also highlight sectors and SDGs that need more attention and the limitations of available data.
Link: https://euroma2024.org/
Unfolding the complex interdependencies between the Sustainable Development Goals, Humanitarian Operations, and Climate Change
Abstract: This paper aims to unpack the interconnections between the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 13) and the other SDGs to leverage policies to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of Climate Change (CC), emphasizing Humanitarian Operations (HO) policies. We developed a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) to systematize the insights and compile an exhaustive list of existing paths connecting the CC-SDG-HO triad. The main results indicate that CC is rapidly intensifying the frequency and severity of climate-related disasters – such as droughts, water scarcity, floods, fires and biodiversity loss – which have a profound impact on human health and well-being.
Link: https://ipsera2024.com/
Unveiling the Complex Interactions between Humanitarian Operations and SDGs
Abstract: Disaster frequency has increased, pressuring for more Humanitarian Operations (HO). Disasters and HO are intrinsically linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a global commitment to a sustainable future for all. Amid this scenario, this research analyzes the interplay between disasters, HO and SDGs using a quantitative systems dynamics model.
Analyzing the interplay between climate change, humanitarian operations, and the Sustainable Development Goals: A conceptual framework
Abstract: Climate Change (CC) refers to long-term changes and global weather patterns. The consequences of CC include intense droughts and floods, among other disasters. These disasters significantly affect the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and they are inextricably intertwined. Also, these disasters increase the demand for more assistance policies and, consequently, for more Humanitarian Operations (HO), seeking to balance short-term responses with long-term economic and social development interventions. In this context, this paper aims to map the interconnections between SDG 13 and the other SDGs to leverage policies to adapt to the impacts of CC, emphasizing HO policies. Given the problem’s interconnection and dynamically complex nature, we adopt system dynamics as a methodological approach. The findings are encapsulated in a causal loop diagram (CLD) based on the CC-SDG-HO triad, which captures the main interconnections among variables.
Mapping Climate Change, Humanitarian Operations, and the Sustainable Development Goals Interplay
Abstract: Climate change exacerbates disasters, significantly hindering efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs). When disaster impacts exceed the capacity of affected communities to recover, humanitarian operations (HO) provide short-term responses and long-term development interventions. Therefore, this research aims to unpack the interconnections between SDG 13 (Climate Action) and the other SDGs to leverage policies to combat the impacts of Climate Change (CC), emphasizing HO policies. Considering that the CC-SDG-HO triad is interdependent and dynamically complex, we adopt System Dynamics as a methodology. The findings are encapsulated in a causal loop diagram. We are undertaking a Systematic Literature Review to document insights from papers and compile an exhaustive list of existing paths connecting the CC-SDG-HO triad. The results contribute to the knowledge of sustainable development and humanitarian operations, which will serve as a foundation for follow-on studies.
Mapping the linkages between Climate Change, Humanitarian Operations, and the Sustainable Development Goals
Abstract: Climate Change (CC) refers to long-term temperature changes and global weather patterns. The consequences of CC include intense droughts and floods, among other disasters. These disasters significantly affect the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and they are inextricably intertwined. Also, these disasters increase the demand for more assistance policies and, consequently, for more Humanitarian Operations (HO), seeking to balance short-term responses with long-term economic and social development interventions. In this context, this paper aims to map the interconnections between SDG 13 and the other SDGs to leverage policies to combat the impacts of CC, emphasizing HO policies.
Link: https://euroma2023.org/
Mapping the linkages between Climate Change, Humanitarian Operations, and SDGs
Abstract: Climate change exacerbates disasters, significantly hindering efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. When disaster impacts exceed the capacity of affected communities to recover, humanitarian operations provide short-term responses and long-term development interventions. Therefore, this paper aims to unpack the linkages between SDG 13 (Climate Action) and the other SDGs to leverage policies to address the impacts of climate change. Given the problem’s interconnection and dynamically complex nature, we adopt system dynamics as a methodological approach. The findings are encapsulated in a causal loop diagram, which feeds into a simulation model to support policy design.
The interinstitutional project coordinated by the HANDs Lab at Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro (PUC-Rio) was selected in the CNPq/MCTI/FNDCT Call No. 59/2022 - Knowledge Production Focused on Solutions and Technologies Associated with Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation.
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Funding