15 July 2021: The University of Canberra will launch the new Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience Research Network (CCARRN) this Friday, a network of knowledge, expertise and education in climate change adaptation and resilience to contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future for people and the planet.
The network comprises academics and leaders in the field of climate action across the University’s five faculties: education, arts and design, health, science and technology, and business, government and law.
The network was created as an initial response to the bushfire crisis in 2019/20 where the University set up a taskforce of researchers to support communities impacted by the disaster. The team soon realised there was a bigger issue at hand and broadened the taskforce’s objectives.
“The researchers who make up the network all have skills and expertise across the board to work with local and regional communities in better planning and preparing their futures,” said inaugural Chair of CCARRN Professor Barbara Norman.
“Establishing this network that is informed by cutting edge research and sharing of knowledge and education in climate action will make for a more resilient future for all.”
The network is already producing leading research which address many areas of climate action including risks and impacts, adaptation, resilience and recovery.
“There has been a lot of work happening in the immediate response and recovery after events like bushfires and floods, but local communities are now really looking at more holistic ways to plan for their futures.”
“That is where this network can step in and work with our local communities in terms of identifying climate risk and planning for the future.”
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Leigh Sullivan said the CCARRN establishes UC as a leader in climate action, with the expertise and skills to help local communities and regions impacted by climate change events.
“The University is stepping up and taking action in this field, with high calibre researchers behind the initiative and a real opportunity to change processes when it comes to climate adaptation and resilience,” he said.
“The network has identified that there are significant challenges ahead for Canberra and the region facing the impacts of climate change now and into the future, so there has never been a better time for this network to be established.”