Emma Howard Boyd CBE, Chair of the London Climate Resilience Review and Global Ambassador for Race to Resilience, underscores the urgency for London to prepare for extreme weather events. Commissioned by the Mayor of London, the Review aims to assess the impact of recent severe weather, such as the 2021 floods and the 2022 heatwave, which revealed significant gaps in the city’s readiness. “London is underprepared for the climate risks it faces, especially as temperatures continue to rise,” says Emma.
Strengthening Infrastructure Against Climate Change
London has taken steps to bolster flood defences, notably with the Thames Barrier, completed in 1982. However, with rising sea levels, this system now requires urgent upgrades. The interim report from the London Resilience Review recommends raising embankments along the Thames, originally planned for 2065, by 2050 to counter sea-level rise and storm surges. Emma notes that this initiative is “a crucial step to safeguard London’s future.”
Learning from Global Urban Resilience Efforts
Emma highlights the value other cities can draw from London’s experience. She points out that many cities are currently preparing for individual climate hazards, such as heatwaves or flooding, yet overlook the interconnected impacts of multiple hazards. She cites the example of Dhaka appointing its first “Chief Heat Officer” in response to rising temperatures, an action that may serve as a model for cities worldwide. Emma insists that cities must act with “pace rather than perfection” to effectively address the increasing frequency of climate threats.
Resilience Funding and Policy Challenges
Emma stresses the need for a global re-evaluation of “adaptation finance,” ensuring that climate resilience remains a core consideration in all investments to avoid the risk of future “stranded assets.” She asserts that resilience must be incorporated into financial decision-making within both public and private sectors, as this is essential for cities to meet the growing demands of climate adaptation.
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