Month: September 2024

Carbon dioxide removal (CDR) is a critical tool in the fight against climate change. For the first time in human history, we have solutions to help us address the excess CO2 that we have put into our atmosphere. These technologies—many of which are still in development and need our support— have the potential to rebalance our carbon budget and mitigate the most adverse effects of climate change. But as we’ve seen with the scandals that have plagued the traditional voluntary carbon markets (VCMs), not all carbon credits are created equal. Therefore, it is important to have standards in place to ensure that carbon removal projects are of high quality and deliver their promised impact, in order to avoid the same shortcomings as traditional VCM projects. This is why Climate Vault’s recently-submitted feedback to the Department of Energy on its Notice of Intent to create a Voluntary Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) Purchasing Challenge contained a strong emphasis on instilling transparent, credible, and verifiable assessment criteria—cornerstones of our operational ethos.

Ensuring the Quality & Integrity of CDR Credits 

The DOE’s program is designed to foster a robust market for carbon removal by incentivizing organizations to commit to purchasing and retiring CDR credits annually, in increasing volumes, starting no later than 2025. Importantly, it also requires these “Credit Buyers” to disclose their CDR purchases and related project data. In doing so, the DOE seeks to enhance market transparency, bolster the quality and integrity of carbon removal credits, and pave a path for greater participation in the CDR market.

By setting rigorous criteria for CDR projects, the DOE has the opportunity to create a reliable and effective system that can drive major demand for high-quality carbon removals. Based on our experience, these criteria should take into consideration:

1. Additionality

Additionality is a cornerstone of any credible carbon removal project. Without additionality, there is a risk that the CDR market becomes saturated with low-quality credits that do little to drive real climate action—much like the issues faced by the traditional voluntary carbon markets. This criteria ensures that the carbon removals generated by a project are genuinely “additional”—meaning they wouldn’t have occurred in the absence of the project and the credit purchase made by the buyer. This concept is vital to the integrity of the CDR market.

Additionality is a strict requirement at the core of the selection process for Climate Vault’s own RFP for Innovative CDR Projects and is often an area where applicants fall short. Each proposal is rigorously assessed to ensure that the carbon removals are not only real but also result from activities that would not have occurred without the award’s support.

2. Leakage

Leakage refers to the unintended consequences that a CDR project might have on existing emissions within its sector or industry. For example, a project that sequesters carbon in one region might inadvertently increase emissions in another, such as by shifting existing production activities elsewhere or by displacing existing carbon sinks. Leakage can undermine the effectiveness of CDR projects by offsetting the very reductions they aim to achieve. Addressing leakage is crucial for ensuring that CDR projects provide a net positive impact on global emissions.

3. Permanence

Permanence is a critical factor in determining the long-term effectiveness of CDR projects. It refers to the durability of the carbon storage—how long the captured CO2 will remain sequestered and out of the atmosphere. The importance of permanence in CDR cannot be overstated, as the primary goal of these projects is to achieve long-lasting reductions in atmospheric CO2 levels. If the carbon is released back into the atmosphere after a short period, the project fails to deliver meaningful climate benefits and can even create a false sense of progress.

Climate Vault’s RFP criteria includes a minimum permanence threshold of 50 years. This standard is designed to strike a balance between current technological capabilities and the urgent need for climate action. While longer-term storage solutions, such as those guaranteeing 100 or even 1,000 years of sequestration, are ideal, they are not yet widely available. By setting a 50-year threshold, this encourages immediate action with the best available technologies, while also supporting the continued development of more durable carbon removal methods.

4. Technical & Economic Feasibility

Investments in carbon credits should contribute to technologies that have the potential to be replicated at scale and make a meaningful contribution to achieving worldwide carbon neutrality, while also achieving reasonable price points. CDR project developers should be able to outline the key barriers to market entry and risks to scaling, including costs, legal and regulatory requirements, and permitting needs.

5. Environmental & Social Impacts

It is imperative that CDR project developers consider and address the potential social, political, and ecosystem risks associated with their solutions, including:

Identifying their stakeholdersEngaging with, or having a plan in place to engage with, their identified stakeholdersUnderstanding stakeholder perspectivesIdentifying the likelihood of adverse reactions to the projectConsidering any site-specific environmental equity concerns regarding the proposed project.

6. Innovation 

The last criteria should include an assessment of the novelty of the technology or business model presented by the CDR project developer, including competitive differentiation. Given the nascency of the CDR space and the urgency of the climate crisis, it is critical to support and scale a large and diverse set of innovative carbon removal solutions and to do so as quickly as possible. It will require a myriad of solutions, across pathways, in order to have a chance to avoid the most catastrophic impacts of climate change.

Unfortunately, novel methods—technologies that are partially- or fully-engineered—only account for 0.1% of global CDR, according to the 2024 State of Carbon Dioxide Removal Report. This includes projects like biochar, enhanced rock weathering, direct air capture with carbon storage (DACCS) and bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS). For removal of historical CO2 emissions to succeed, there must be immense advancements of more high-quality novel CDR methods this decade.

Supporting & Scaling High-Quality CDR Projects

Climate Vault currently evaluates CDR solutions across three pathways under the Climate Vault RFP for Innovative CDR Projects. Through a comprehensive RFP process, Climate Vault cuts through the complexity of the CDR space to identify the most impactful carbon removal solutions on behalf of our customers—reducing the administrative burden for sourcing and securing the highest quality and impactful CDR credits. By applying similar criteria to those outlined above, this rigorous approach helps safeguard the integrity of the carbon removal market, while also accelerating the scaling of these critical technologies.

As the carbon removal market continues to evolve, establishing clear and stringent criteria for CDR is more important than ever. The DOE’s program has the potential to support the scaling of high-quality CDR technologies that drive significant climate action in the years to come. By focusing on these six criteria for high-quality CDR projects, the DOE can ensure that the projects supported under its purchase program are not only effective in removing carbon from the atmosphere but also contribute to broader climate goals. With novel CDR technologies, achieving gigatonne-scale carbon removal is within our grasp, but it will take continued effort, unwavering support by stakeholders, and strict high-quality standards to achieve this impact.

The carbon landscape is complicated. Download your copy of Climate Vault’s Carbon Landscape eBook for detailed insight into CDR, voluntary and compliance carbon markets, emission allowances, carbon offsets, RECs, and reporting frameworks and standards.

Carbon dioxide removal (CDR) is a critical tool in the fight against climate change. For the first time in human history, we have solutions to help us address the excess CO2 that we have put into our atmosphere. These technologies—many of which are still in development and need our support— have the potential to rebalance our carbon budget and mitigate the most adverse effects of climate change. But as we’ve seen with the scandals that have plagued the traditional voluntary carbon markets (VCMs), not all carbon credits are created equal. Therefore, it is important to have standards in place to ensure that carbon removal projects are of high quality and deliver their promised impact, in order to avoid the same shortcomings as traditional VCM projects. This is why Climate Vault’s recently-submitted feedback to the Department of Energy on its Notice of Intent to create a Voluntary Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) Purchasing Challenge contained a strong emphasis on instilling transparent, credible, and verifiable assessment criteria—cornerstones of our operational ethos.

Ensuring the Quality & Integrity of CDR Credits 

The DOE’s program is designed to foster a robust market for carbon removal by incentivizing organizations to commit to purchasing and retiring CDR credits annually, in increasing volumes, starting no later than 2025. Importantly, it also requires these “Credit Buyers” to disclose their CDR purchases and related project data. In doing so, the DOE seeks to enhance market transparency, bolster the quality and integrity of carbon removal credits, and pave a path for greater participation in the CDR market.

By setting rigorous criteria for CDR projects, the DOE has the opportunity to create a reliable and effective system that can drive major demand for high-quality carbon removals. Based on our experience, these criteria should take into consideration:

1. Additionality

Additionality is a cornerstone of any credible carbon removal project. Without additionality, there is a risk that the CDR market becomes saturated with low-quality credits that do little to drive real climate action—much like the issues faced by the traditional voluntary carbon markets. This criteria ensures that the carbon removals generated by a project are genuinely “additional”—meaning they wouldn’t have occurred in the absence of the project and the credit purchase made by the buyer. This concept is vital to the integrity of the CDR market.

Additionality is a strict requirement at the core of the selection process for Climate Vault’s own RFP for Innovative CDR Projects and is often an area where applicants fall short. Each proposal is rigorously assessed to ensure that the carbon removals are not only real but also result from activities that would not have occurred without the award’s support.

2. Leakage

Leakage refers to the unintended consequences that a CDR project might have on existing emissions within its sector or industry. For example, a project that sequesters carbon in one region might inadvertently increase emissions in another, such as by shifting existing production activities elsewhere or by displacing existing carbon sinks. Leakage can undermine the effectiveness of CDR projects by offsetting the very reductions they aim to achieve. Addressing leakage is crucial for ensuring that CDR projects provide a net positive impact on global emissions.

3. Permanence

Permanence is a critical factor in determining the long-term effectiveness of CDR projects. It refers to the durability of the carbon storage—how long the captured CO2 will remain sequestered and out of the atmosphere. The importance of permanence in CDR cannot be overstated, as the primary goal of these projects is to achieve long-lasting reductions in atmospheric CO2 levels. If the carbon is released back into the atmosphere after a short period, the project fails to deliver meaningful climate benefits and can even create a false sense of progress.

Climate Vault’s RFP criteria includes a minimum permanence threshold of 50 years. This standard is designed to strike a balance between current technological capabilities and the urgent need for climate action. While longer-term storage solutions, such as those guaranteeing 100 or even 1,000 years of sequestration, are ideal, they are not yet widely available. By setting a 50-year threshold, this encourages immediate action with the best available technologies, while also supporting the continued development of more durable carbon removal methods.

4. Technical & Economic Feasibility

Investments in carbon credits should contribute to technologies that have the potential to be replicated at scale and make a meaningful contribution to achieving worldwide carbon neutrality, while also achieving reasonable price points. CDR project developers should be able to outline the key barriers to market entry and risks to scaling, including costs, legal and regulatory requirements, and permitting needs.

5. Environmental & Social Impacts

It is imperative that CDR project developers consider and address the potential social, political, and ecosystem risks associated with their solutions, including:

Identifying their stakeholdersEngaging with, or having a plan in place to engage with, their identified stakeholdersUnderstanding stakeholder perspectivesIdentifying the likelihood of adverse reactions to the projectConsidering any site-specific environmental equity concerns regarding the proposed project.

6. Innovation 

The last criteria should include an assessment of the novelty of the technology or business model presented by the CDR project developer, including competitive differentiation. Given the nascency of the CDR space and the urgency of the climate crisis, it is critical to support and scale a large and diverse set of innovative carbon removal solutions and to do so as quickly as possible. It will require a myriad of solutions, across pathways, in order to have a chance to avoid the most catastrophic impacts of climate change.

Unfortunately, novel methods—technologies that are partially- or fully-engineered—only account for 0.1% of global CDR, according to the 2024 State of Carbon Dioxide Removal Report. This includes projects like biochar, enhanced rock weathering, direct air capture with carbon storage (DACCS) and bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS). For removal of historical CO2 emissions to succeed, there must be immense advancements of more high-quality novel CDR methods this decade.

Supporting & Scaling High-Quality CDR Projects

Climate Vault currently evaluates CDR solutions across three pathways under the Climate Vault RFP for Innovative CDR Projects. Through a comprehensive RFP process, Climate Vault cuts through the complexity of the CDR space to identify the most impactful carbon removal solutions on behalf of our customers—reducing the administrative burden for sourcing and securing the highest quality and impactful CDR credits. By applying similar criteria to those outlined above, this rigorous approach helps safeguard the integrity of the carbon removal market, while also accelerating the scaling of these critical technologies.

As the carbon removal market continues to evolve, establishing clear and stringent criteria for CDR is more important than ever. The DOE’s program has the potential to support the scaling of high-quality CDR technologies that drive significant climate action in the years to come. By focusing on these six criteria for high-quality CDR projects, the DOE can ensure that the projects supported under its purchase program are not only effective in removing carbon from the atmosphere but also contribute to broader climate goals. With novel CDR technologies, achieving gigatonne-scale carbon removal is within our grasp, but it will take continued effort, unwavering support by stakeholders, and strict high-quality standards to achieve this impact.

The carbon landscape is complicated. Download your copy of Climate Vault’s Carbon Landscape eBook for detailed insight into CDR, voluntary and compliance carbon markets, emission allowances, carbon offsets, RECs, and reporting frameworks and standards.

Editor’s note: Major flooding events are occurring so often that in the days between when this post was drafted and when it was scheduled to publish, another deadly flood struck – this time in Central Europe. We are in contact with our Associates in the region, and are keeping an eye on developing conditions across Romania, Austria, Poland, and the Czech Republic.

“The Vienna River, or simply the Wien, experienced a 1000-year flood event in the recent flood in September 2024. However, due to the recently constructed stormwater retention reservoirs, no damage was caused in the city, ” Bastian Schnabel, with our Associate Hydrophil in Austria. In this case because of well-prepared flood protection it mitigated damage to this city of over 2 million. Read on to learn more about flood management, response and mitigation.

One of the most destructive consequences of climate change is the increased frequency of flooding. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), floods are the most frequent natural disaster, representing 44% of all natural disasters worldwide. 

As flooding impacts more people and places than ever before, it is imperative that governments, corporate entities, and other regional stakeholders have a response and mitigation plan in place — especially in areas at a higher risk of flooding.

Read on to discover how climate change increases flood risks and the strategies needed for effective response.

Understanding Climate Change and Flooding

Climate change is significantly altering global weather patterns, with one of the most visible and destructive consequences being the increased frequency and intensity of flooding.

Increased precipitation

As global temperatures rise, the atmosphere holds more moisture, leading to heavier and more prolonged precipitation in the form of rain and snow. This, in turn, causes rivers to overflow, storm drains to back up, and low-lying areas to flood more frequently. 

Warming oceans also fuel stronger hurricanes and typhoons, which bring both coastal storm surges and inland flooding as they move further over land.

Rising sea levels

One of the major effects of climate change on flooding is the rise in sea levels, which exacerbates coastal flooding, especially during storms. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), global sea levels have risen by about 8-9 inches (20-23 cm) since 1880, and nearly half of that rise has occurred in the past 25 years. This acceleration is due to the melting of glaciers and ice sheets as well as the expansion of seawater as it warms.

Record-breaking floods

Recent years have seen record-breaking floods around the world:

Germany, 2021 

A devastating series of floods hit Germany, with some regions experiencing flooding of a magnitude that was expected to occur once every century. The event resulted in significant loss of life and infrastructure damage, and experts point to the increasing frequency of such extreme weather due to climate change.

New Zealand, 2022-2023 

Over a span of a few months, New Zealand was hit by a series of severe weather events, leading to widespread flooding. The economic cost surpassed $4 billion, and for a country of just 5 million people, the devastation was immense.

Brazil, 2024

Severe flooding in Rio Grande do Sul left entire communities displaced. The floodwaters rose quickly, trapping people in their homes and forcing mass evacuations.

For a more in-depth look at how flooding affected these communities, listen to our podcast Rising above the Floods: Stories from Flood-Affected Communities

Importance of proactive flood management

As climate change continues to influence the environment, integrating climate predictions into urban planning will be crucial for reducing long-term risks. This means considering future flood risks when designing new developments and retrofitting vulnerable areas to withstand extreme weather events. 

Only through proactive, adaptive measures can communities stay ahead of the increasing flood risks posed by climate change.

To learn more about how your organization can better prepare for the future, check out our Flood Risk and Climate Resilience Webinar.

Key Challenges in Flooding Response and Mitigation

Flooding poses complex challenges for governments, businesses, and communities. Addressing these issues is critical to minimizing both immediate and long-term impacts.

Increased flood frequency and intensity

Floods are occurring with greater frequency and intensity due to climate change, which leads to more extreme weather patterns like heavier rainfall. What were once considered rare “100-year floods” are now happening more frequently, making it difficult for emergency responders and urban planners to predict and prepare for future events.

Shifting weather patterns 

Erratic weather patterns, driven by climate change, have made it increasingly challenging to predict where and when flooding will occur. Previously dry regions are now facing unexpected heavy rainfall. Areas that historically faced low flood risk are now experiencing frequent flooding, complicating flood response efforts.

Overwhelmed and outdated infrastructure

Aging infrastructure in many regions is ill-equipped to manage the intense rainfall associated with climate change. In once-dry areas, stormwater systems, roads, and buildings often cannot cope with sudden downpours, leading to widespread flooding. Coastal areas, already dealing with rising sea levels, face even greater challenges as storm surges and high tides put additional strain on outdated infrastructure.

Economic and Social Impacts of Flooding

Floods not only cause immediate physical damage — they also have long-term economic and social impacts. The destruction of homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure can cripple local economies, leading to job losses, disruptions in services, and increased poverty. It’s predicted that by 2050, flooding could cost the global economy $5.6 trillion.

In addition to the economic toll, floods can have profound social consequences. Displaced populations often face significant health risks, including the spread of waterborne diseases, food shortages, and the psychological trauma of losing homes and livelihoods. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, low-income communities, and people with disabilities, are disproportionately affected by floods.

Developing Effective Flood Response and Flood Mitigation Strategies

As the frequency and severity of flooding continue to rise due to climate change, governments, organizations, and communities must adopt more effective strategies to mitigate flood risks and improve response efforts.

Enhanced early warning systems

Early warning systems are a cornerstone of effective flood response, providing communities with crucial lead time to take protective action. The rise of innovative technologies has transformed flood monitoring and response, making it possible to track conditions in real time and detect changes that signal an impending flood.

Remote sensing technologies like satellites and drones provide high-resolution images of flood-prone areas, helping authorities assess damage, track water levels, and identify vulnerable locations. These tools are invaluable for monitoring remote or hard-to-reach regions, ensuring that even the most isolated areas are covered during critical weather events.

Forecasting models use hydrological and meteorological data to predict when and where floods may occur, as well as their potential magnitude. Ensemble forecasting, which combines multiple models, offers a more comprehensive prediction, allowing emergency services to better prepare for and respond to flood threats.

Stream and river gauges are key for monitoring rising water levels in rivers and streams. When integrated with early warning systems, these gauges trigger alerts when water surpasses critical thresholds, enabling rapid response to prevent or mitigate flood damage in affected areas.

Emergency Response Planning and Community Preparedness

Emergency response planning is the backbone of any flood mitigation strategy, and it requires detailed, well-rehearsed protocols.

Developing community-based response plans

Communities are often the first line of defense when it comes to flood response. Developing community-based response plans empowers residents to take ownership of their flood preparedness.

These plans should focus on local risk factors, like proximity to rivers or coastal areas, and outline specific steps for residents to follow during a flood event. Community-based plans should also address the needs of vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, disabled, or low-income families, to ensure they receive additional support during an emergency.

Construct flood-resistant infrastructure 

Specific infrastructure measures such as the construction of stormwater retention reservoirs, renaturation of rivers and wetlands, de-paving of urban areas, and the construction of side channels like the Neue Donau (New Danube) build in Vienna in the 1970’s to provide flood relief by channeling excess water out of Vienna City, help to make cities more resilient to flooding events.

Educating the public on flood risks and safety measures

One of the most effective ways to reduce the impact of floods is through public education.

Communities need to be well-informed about flood risks in their area and understand how to protect themselves and their property when flooding occurs.

Public awareness campaigns should cover important topics like:

How to recognize flood warning signsWhat to include in an emergency flood kitHow to safely evacuate during a floodSteps to protect homes and businesses, such as elevating electrical equipment or using water barriers

Learn more: Global Perspectives: Understanding the Differences in Emergency Response Programs 

Planning for a Resilient Future

To build a more resilient future, governments, businesses, and communities need to work together to anticipate and adapt to the evolving nature of risks associated with climate change. This means improving early warning systems, enacting energy transition plans, and investing in resilient infrastructure.

As we look ahead, adopting a holistic approach to climate adaptation — one that incorporates diverse strategies across sectors — will be essential for safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and economies.

Is your entity ready to address disaster preparedness? Learn more about our Emergency Response Programs & Training

Inogen Alliance is a global network made up of dozens of independent local businesses and over 6,000 consultants around the world who can help make your project a success. Our Associates collaborate closely to serve multinational corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, and we share knowledge and industry experience to provide the highest quality service to our clients. If you want to learn more about how you can work with Inogen Alliance, you can explore our Associates or Contact Us. Watch for more News & Blog updates here and follow us on LinkedIn.

Editor’s note: Major flooding events are occurring so often that in the days between when this post was drafted and when it was scheduled to publish, another deadly flood struck – this time in Central Europe. We are in contact with our Associates in the region, and are keeping an eye on developing conditions across Romania, Austria, Poland, and the Czech Republic.

“The Vienna River, or simply the Wien, experienced a 1000-year flood event in the recent flood in September 2024. However, due to the recently constructed stormwater retention reservoirs, no damage was caused in the city, ” Bastian Schnabel, with our Associate Hydrophil in Austria. In this case because of well-prepared flood protection it mitigated damage to this city of over 2 million. Read on to learn more about flood management, response and mitigation.

One of the most destructive consequences of climate change is the increased frequency of flooding. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), floods are the most frequent natural disaster, representing 44% of all natural disasters worldwide. 

As flooding impacts more people and places than ever before, it is imperative that governments, corporate entities, and other regional stakeholders have a response and mitigation plan in place — especially in areas at a higher risk of flooding.

Read on to discover how climate change increases flood risks and the strategies needed for effective response.

Understanding Climate Change and Flooding

Climate change is significantly altering global weather patterns, with one of the most visible and destructive consequences being the increased frequency and intensity of flooding.

Increased precipitation

As global temperatures rise, the atmosphere holds more moisture, leading to heavier and more prolonged precipitation in the form of rain and snow. This, in turn, causes rivers to overflow, storm drains to back up, and low-lying areas to flood more frequently. 

Warming oceans also fuel stronger hurricanes and typhoons, which bring both coastal storm surges and inland flooding as they move further over land.

Rising sea levels

One of the major effects of climate change on flooding is the rise in sea levels, which exacerbates coastal flooding, especially during storms. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), global sea levels have risen by about 8-9 inches (20-23 cm) since 1880, and nearly half of that rise has occurred in the past 25 years. This acceleration is due to the melting of glaciers and ice sheets as well as the expansion of seawater as it warms.

Record-breaking floods

Recent years have seen record-breaking floods around the world:

Germany, 2021 

A devastating series of floods hit Germany, with some regions experiencing flooding of a magnitude that was expected to occur once every century. The event resulted in significant loss of life and infrastructure damage, and experts point to the increasing frequency of such extreme weather due to climate change.

New Zealand, 2022-2023 

Over a span of a few months, New Zealand was hit by a series of severe weather events, leading to widespread flooding. The economic cost surpassed $4 billion, and for a country of just 5 million people, the devastation was immense.

Brazil, 2024

Severe flooding in Rio Grande do Sul left entire communities displaced. The floodwaters rose quickly, trapping people in their homes and forcing mass evacuations.

For a more in-depth look at how flooding affected these communities, listen to our podcast Rising above the Floods: Stories from Flood-Affected Communities

Importance of proactive flood management

As climate change continues to influence the environment, integrating climate predictions into urban planning will be crucial for reducing long-term risks. This means considering future flood risks when designing new developments and retrofitting vulnerable areas to withstand extreme weather events. 

Only through proactive, adaptive measures can communities stay ahead of the increasing flood risks posed by climate change.

To learn more about how your organization can better prepare for the future, check out our Flood Risk and Climate Resilience Webinar.

Key Challenges in Flooding Response and Mitigation

Flooding poses complex challenges for governments, businesses, and communities. Addressing these issues is critical to minimizing both immediate and long-term impacts.

Increased flood frequency and intensity

Floods are occurring with greater frequency and intensity due to climate change, which leads to more extreme weather patterns like heavier rainfall. What were once considered rare “100-year floods” are now happening more frequently, making it difficult for emergency responders and urban planners to predict and prepare for future events.

Shifting weather patterns 

Erratic weather patterns, driven by climate change, have made it increasingly challenging to predict where and when flooding will occur. Previously dry regions are now facing unexpected heavy rainfall. Areas that historically faced low flood risk are now experiencing frequent flooding, complicating flood response efforts.

Overwhelmed and outdated infrastructure

Aging infrastructure in many regions is ill-equipped to manage the intense rainfall associated with climate change. In once-dry areas, stormwater systems, roads, and buildings often cannot cope with sudden downpours, leading to widespread flooding. Coastal areas, already dealing with rising sea levels, face even greater challenges as storm surges and high tides put additional strain on outdated infrastructure.

Economic and Social Impacts of Flooding

Floods not only cause immediate physical damage — they also have long-term economic and social impacts. The destruction of homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure can cripple local economies, leading to job losses, disruptions in services, and increased poverty. It’s predicted that by 2050, flooding could cost the global economy $5.6 trillion.

In addition to the economic toll, floods can have profound social consequences. Displaced populations often face significant health risks, including the spread of waterborne diseases, food shortages, and the psychological trauma of losing homes and livelihoods. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, low-income communities, and people with disabilities, are disproportionately affected by floods.

Developing Effective Flood Response and Flood Mitigation Strategies

As the frequency and severity of flooding continue to rise due to climate change, governments, organizations, and communities must adopt more effective strategies to mitigate flood risks and improve response efforts.

Enhanced early warning systems

Early warning systems are a cornerstone of effective flood response, providing communities with crucial lead time to take protective action. The rise of innovative technologies has transformed flood monitoring and response, making it possible to track conditions in real time and detect changes that signal an impending flood.

Remote sensing technologies like satellites and drones provide high-resolution images of flood-prone areas, helping authorities assess damage, track water levels, and identify vulnerable locations. These tools are invaluable for monitoring remote or hard-to-reach regions, ensuring that even the most isolated areas are covered during critical weather events.

Forecasting models use hydrological and meteorological data to predict when and where floods may occur, as well as their potential magnitude. Ensemble forecasting, which combines multiple models, offers a more comprehensive prediction, allowing emergency services to better prepare for and respond to flood threats.

Stream and river gauges are key for monitoring rising water levels in rivers and streams. When integrated with early warning systems, these gauges trigger alerts when water surpasses critical thresholds, enabling rapid response to prevent or mitigate flood damage in affected areas.

Emergency Response Planning and Community Preparedness

Emergency response planning is the backbone of any flood mitigation strategy, and it requires detailed, well-rehearsed protocols.

Developing community-based response plans

Communities are often the first line of defense when it comes to flood response. Developing community-based response plans empowers residents to take ownership of their flood preparedness.

These plans should focus on local risk factors, like proximity to rivers or coastal areas, and outline specific steps for residents to follow during a flood event. Community-based plans should also address the needs of vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, disabled, or low-income families, to ensure they receive additional support during an emergency.

Construct flood-resistant infrastructure 

Specific infrastructure measures such as the construction of stormwater retention reservoirs, renaturation of rivers and wetlands, de-paving of urban areas, and the construction of side channels like the Neue Donau (New Danube) build in Vienna in the 1970’s to provide flood relief by channeling excess water out of Vienna City, help to make cities more resilient to flooding events.

Educating the public on flood risks and safety measures

One of the most effective ways to reduce the impact of floods is through public education.

Communities need to be well-informed about flood risks in their area and understand how to protect themselves and their property when flooding occurs.

Public awareness campaigns should cover important topics like:

How to recognize flood warning signsWhat to include in an emergency flood kitHow to safely evacuate during a floodSteps to protect homes and businesses, such as elevating electrical equipment or using water barriers

Learn more: Global Perspectives: Understanding the Differences in Emergency Response Programs 

Planning for a Resilient Future

To build a more resilient future, governments, businesses, and communities need to work together to anticipate and adapt to the evolving nature of risks associated with climate change. This means improving early warning systems, enacting energy transition plans, and investing in resilient infrastructure.

As we look ahead, adopting a holistic approach to climate adaptation — one that incorporates diverse strategies across sectors — will be essential for safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and economies.

Is your entity ready to address disaster preparedness? Learn more about our Emergency Response Programs & Training

Inogen Alliance is a global network made up of dozens of independent local businesses and over 6,000 consultants around the world who can help make your project a success. Our Associates collaborate closely to serve multinational corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, and we share knowledge and industry experience to provide the highest quality service to our clients. If you want to learn more about how you can work with Inogen Alliance, you can explore our Associates or Contact Us. Watch for more News & Blog updates here and follow us on LinkedIn.

BELLEVUE, Wash., September 25, 2024 /3BL/ – Since 2020, T-Mobile (NASDAQ: TMUS)’s $10.7 billion Project 10Million (P10M) initiative has delivered reliable and affordable internet service to more than 6 million young learners across the U.S., but even with that progress the need for connectivity has only continued to rise. Technology use in education has seen a massive 226% surge over the past five years that spans classroom and homework. School-related tasks from digital assignments to research, video streaming, video lessons, and web calls require more data. And a vast majority of students are working from homes with multiple users. All of this on top of an up to 17 million school age children across the U.S. who still may not have reliable internet access at all, according to the FCC. To meet this continued demand, the Un-carrier announced that it is enriching its P10M program, increasing the data allowance for many students to better meet user needs and partnering with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and artist and activist Common to help even more youth get the access they need to be successful.

Starting Sept. 26, qualifying kindergarten through 12th grade student families who sign up for P10M with T-Mobile will now receive 200GB per year for five years, twice the previous 100GB allotment. Current Project 10Million families with T-Mobile will also enjoy increased data for the remainder of their five years. Student families will also be able to purchase a new highly discounted 10GB data pass for just $10 if they hit their data limit. And, starting in October 2024, school districts with the greatest needs served by P10M will have the opportunity to receive more data for their students — also up to 200GB.

To continue helping bridge the digital divide and reach more students, the Un-carrier is also partnering with Boys & Girls Clubs of America to hold enrollment campaigns and sign-up events nationwide. Two events were recently held alongside Oscar, Emmy and Grammy award-winning artist and activist Common, a champion of digital equity, education and T-Mobile’s Project 10Million; one was held on Sept. 6 in Dallas, and the other one in the Bronx, New York, on Sept. 24.

“We launched our groundbreaking Project 10Million program back in 2020 with a simple goal – to provide free or highly subsidized home Internet to up to 10Million students at home, so they won’t fall behind in school,” said Mike Sievert, CEO, T-Mobile. “And today, after providing more than 6 million students with the critical Internet access they need to succeed, we’re making the program even better than ever, with a set of program enhancements, to help our largest and most important community program to make an even bigger impact.” 

“Our Club professionals are dedicated to ensuring all youth have the resources and support they need to achieve academic success. We believe strongly in the power of collaboration and community, which is why we’re joining forces with T-Mobile to make sure families with school-aged children have access to the essential connectivity that enables all youth to unlock their full potential,” said Jim Clark, President and CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of America. 

Additional Project 10Million back-to-school activations have been held or are to come in Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Tacoma, Washington; Kansas City, Missouri; and Oklahoma City.

T-Mobile announced Project 10Million in 2019 and launched the program in 2020 with the goal of offering 10 million at-risk students a free hotspot, free data plans, and access to at-cost laptops and tablets and has continued to improve the initiative to include a portfolio of options for schools and families. To date the company has provided $6.9 billion in products and services and connected over 6 million students through P10M to help close the digital divide. To learn more and sign up go to www.t-mobile.com/project10million.

###

Data enhancements available for households eligible for the National School Lunch Program that sign up for Project 10Million directly with T-Mobile. Schools working with T-Mobile to provide access to Project 10Million for qualifying student populations may also be able to participate in these program enhancements. During congestion, Project 10Million customers may notice speeds lower than other customers due to data prioritization. Video typically streams in SD quality. Verify National School Lunch Program eligibility at signup.

About T-Mobile 
T-Mobile US, Inc. (NASDAQ: TMUS) is America’s supercharged Un-carrier, delivering an advanced 4G LTE and transformative nationwide 5G network that will offer reliable connectivity for all. T-Mobile’s customers benefit from its unmatched combination of value and quality, unwavering obsession with offering them the best possible service experience and undisputable drive for disruption that creates competition and innovation in wireless and beyond. Based in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile provides services through its subsidiaries and operates its flagship brands, T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile and Mint Mobile. For more information please visit: https://www.t-mobile.com

About Boys & Girls Clubs of America 
For more than 160 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA.org) has provided a safe place for kids and teens to learn and grow. Clubs offer caring adult mentors, fun and friendship, and high-impact youth development programs on a daily basis during critical non-school hours. Boys & Girls Clubs programming promotes academic success, good character and leadership, and healthy lifestyles. Over 5,400 Clubs serve more than 3 million young people through Club membership and community outreach. Clubs are located in cities, towns, public housing and on Native lands throughout the country, and serve military families in BGCA-affiliated Youth Centers on U.S. military installations worldwide. The national headquarters is located in Atlanta. Learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of America on Facebook and X.

BELLEVUE, Wash., September 25, 2024 /3BL/ – Since 2020, T-Mobile (NASDAQ: TMUS)’s $10.7 billion Project 10Million (P10M) initiative has delivered reliable and affordable internet service to more than 6 million young learners across the U.S., but even with that progress the need for connectivity has only continued to rise. Technology use in education has seen a massive 226% surge over the past five years that spans classroom and homework. School-related tasks from digital assignments to research, video streaming, video lessons, and web calls require more data. And a vast majority of students are working from homes with multiple users. All of this on top of an up to 17 million school age children across the U.S. who still may not have reliable internet access at all, according to the FCC. To meet this continued demand, the Un-carrier announced that it is enriching its P10M program, increasing the data allowance for many students to better meet user needs and partnering with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and artist and activist Common to help even more youth get the access they need to be successful.

Starting Sept. 26, qualifying kindergarten through 12th grade student families who sign up for P10M with T-Mobile will now receive 200GB per year for five years, twice the previous 100GB allotment. Current Project 10Million families with T-Mobile will also enjoy increased data for the remainder of their five years. Student families will also be able to purchase a new highly discounted 10GB data pass for just $10 if they hit their data limit. And, starting in October 2024, school districts with the greatest needs served by P10M will have the opportunity to receive more data for their students — also up to 200GB.

To continue helping bridge the digital divide and reach more students, the Un-carrier is also partnering with Boys & Girls Clubs of America to hold enrollment campaigns and sign-up events nationwide. Two events were recently held alongside Oscar, Emmy and Grammy award-winning artist and activist Common, a champion of digital equity, education and T-Mobile’s Project 10Million; one was held on Sept. 6 in Dallas, and the other one in the Bronx, New York, on Sept. 24.

“We launched our groundbreaking Project 10Million program back in 2020 with a simple goal – to provide free or highly subsidized home Internet to up to 10Million students at home, so they won’t fall behind in school,” said Mike Sievert, CEO, T-Mobile. “And today, after providing more than 6 million students with the critical Internet access they need to succeed, we’re making the program even better than ever, with a set of program enhancements, to help our largest and most important community program to make an even bigger impact.” 

“Our Club professionals are dedicated to ensuring all youth have the resources and support they need to achieve academic success. We believe strongly in the power of collaboration and community, which is why we’re joining forces with T-Mobile to make sure families with school-aged children have access to the essential connectivity that enables all youth to unlock their full potential,” said Jim Clark, President and CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of America. 

Additional Project 10Million back-to-school activations have been held or are to come in Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Tacoma, Washington; Kansas City, Missouri; and Oklahoma City.

T-Mobile announced Project 10Million in 2019 and launched the program in 2020 with the goal of offering 10 million at-risk students a free hotspot, free data plans, and access to at-cost laptops and tablets and has continued to improve the initiative to include a portfolio of options for schools and families. To date the company has provided $6.9 billion in products and services and connected over 6 million students through P10M to help close the digital divide. To learn more and sign up go to www.t-mobile.com/project10million.

###

Data enhancements available for households eligible for the National School Lunch Program that sign up for Project 10Million directly with T-Mobile. Schools working with T-Mobile to provide access to Project 10Million for qualifying student populations may also be able to participate in these program enhancements. During congestion, Project 10Million customers may notice speeds lower than other customers due to data prioritization. Video typically streams in SD quality. Verify National School Lunch Program eligibility at signup.

About T-Mobile 
T-Mobile US, Inc. (NASDAQ: TMUS) is America’s supercharged Un-carrier, delivering an advanced 4G LTE and transformative nationwide 5G network that will offer reliable connectivity for all. T-Mobile’s customers benefit from its unmatched combination of value and quality, unwavering obsession with offering them the best possible service experience and undisputable drive for disruption that creates competition and innovation in wireless and beyond. Based in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile provides services through its subsidiaries and operates its flagship brands, T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile and Mint Mobile. For more information please visit: https://www.t-mobile.com

About Boys & Girls Clubs of America 
For more than 160 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA.org) has provided a safe place for kids and teens to learn and grow. Clubs offer caring adult mentors, fun and friendship, and high-impact youth development programs on a daily basis during critical non-school hours. Boys & Girls Clubs programming promotes academic success, good character and leadership, and healthy lifestyles. Over 5,400 Clubs serve more than 3 million young people through Club membership and community outreach. Clubs are located in cities, towns, public housing and on Native lands throughout the country, and serve military families in BGCA-affiliated Youth Centers on U.S. military installations worldwide. The national headquarters is located in Atlanta. Learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of America on Facebook and X.

Originally published in Mary Kay’s 2024 Sustainability Report

Mary Kay’s mission of enriching women’s lives as well as its approach to sustainability and corporate social responsibility exemplify what positive impact means for women and their families, local and global communities, and the next generation of STEM women leaders.

“I’ve often said that we are doing something far more important than just selling cosmetics; we are changing lives.”

Mary Kay Ash 

PINK CHANGING LIVES® 

The shape of our hearts 
Every day, Mary Kay makes a global commitment to improve the lives of women and their families. Through our Pink Changing Lives program, we empower women, transform lives, care for the planet, and inspire others. Pink Changing Lives is entirely funded by a portion of designated product sales in participating Mary Kay markets. Through Pink Changing Lives, Mary Kay supports women-related cancer research and programs, helps ending domestic violence, finding solutions to environmental issues, and fighting poverty around the world. In 2023, Mary Kay featured a limited-edition heart-shaped makeup brush through the program. Since 20008, the program has raised over $18 million.

SINCE 2008:

6 MILLION women and families positively impacted3,250 partner organizations around the world$18 MILLION DONATED

WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT

When women advance, everyone wins 
In 2019, Mary Kay joined forces with six United Nations agencies to form the Women’s Entrepreneurship Accelerator (WEA), a groundbreaking partnership with a commitment to alleviate barriers to women’s entrepreneurship. Since the launch, WEA has engaged 600,000+ women and 110+ partners in global and regional high-level events and programs. The Digital Innovation Challenge for Women Entrepreneurs asked women-owned and -led startups to create solutions in support of the UN’ SDGs. The contest received 250 submissions from 50 countries and held a pitch event during the Commission on Status of Women (CSW67). On International Women’s Entrepreneurship Day, Mary Kay became a signatory of the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) in the Asia Pacific region. The WEPs provide a holistic framework for companies to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment in the workplace, marketplace and community and drive positive outcomes for society and business. 

NEXT GEN 

Fostering the next generation of STEM women leaders 
Mary Kay is committed to providing higher education grants and STEM learning opportunities to build a robust pipeline of female talent in STEM focused fields. Since 2020, the company has awarded 29 grants totaling $195,000 to young women from over 13 countries. In celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, Mary Kay hosted a STEM Youth Summit at the Richard R. Rogers (R3) Manufacturing and R&D Center, our global facility in Texas. At Mary Kay, 63% of our R&D team are women. 

COMPANY SPONSORED FOUNDATIONS

Since 19961, Mary Kay and its four company sponsored foundations have contributed nearly $225 million in documented monetary and product donations to organizations fighting cancers affecting women, helping to end domestic violence, providing education for women and girls, protecting the planet, and so much more across the globe.

DID YOU KNOW?

In 2023, Mary Kay Ash was recognized by USA Today as one of the “100 Women of the Century” who have significantly impacted their communities and country.

 

1 While the company has provided philanthropic support to charitable causes for many decades, official documentation began in 1996 with the founding of the Mary Kay Ash Foundation® (U.S.)

Originally published in Mary Kay’s 2024 Sustainability Report

Mary Kay’s mission of enriching women’s lives as well as its approach to sustainability and corporate social responsibility exemplify what positive impact means for women and their families, local and global communities, and the next generation of STEM women leaders.

“I’ve often said that we are doing something far more important than just selling cosmetics; we are changing lives.”

Mary Kay Ash 

PINK CHANGING LIVES® 

The shape of our hearts 
Every day, Mary Kay makes a global commitment to improve the lives of women and their families. Through our Pink Changing Lives program, we empower women, transform lives, care for the planet, and inspire others. Pink Changing Lives is entirely funded by a portion of designated product sales in participating Mary Kay markets. Through Pink Changing Lives, Mary Kay supports women-related cancer research and programs, helps ending domestic violence, finding solutions to environmental issues, and fighting poverty around the world. In 2023, Mary Kay featured a limited-edition heart-shaped makeup brush through the program. Since 20008, the program has raised over $18 million.

SINCE 2008:

6 MILLION women and families positively impacted3,250 partner organizations around the world$18 MILLION DONATED

WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT

When women advance, everyone wins 
In 2019, Mary Kay joined forces with six United Nations agencies to form the Women’s Entrepreneurship Accelerator (WEA), a groundbreaking partnership with a commitment to alleviate barriers to women’s entrepreneurship. Since the launch, WEA has engaged 600,000+ women and 110+ partners in global and regional high-level events and programs. The Digital Innovation Challenge for Women Entrepreneurs asked women-owned and -led startups to create solutions in support of the UN’ SDGs. The contest received 250 submissions from 50 countries and held a pitch event during the Commission on Status of Women (CSW67). On International Women’s Entrepreneurship Day, Mary Kay became a signatory of the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) in the Asia Pacific region. The WEPs provide a holistic framework for companies to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment in the workplace, marketplace and community and drive positive outcomes for society and business. 

NEXT GEN 

Fostering the next generation of STEM women leaders 
Mary Kay is committed to providing higher education grants and STEM learning opportunities to build a robust pipeline of female talent in STEM focused fields. Since 2020, the company has awarded 29 grants totaling $195,000 to young women from over 13 countries. In celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, Mary Kay hosted a STEM Youth Summit at the Richard R. Rogers (R3) Manufacturing and R&D Center, our global facility in Texas. At Mary Kay, 63% of our R&D team are women. 

COMPANY SPONSORED FOUNDATIONS

Since 19961, Mary Kay and its four company sponsored foundations have contributed nearly $225 million in documented monetary and product donations to organizations fighting cancers affecting women, helping to end domestic violence, providing education for women and girls, protecting the planet, and so much more across the globe.

DID YOU KNOW?

In 2023, Mary Kay Ash was recognized by USA Today as one of the “100 Women of the Century” who have significantly impacted their communities and country.

 

1 While the company has provided philanthropic support to charitable causes for many decades, official documentation began in 1996 with the founding of the Mary Kay Ash Foundation® (U.S.)