Early Warnings for All

Source– This post is based on the article “Early Warnings for All” published on the website of United Nations.

Why in the News?

This article discusses the aim and benefits of Early Warnings for All initiative.

What is Early Warnings for All Initiative?

1) The “Early Warnings for All” initiative is a groundbreaking effort to ensure that everyone on Earth is protected from hazardous weather, water, or climate events through life-saving early warning systems by the end of 2027.

2) It was launched by UN Secretary-General in March 2022.

3) The initiative is being led by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)

4) It calls for over $3 billion investment over five years to strengthen-
a. Disaster risk knowledge
b. Observation and forecasting
c. Warning dissemination
d. Response capabilities

5) It leverages existing pooled funding mechanisms, such as the Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems initiative and the Systematic Observations Financing Facility, as well as global multilateral funds including the Green Climate Fund and the development banks.

6) The initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, Paris Agreement and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction. 

Why is there a need for Early Warning Systems?

1) These systems are a cost-effective tool that saves lives, reduces economic losses, and provides a nearly tenfold return on investment.

2) Early warning systems have helped decrease the number of deaths resulting from hazardous weather, water, or climate events.

3) They hold significance as we witness increase in frequencies of extreme climate events with climate change.

UPSC Syllabus- Environment