On 18-19 August, Petra Dankers of Haskoning represented EcoShape at the forum “Resilient Coasts, Thriving Communities: A Sea of Solutions,” hosted by the Government of Kerala and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) at the Grand Hyatt in Kochi, India.
With India’s 7,525 km of coastline supporting over 170 million people, discussions at the forum focused on how to balance climate resilience, sustainable development, and thriving coastal communities. India’s coastal regions hold enormous socioeconomic value – from fisheries and aquaculture to tourism, renewable energy, and trade – but are facing increasing challenges from climate change, pollution, and unsustainable development.
Key themes of the forum included:
- Valuing blue natural capital and marine biodiversity
- Showcasing innovative international and national best practices
- Promoting cross-sectoral and inclusive approaches to coastal resilience
- Strengthening partnerships between governments, scientists, and researchers
- Facilitating knowledge exchange within India to support impactful policies and investments
The forum’s nine sessions spanned a broad range of themes, from innovative financing and planning tools to sustainable fisheries, green ports, and marine pollution control, alongside interactive discussions, cultural performances, and opportunities for networking. EcoShape representative Petra Dankers contributed to the Second Session: Coastal Resilience and Protection Solutions, which explored how vulnerable coastal areas can adapt to and recover from the impacts of extreme natural hazards and climate change. Showcasing, with real examples on implemented EcoShape concepts for Nature-based Solutions, how these solutions can be implemented and what they can deliver for society and biodiversity.
This 2-day forum was an inspiring step toward building the partnerships and strategies needed for resilient coasts and thriving communities! We would like to thank the Asian Development Bank and the Government of Kerala for the inspirational 2-days and to give EcoShape the opportunity to make steps towards the purpose of ‘creating the enabling environment for Nature-based Solutions’.
