This virtual Side Event to the Third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3) (Nice, 9-13 Jun 2025) will highlight the urgency of disaster- and climate-resilient coastal infrastructure by bridging science, policy and finance. Anchored in the Council on Energy, Environment and Water’s data-driven risk assessment frameworks and recommendations emerging from CDRI’s 2025 International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure focusing on SIDS, the session will showcase how digital technologies, inclusive governance, and innovative finance can enable adaptive, risk-informed infrastructure. It will reinforce the linkages between infrastructure resilience, climate adaptation and ocean sustainability under SDGs 9, 13 and 14.

Panel: Experts from SIDS, UNDP, IGOs, CEEW and CDRI.

Key Discussion Areas:

1. Harnessing Data and Technology for Adaptive Action: Leveraging AI, GIS and digital twin technologies for real-time risk assessment and early warning systems.
2. Strengthening Codes and Standards: Establishing and enforcing climate-resilient infrastructure standards tailored for coastal regions, especially SIDS.
3. Scaling Up Access to Finance: Mobilizing innovative financing, including blue bonds and resilience funds, to support resilient infrastructure and climate adaptation.
4. Enhancing Preparedness and Inclusion: Integrating community-driven solutions and gender inclusion in infrastructure planning and implementation.