CoP on SIDS - Expert Group 1: Data & Technology

About 37 percent of the world's population lives within 100 km of the coast, where the population density is twice the global average. These coastal communities contribute an estimated US$ 1.5 trillion to global GDP annually, a figure projected to rise to almost US$ 3 trillion by 2030. In addition, nearly 90 percent of the goods being moved globally are transported by sea. The interconnectedness and interdependence of critical infrastructure in coastal areas amplifies this increasing risk, leading to higher dynamic risks and cascading impacts. The risks to critical services such as health, transport, power and telecommunications are exacerbated by aging infrastructure, poor maintenance and their establishment in hazard-prone areas. While all coastal areas face these increasing challenges, for SIDS, their remoteness and geographic location compounds their vulnerability.

The International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure will happen on 6 and 7 June 2025, in Nice, France, and will align with and support the broader outcomes of the third UN Oceans Conference (UNOC3). To prepare for ICDRI, CDRI has formed a Community of Practice for global experts and practitioners, and within this, established four Expert Groups. These experts will guide the development of the agenda and produce bespoke thought pieces to inform the deliberations and outcomes of ICDRI 2025.