The CDR Program provides technical assistance to the University and its affiliates to support the integration of climate mitigation and adaptation options in policies and structures. Mitigation initiatives involve the monitoring and reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, while adaptation initiatives include assessing and managing climate impacts and potential risks to avert disasters. Such initiatives also align and resonate with the Laudato Si’ Goals such as responding to the cry of the earth, adopting sustainable lifestyles, and practicing ecological economics. Projects and events in support of this priority area include:

• Ateneo Climate Action Plan
• Climate and disaster risk assessments

The CDR Program serves as a platform for interdisciplinary research connecting the different units of the University, its affiliates, and external partners to broaden and deepen our understanding of climate and disaster resilience. Applying a systems approach is key towards better articulating root drivers and identifying leverage points, including where nature-based solutions can be prioritized. Insights from research are translated into development or planning tools, strategic materials for education and capacity-building, and technical advisory services. These will help promote ecological education, in accordance with the Laudato Si’ Goals. Projects and events in support of this priority area include:

• Systems thinking workshops for climate and disaster resilience
• Learning sessions and trainings on climate change and disaster risk
• Knowledge products on climate and disaster resilience and sustainability

The CDR Program engages in consortia and networks across different sectors to help empower communities to articulate their visions of resilient futures. The Program espouses a principle of collaboration and co-production that is not prescriptive in terms of targets but instead allows stakeholders to actively shape their communities towards sustainability and resilience. This is aligned with the Laudato Si’ Goal on community resilience and empowerment. The Program bridges stakeholders and helps distill insights and recommendations for future research as well as for policy-making. Projects and events in support of this priority area include:

• My Climate Risk (MCR) regional hub
• My Climate Risk webinars and learning sessions
• Interdisciplinary consortia, collaborations, and workshops