Summer Grab Bag: No, Disasters Aren't "Natural" + Microinfrastructure, Heat and Adaptation Lessons from the Global South

In episode 259 of America Adapts, host Doug Parsons brings together two conversations for an end-of-summer adaptation grab bag. First, Doug talks with Anita Van Breda of World Wildlife Fund about why we should stop using the term "natural disaster." Anita explains the distinction between natural hazards and disasters, and how choices about development, vulnerability, and the environment shape the damage that follows. Doug then speaks with Bishal Thapa of CLASP about the overlooked role of efficient appliances and equipment in climate adaptation. They explore the idea of appliances as "microinfrastructure"—from fans and air conditioners that reduce heat risk to refrigeration, cold storage, and solar water pumps that support food security and livelihoods. They also discuss financing and what adaptation efforts in the Global South can teach the rest of the world. Transcript of episode available here. Subscribe to the America Adapts newsletter here. Links in this episode:  Report:  Powering Thriving Communities: Efficient Appliances for Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience Previous America Adapts Episodes with Anita Van Breda  Flood Management: Nature Based Approaches and International Collaborations  Flooding and Natural and Nature-Based Solutions: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Flooding  Flooding, Climate Change, and Art  Reducing Disaster Risk: The Workforce of the Future  Key Themes Covered in This Episode Why disasters aren't "natural" How human choices shape disaster risk and vulnerability Appliances as climate adaptation "microinfrastructure" Extreme heat, cooling access, and energy efficiency Getting microinfrastructure into adaptation planning Adaptation lessons from the Global South For Educators & StudentsDisaster risk and the language of "natural disasters" Human vulnerability and societal choices Microinfrastructure as climate adaptation Extreme heat and access to cooling Energy efficiency and adaptation Adaptation lessons from the Global South Who Should Listen to This Episode Climate adaptation professionals Disaster risk reduction practitioners Climate and resilience planners Policymakers and government officials Climate communicators and journalists Support for America Adapts helps make episodes like this possible, including more international conversations on how adaptation is unfolding globally. All donations are now tax deductible! Check out the America Adapts Media Kit here! Listen to America Adapts on your favorite app here! Facebook, Linkedin and Bluesky: https://www.facebook.com/americaadapts/ https://bsky.app/profile/americaadapts.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-parsons-america-adapts/ Doug Parsons and Speaking Opportunities: If you are interested in having Doug speak at corporate and conference events, sharing his unique, expert perspective on adaptation in an entertaining and informative way, Now on Spotify! List of Previous Guests on America Adapts Follow/listen to podcast on Apple Podcasts. The 10 Best Sustainability Podcasts for Environmental Business Leadershttps://us.anteagroup.com/news-events/blog/10-best-sustainability-podcasts-environmental-business-leaders For more information on this podcast, visit the website at http://www.americaadapts.org and don't forget to subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts.   Podcast Music produce by Richard Haitz Productions Write a review on Apple Podcasts ! America Adapts on Facebook!   Join the America Adapts Facebook Community Group. Check us out, we're also on YouTube! Subscribe to America Adapts on Apple Podcasts Doug can be contacted at americaadapts @ g mail . com