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Medellín's Slums Build Resilience Against Climate Disasters
17 Apr
Summary
- Communities developed disaster risk and climate adaptation plans.
- Nature-based solutions like rainwater harvesting and tree nurseries are key.
- Collaboration between residents, universities, and city departments is vital.
Communities in Medellín, Colombia, are actively enhancing their resilience to landslides and flooding through nature-based solutions. In Golondrinas, Róbinson Velásquez Cartagena has pioneered rainwater harvesting systems to mitigate disaster risks. This initiative is part of Comuna 8's Local Agreement for Inclusive Climate Action, developed since 2020 and formally launched in August 2023.
The plan, a model for Medellín's 4 million residents, includes eight measures such as managing rainwater, reforestation for erosion control, and establishing eco-gardens. These community-driven efforts aim to tackle climate risks in informal settlements prone to disasters due to inadequate engineering.
Nancy Elena Quiros Correa manages a tree nursery in El Pacifico, vital for preventing rockfalls and absorbing rainwater. Her experience with past landslides highlights the urgent need for such climate adaptation strategies. Heriot-Watt University professor Harry Smith notes these projects also combat land invasion.
The success in Comuna 8 has informed a city-wide plan for all 21 comunas, emphasizing close collaboration with residents who understand local hazards. While celebrated, securing consistent government support and funding remains a challenge for these grassroots initiatives.
