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 & Students
Disaster 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 Leaders
https://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