ABSTRACT
PurposeIndigenous peoples represent one of the most vulnerable groups and need access as well as hands-on experience in the use of emerging Earth observations (EO)-based DRR solutions at the community level, while balancing this learning with traditional indigenous knowledge (IK). However, complicating any engagement between EO and IK is the reality that IKs are diverse and dynamic, with location-specific relevance and accuracy. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic caused complex risks and cascading effects for which the world was not prepared. Thus, there is a need to examine the lessons learned and motivate emerging EO-based innovations and demonstrations related to DRR and climate change adaptation.Design/methodology/approachHence, this study aims to undertake an in-depth assessment of IK related to DRR covering relevant UN instruments and provides state-of-the-art of opportunities presented by EO-based tools and solutions.FindingsThe overall research strategy was designed to integrate key components of IK for DRR in a coherent and logical way, with those offered by the EO technology developers and providers. There are several EO tools accessible that are relevant to integrate IK and complement DRR. The study examined and identified challenges and barriers to implement workable and replicable EO solutions in pursuit of resilience.Originality/valueThe key findings of this study will help create a balanced approach by acknowledging the importance of IK for DRR with co-development, co-creation and use of culturally relevant EO data and tools for sustainable innovation, capacity building and youth empowerment. The technological inequalities appear to be growing, and it would be challenging to meet the Sendai Framework indicators.
ABSTRACT
The Gemini High-Resolution Optical SpecTrograph (GHOST) is the next in line instrument being integrated for the Gemini south telescope, in a collaboration between the Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) at Macquarie University, Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics (HAA) at the National Research Council Canada, and the Australian National University ( ANU). This paper will discuss shipping considerations and data taken by the NRC-Herzberg and Gemini team to preserve and protect the instrument during a two year hiatus brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
ABSTRACT
The disruption that the COVID pandemic has caused to our daily lives has made many people aware of the need to transform our relationships and interactions away from the priorities emphasised under neoliberal globalisation in order to better secure successful human societies. For Indigenous peoples, the importance of relationships, respect and connections has long underpinned cultural affirmation, strength and survival. This chapter investigates the role of Indigenous welcome ceremonies in not only affirming, maintaining and strengthening culture, but also in establishing respect and connections with non-Indigenous peoples. In particular, this chapter looks at the specific examples of Australian Aboriginal Welcomes to Country and Acknowledgements and Maori powhiri and haka ceremonies in Aotearoa New Zealand. The authors, an Aboriginal Australian man and a Maori man, track the history of tourism through mass consumption to “new” “socialisation”, and outline the role of welcome ceremonies in not only affirming and strengthening culture, but also in providing ways for non-Indigenous visitors to engage with, learn about and connect with Indigenous cultures and histories. Conducting welcome ceremonies at tourist attractions and destination areas can provide an empowering way for tourism hosts and visitors to learn and connect with each other, with the local people and history of the land they are visiting. © 2022 selection and editorial matter, Freya Higgins-Desbiolles, Adam Doering and Bobbie Chew Bigby.