A window into what we are reading at the Wilson Center’s Environmental Change and Security Program

A Warming World is Accelerating the Spread of Dengue

Dengue is now endemic in most Latin American countries. But scientists warn that a warming climate is increasing the pace of breeding and transmission of dengue-carrying mosquitoes, and bring them into new countries.

As rates of dengue increase worldwide, Peru is facing some of the worst impacts of the disease following its “coastal El Niño” in 2017, which brought warmer weather and a consequential spike in dengue cases, ultimately overwhelming the fragile healthcare system.

Mosquito-control programs, such as one developed by the World Mosquito Program, and new vaccines could help counter the spread of the disease, but one thing is certain—we need to get ahead of the curve.

READ | In Harm’s Way: Our Actions Put People and Wildlife at Risk of Disease

Climate and Poor Planning Exacerbate the Impacts of India’s Monsoon Season

This year’s monsoon season in India was particularly devastating. While northern India faced extreme rains and landslides, the south experienced the driest monsoon season since 1901. Himachal Pradesh’s local government estimates that the monsoons killed 428 people and caused $1.42 billion in property damages from July to September.

These deadly monsoons have highlighted infrastructure weaknesses where roads, dams, and settlements have been built on flooding and earthquake-prone land, increasing the risk of devastation.

As communities feel the effects of monsoon season, the state is adopting climate policies to adapt to changing, and more extreme, weather patterns. Yet, India’s 2022 comprehensive climate action plan has not been fully implemented, reports Sibi Arasu for AP.

READ | Foresight for Action: Improving Predictive Capabilities for Extreme Weather and Water Events in Pakistan

Adapting to Conflict and Climate Change through Local Project Contracting

 Prolonged conflict, economic challenges, and climate change have increased the vulnerability of many Yemenis. To improve their lives and strengthen their livelihoods, UNDP and the Public Works Project (PWP) are working to enhance food production and essential services through projects focused on community contracting.

These projects—focused on rebuilding vital infrastructure—involve community members in every aspect, from project planning to implementation, thereby strengthening community bonds and trust and empowering residents through economic opportunity and skill development.

One such project, the rehabilitation of irrigation ditches in Yemen’s Shabwa Governorate, is alleviating water scarcity for farmers and providing jobs. As reported by UNDP, Muhammad Saleh, a resident and member of the program, said the “project offered me a job,” which boosted his income amid climate change and conflict by providing skills through job opportunities and training. 

READ | Climate Adaptation at COP28: Eyes on the Middle East