WIPO China: At COP 30: New Green Technology Book Unveils Solutions to Confront Climate Disasters

As extreme weather intensifies and disaster losses rise, the new edition arrives at a pivotal moment. "Climate disasters are no longer exceptional events—they are part of our shared reality," WIPO Green Technology and Research Manager Peter Oksen said in the launch event.

The Green Technology Book: Solutions for Confronting Climate Disasters highlights how innovation is transforming the way societies prepare for, respond to, and recover from climate-driven crises. It showcases both cutting-edge and practical solutions—from AI-driven forecasting to modular shelters and resilient infrastructure—that are redefining disaster risk management. The book illustrates the transformative power of innovation, underpinned by an efficient intellectual property rights system.

The COP launch event brought together a diverse range of global leaders involved in technology, innovation, climate change and disaster response to highlight how they deploy solutions for climate disaster preparedness and response. These included the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN), United Nations office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Egyptian Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT), Natura, and the Adaptation Fund.

The partners underscored the prevalence of disasters around the world and their increasing threat as climate impacts worsen with each passing year. They also emphasized technology's role in both preparing for and responding to disasters. Disaster technologies are incredibly diverse – ranging from very simple rain gauges to the most complex satellite systems. The key is to combine these low and high-tech solutions to help communities and societies respond more efficiently and effectively.

Angela Pinhati, Chief Sustainability Officer and WIPO GREEN Ambassador to Brazil, discussed the importance of vulnerability assessments in increasing resilience among suppliers. Loretta Hieber Girardet of UNDRR spoke about the importance of artificial intelligence and its power to transform disaster risk reduction. AI, she said, enables multi-source data to be analyzed together to understand how risks interact and cascade. Amir Delju of WMO emphasized the importance of technology in advancing earth observation, noting the immense progress in computer and data science that informs our understanding of interactions between the atmosphere, earth, and the ocean. And Ms. Ariesta Ningrum, Director of the CTCN, highlighted the role technology plays in projects in Sudan and Nigeria.

Mr. Oksen concluded the event by underscoring the use of technology and innovation as part, if not all, of the solution, and emphasizing that available solutions are ready to meet climate challenges despite failures of political will and overcautious policies. WIPO Green continues to combat climate change through spreading the word about the positive role technology can play.

Please visit our website to learn more about The Green Technology Handbook: Climate Disaster Response Solutions.

Key messages from the book

1. Disaster preparedness and response technologies are advancing rapidly  

Technologies for disaster preparedness and response already exist and are rapidly advancing, from AI-driven forecasting and drones to resilient infrastructure and digital logistics platforms. Ensuring equitable access and inclusive design is essential so that all communities, especially the most vulnerable, can benefit and strengthen global resilience.

2. Disaster risk prevention investment is more cost-effective

Investing in disaster preparedness and risk reduction is far more cost-effective than responding after crises occur, yet global funding for prevention remains critically low. Tapping into technology, risk-layered financing, and pre-arranged mechanisms can accelerate response, reduce losses, and ensure that communities are protected.

3. Modern information technology significantly improves disaster response efficiency

Technologies like AI, IoT sensors, drones, and satellites give responders real-time visibility and predictive foresight, enabling proactive, data-driven decisions. This improves efficiency, shortens response times, and ensures critical resources reach the right place at the right time, ultimately saving more lives.

4. Integrating technology and management to develop holistic adaptation strategies

Effective disaster response blends advanced technologies with local knowledge and nature-based solutions, creating holistic, adaptive approaches.

Combining AI, satellites, drones, and analytics with community practices and low-tech measures ensures timely, equitable, and resilient outcomes. 

5. Digital intelligence supports disaster response shifting from reactive to proactive

Disaster response is shifting from reactive to proactive, using AI, digital twins, early warning systems, and predictive analytics to anticipate crises before they strike. This fusion of digital intelligence and physical response enables timely aid, pre-positioned resources, and more resilient, flexible disaster management.

Green Energy Solutions

The WIPO Green Technology Book presents a comprehensive set of solutions, all connected to the WIPO GREEN Database of Needs and Green Technologies. The database showcases a wider array of green solutions and facilitates direct contact with technology proprietors. Additionally, the WIPO Green Technology Book serves as an important matchmaking tool for fostering connections and partnerships in the field. 

Previous editions of the Green Technology Book

The previous editions of the WIPO Green Technology Book on Climate Adaptation and Climate Mitigation were released at the COP 27 - 29 respectively.  These books are "living publications" building on the work of the WIPO GREEN platform, which connects green technology providers from around the world with people seeking environmentally friendly solutions.

Please visit our website to explore previous editions of the Green Technology Book.