Australia, considered by many of us as “the lucky country”, is increasingly becoming unluckier due to the alarming consequences of climate change. From devastating bushfires to catastrophic floods and relentless heatwaves, the frequency and intensity of natural disasters are on the rise. It’s no longer a question of if a disaster will strike, but when. As a result, preparing for disasters, and boosting overall climate resilience is a key consideration for all Australians.
As a community-focused climate charity dedicated to accelerating the transition to renewable energy, CORENA understands the critical link between climate action and building resilience. This guide aims to equip you with practical ways to enhance disaster preparedness and climate resilience, while fostering stronger, more resilient communities.
Learn more in Climate Action Guide: 9 Ways Individuals & Households Can Tackle the Climate Emergency
Why & How Disasters Are Increasing in Frequency & Intensity
The science is clear: climate change is a key driver behind the escalating frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. Rising global temperatures fuel more intense heatwaves, alter rainfall patterns leading to both droughts and floods, and increase the likelihood of severe bushfires. The warming oceans also contribute to stronger cyclones.
Specifically, the increased atmospheric moisture capacity due to higher temperatures intensifies rainfall events, leading to more severe flooding. Drier conditions, coupled with prolonged heatwaves, create the perfect storm for bushfires. Rising sea levels exacerbate coastal flooding and storm surges. These climate-related shifts are not just abstract concepts; they translate into tangible impacts on Australian lives and livelihoods.
Learn more in Climate Emergency Declaration: How You Can Take Action
How To Prepare For Disasters
Depending on where you are in Australia, you may be more prone to some types of disasters more than others:
Bushfires
Bushfires are a perennial threat in Australia, especially during the hot dry summer months. Preparation is paramount.
- Create a Bushfire Survival Plan: Develop a comprehensive plan that includes evacuation routes, emergency contact information, and a designated meeting point. Your local emergency services often have online templates you can use to easily prepare a Bushfire Survival Plan such as this one by the WA Department of Fire and Emergency Services. Regularly practice this plan with your family.
- Prepare Your Property: Clear flammable materials from around your home, including dry vegetation, firewood, and debris.
- Assemble an Emergency Kit: Include essential items like a battery-powered radio, torch, first-aid kit, water, non-perishable food, and important documents.
- Stay Informed: Monitor weather forecasts and fire warnings through official sources like the Bureau of Meteorology and state fire services.
Flooding
Flooding can occur rapidly, at any time of the year, leaving little time for preparation.
- Know Your Flood Risk: Determine if your property is located in a flood-prone area. Check local council flood maps and historical flood data.
- Develop a Flood Plan: Identify safe evacuation routes and a higher ground location. Create a plan for moving valuable possessions and furniture to higher levels.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include waterproof containers for important documents, a first-aid kit, water purification tablets, and non-perishable food.
- Stay Informed: Monitor weather forecasts and flood warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology and state emergency services.
Cyclones
Cyclones bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges. They are most common and powerful in the northern tropical parts of Australia.
- Secure Your Property: Trim trees and remove loose objects that could become projectiles.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include a battery-powered radio, torch, first-aid kit, water, non-perishable food, and a portable generator.
- Develop a Cyclone Plan: Identify a safe shelter location and plan for evacuation if necessary.
- Stay Informed: Monitor cyclone warnings and updates from the Bureau of Meteorology.
Drought
Prolonged droughts can have devastating impacts on communities and agriculture.
- Conserve Water: Implement water-saving measures at home and in your garden.
- Support Local Farmers: Purchase locally grown produce and support initiatives that promote sustainable agriculture.
- Plan for Water Restrictions: Familiarise yourself with local water restrictions and develop strategies for coping with limited water supplies.
Heatwaves
Heatwaves can be particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations, especially if they persist for multiple days in a row.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water.
- Stay Cool: Seek out air-conditioned environments, such as shopping centres or libraries. Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day. Many local governments and community service organisations are beginning to set up local “heat refuges” for vulnerable people who may not have access to air conditioning.
- Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Check on elderly neighbours, family members, friends, and pets who may be more susceptible to heat stress.
- Prepare Your Home: Install window coverings to block sunlight and ensure your air conditioning is working efficiently.
How Renewable Energy Batteries Can Assist in Disasters
Renewable energy batteries offer a crucial lifeline during disasters. Solar panels paired with battery storage can provide backup power during grid outages, ensuring access to essential services and communication.
- Backup Power: Batteries can power lights, refrigerators, medical devices, and communication equipment during blackouts.
- Community Resilience: Battery storage systems can provide backup power to critical infrastructure, such as emergency shelters and hospitals.
- Grid Stability: Distributed battery storage can help stabilise the grid during periods of high demand, reducing the risk of blackouts.
Learn more in Solar Batteries: Why, When & How To Use Them
How Vehicle-To-Load (V2L) Can Assist in Disasters
Vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology allows electric vehicles (EVs) to discharge energy to appliances during power outages.
- Mobile Power Source: EVs can act as mobile power banks, providing backup power during emergencies.
- Community Support: In disaster scenarios, EVs can be used to power essential services in remote or isolated areas.
Other Ways to Improve Disaster Preparedness & Resilience
Beyond individual preparedness, building community resilience is crucial.
- Community Networks: Strengthen local community networks and support groups. These networks can provide vital assistance during emergencies.
- Emergency Drills: Participate in community emergency drills to practise evacuation procedures and test communication systems.
- Support Local Emergency Services: Volunteer with local emergency services, such as the Rural Fire Service or State Emergency Service.
- Invest in Climate Solutions: Support policies and initiatives that promote renewable energy, sustainable land management, and climate adaptation.
- Build Stronger Infrastructure: Advocate for investment in resilient infrastructure, such as flood-resistant roads and bridges, and fire-resistant building materials.
- Education: Increase education in schools and communities regarding disaster preparedness, and the impacts of climate change.
Learn more in How Organisations Can Strengthen Their Energy & Climate Resilience
Building resilience requires a collective effort. By taking proactive steps to prepare for disasters, and by supporting Australia’s Renewable Energy Revolution, we can create a safer and more sustainable country for generations to come. At CORENA, we believe that by empowering communities with renewable energy solutions and fostering a culture of preparedness, we can build a more resilient and sustainable future.
Interest Free Climate Project Loans For Non Profits, Community Organisations, Charities, & Social Enterprises
Reducing vulnerability to climate-related disasters is necessary, but not all organisations can afford the upfront cost on their own. CORENA works with a wide range of non profits and community organisations, providing technical advice and interest free loans to fund renewable energy, energy efficiency and other initiatives in order to help reduce their carbon footprint and work towards their net zero action plan.
We receive, record, and transparently report donations from the community. We use that money to give interest-free loans to fund projects that benefit the planet including:
- Community Energy
- Energy efficiency
- Getting off gas – Replacement of fossil gas appliances with electric alternatives
- Solar panels
- Electric vehicles
- A combination of the above
Learn more in 5 Ways CORENA Helps Non Profits Reduce Carbon Emissions & Energy Costs
You don’t pay any interest on your CORENA loan, and the quarterly loan repayments are set to be a little less than the savings on your operating costs averaged over a year.
This means you are never out of pocket and after your loan is fully repaid you reap the full financial benefit of having lower operating costs.
To learn more, check out how to apply for a loan, or register for one of our upcoming Online Q&A Information Sessions.