Urbanisation, coupled with changes in climate, is increasing the risk of disaster to Asian communities. The CMAS project is conceptualized over past several months of intensive discussion among different universities, who are the member of APRU (Association of Pacific Rim Universities). Acknowledging the importance of water environment to cities and communities in the context of climate change, the organizing committee of the APRU World Institute (AWI) has decided to initiate research on climate change, water issues, urban governance and community resilience. The project adopts a multi-disciplinary and policy oriented approach, where the interactions of academicians and professionals (in local governments) are highly encouraged.

In this recent meeting hosted by Melbourne University, the main thematic focus is Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM), which includes consideration of extreme events (both drought and flooding), and the expected increased variability in water systems due to climate change impacts. In addition, a one-day engagement forum on climate and water challenges in the host case study city (Melbourne) will also be organised. This will bring together in dialogue local researchers, relevant decision makers from government and private sector agencies and companies dealing with water issues, as well as the members of the CMAS research teams, from Australia and around the region.

Sponsored by:
Australian National University
Chulalongkorn University
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO)
Kyoto University
National Hydraulic Research Institute
National University of Singapore
University of California, San Diego
University of Indonesia
University of Malaya
University of Melbourne
UNESCAP
United Nations University
World Bank