Global experiences in flood management – perspectives through ICFM Webinar Series

Abstract

It is a major issue of concern for international organizations and governmental departments in supporting global climate governance. As floods account for 44 % of all natural disasters in recent 20 years, it is of great significance to propose countermeasures by reviewing global extreme flood events in recent years. The International Conferences on Flood Management (ICFM) and Flash Flood Program (FFP), have hosted a series of international academic webinars since 2020. Drawing upon the outcomes of the webinars and reviewing the latest flood mitigation strategies of major countries advanced in water management, this paper focuses on the global experience in response to watershed flood, flash flood, urban flood, extreme flood under climate change, and comprehensive mitigation measures. It can be learned that flood control strategies need combine both structural and non-structural measures, and draw upon nature-based solutions that integrate green, blue and gray spaces within basins or cities through multi-purpose and targeted programs, with a view to achieving flood management goals and promoting social, economic and environmental sustainability in a holistic way.