The Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra (PUCMM) became the epicenter of science and research during the 2023 Research Week, highlighting researchers’ efforts and exploring contributions to the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Under the slogan “Acting in the present with an eye on the future”, the university reaffirmed its commitment to building a sustainable tomorrow.
The event, which started on Monday, October 23, 2023, featured various presentations focusing on different approaches related to one or more Sustainable Development Goals. Throughout the research week, over 50 activities took place, including lectures, presentations, exhibitions, panels, and workshops. The AdaptCC_DR team had an outstanding participation, represented by Orisell Medina, Virginia Flores, and Víctor Bohórquez, with the Conference on the Use of Digital Information Technology for Adapting to the Effects of Climate Change and Increasing Resilience in Touristic Coastal Areas from Dominican Republic.
The team addressed the core ideas of the project, explaining how it focuses on Bayahibe area, which is in the eastern region of the Dominican Republic, tackling challenges stemming from climate change. During the presentation, team members elaborated on how these particularly vulnerable areas are impacted by the intensity of hurricane seasons, rising sea levels, erosion, and constant threats to biodiversity. Additionally, they discussed how the tourism-based economy in this area is compromised, affecting both human life and sustainable development.
The conference, held both in person and virtually via Zoom on October 27, provided the AdaptCC_DR team with an opportunity to share the key objectives and challenges of their project. Essential data collection for addressing climate-related issues in coastal areas was also an important focus of their presentation.
As an integral part of the research week, Goals 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and 13 (Climate Action) from the SDG agenda were highlighted as the fundamental pillars that AdaptCC_DR seeks to strengthen with its project. By addressing these goals, the team demonstrates a strong commitment to creating practical and sustainable solutions to confront the challenges of climate change in coastal communities.
The participation of the AdaptCC_DR team in the PUCMM Research Week 2023 not only underscores the importance of scientific research but also emphasizes how technology and digital information can be powerful allies in the fight against the effects of climate change. This marks a significant step toward a more sustainable future, where science and action intertwine to build a better tomorrow.