TICTeC 2024: Fostering inclusive approaches to technological innovations for climate action

Pyrou Chung (East West Management Institute) at mySociety's The Impacts of Civic Technology Conference (TICTeC) on 12 June 2024 in London, and online.
Leaders at COP28 emphasized the pivotal role of nature-based solutions (NbS) in addressing the climate crisis, highlighting its significance in establishing resilient food systems & preserving oceans. However, these discussions often neglect examinations of institutional power dynamics embedded in these agendas, driving towards NbS without true free-prior & informed consent agreements with communities.
The integration of technological innovation into these conversations poses a genuine risk of NbS perpetuating exploitative practices if not thoughtfully implemented. While technological solutions are hailed as a panacea in the pursuit of NbS, these will play out in the context of digital divides, driving the concentration of power in the hands of a few actors. By unpacking the dynamics at play, we can urge for a nuanced understanding of technology’s potential within the context of preserving and restoring our natural environment. The discussion presents a set of recommendations for policymakers, advocating for a cautious approach in investing in these solutions, informed by rights, responsibility and reciprocity.
TICTeC 2024 bought together 180+ people from 35 different countries.
It was the seventh in an annual series of conferences from mySociety, focusing on what is needed to make civic tech on a global scale more successful and impactful, to tackle global problems around democracy and climate change.
To find out more about TICTeC please visit: tictec.mysociet...