18 July 2013: Hosting an International Conference on Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation for Food and Environmental Security, the Coconut Research Institute invited representatives from institutions from across South Asia to share current research for planning and policy making in the context of preparing for climate change impacts.

The meeting, which took place from 30-31 July 2013, in Colombo, Sri Lanka, focused on the current status of knowledge on the magnitude of climate change in the Asian region, impacts of climate change on water resources and major food production systems, and mitigation options. While relevant at the regional level, many of the presentations focused on particular challenges and policy options in Sri Lanka. The meeting concluded with the adoption of conclusions on opportunities for capacity building, funding, networking and regional collaboration on research.

The meeting was organized by the Coconut Research Institute, in partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Renewable Energy, and the Regional Office of the World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF). It included representatives from the World Bank, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO), the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) and ICRAF. IWMI and ICRAF are members of the Consultative Group on International Agriculture Research (CGIAR). [Conference Website] [Sri Lankan Government Press Release]