A@A Knowledge Network: How can digital technologies contribute to effective and just adaptation in mountains?

Key information

Date: 30 June 2026

Time: 1-2pm BST

Via Microsoft Teams

Background

As the impacts of climate change intensify, so too is the growth of digital technologies and tools. The result has been a proliferation of ‘smart adaptation’ interventions (Gioli and Bettini, 2026) spanning early warning systems, mapping and modelling ecosystems, online training and capacity development, e-commerce and more (Dittmer et al., 2022). In mountainous regions this is no different. The TENDHIS web application has been introduced in the Peruvian Andes to strengthen the formulation and implementation of projects for water resource management. Farmers in the Himalayas are using an SMS service for information on market prices, weather, and agricultural advisory services for the sustainable production of large cardamom. And in Djibouti, radar water sensors were installed to help provide flood information to local communities.

However, it is crucial that digital tools and technologies contribute to both effective and just adaptation. The high altitudes, rugged terrains, and remote locations of mountainous regions can pose barriers to the implementation of digital tools and technologies, with mountain communities disproportionately experiencing lower access to mobile networks and digital infrastructures (Budimir et al., 2022). Those without access or digital skills and literacy may be unable to harness digital adaptation solutions and the benefits they provide, resulting in a ‘digital divide’ that exacerbates inequalities (Budimir et al., 2022). Moreover, despite Indigenous communities exploring ethical uses of digital technologies (Martinescu, 2023), it is essential digitalisation works with, and not against, traditional knowledge practices.

In this A@A Knowledge Network learning event, expert panellists will share reflections on the role of digital tools and technologies in adaptation and the opportunities and challenges they present for mountain regions and beyond. This will be followed by an interactive Q&A session with audience participants.

Speakers

Coming soon!

What is the A@A Knowledge Network?

The Adaptation at Altitude programme, funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), seeks to support mountain communities and those working with them by improving the knowledge of appropriate climate change adaptation strategies in the mountains, and transferring that knowledge through science–policy platforms to inform decision-making in national, regional and global policy processes.

The Adaptation at Altitude (A@A) Knowledge Network is a global community through which we can share experiences and knowledge on adaptation in the mountains and collaborate to accelerate the uptake of innovative solutions. Want to keep informed about our upcoming meetings and events? Find more information and details on how to get involved on our A@A Knowledge Network homepage.