We must proactively deal with natural disasters that devastate life of millions

A number of natural disasters have recently occurred around the globe. Heavy snow in Europe and the USA, and drought and flooding in China have caused significant strife and even death to those living in the affected areas. The impact of global warming and climate change has not left Korea untouched. In 2009, the mountain villages in the Gangwon Province had to bring in drinking water from other regions due to a severe drought. Flash floods are growing in number and the frequency of localized heavy downpours of 100mm or more is 1.4 times greater than it was in the ’70s and ’80s. In a time when our global climate seems to be drastically changing, it would be neglecting the responsibility of our time if we do not find a solution today.