Steven Goldfinch - Financing Disaster Resilience - The Asian Development Bank

Money is often said to make the world go round, and targeted investments in strategic projects can indeed wield significant influence, especially when directed towards mitigating disaster risks.

In this episode, Andrew and Josh chat with Steven Goldfinch, Senior Disaster Risk Specialist at the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Steve explains ADB’s Strategy 2030, a comprehensive plan aligning the bank’s efforts with the pressing needs of the Asia Pacific Region. This includes reducing poverty, adapting to climate change, promoting gender equality, and developing sustainable cities. Steve discusses how the ADB collaborates with nations to integrate disaster risk considerations into infrastructure projects and support low-carbon development. He also highlights ADB’s role in providing both pre- and post-disaster financial assistance.

Throughout the conversation, Steve shares insights into how ADB strategically prioritises projects, balancing developmental needs with climate action – a particular challenge in one of the world’s most disaster-prone regions. The discussion also covers gender considerations in disaster management, challenges of climate-induced displacement, and tools for assessing long-term climate risks.

In his role, Steve Goldfinch works across the bank, supporting resilient development and recovery. Prior to joining the ADB in 2018, he worked for over a decade with the United Nations in New York, Dhaka and Kampala. Originally from Australia, he holds a master’s degree in peace and conflict studies from the University of Sydney and a bachelor’s degree in Asian studies and political science.

Join Andrew and Josh as they unlock the bank vault and understand how the ADB are working to reduce the impact of disasters in the Asia Pacific.