This project aims to improve disaster preparedness in Sri Lanka’s coastal communities, where flooding, tsunamis and power outages frequently disrupt emergency communications, health services and early warning systems. These interruptions increase the risks faced by vulnerable communities by limiting access to timely information and reducing the ability of health facilities and emergency responders to operate during disasters. The project’s solution is to integrate decentralized solar-powered backup communication systems into community disaster preparedness. Renewable energy is used to keep early warning and communication networks operational during power outages, while trained youth volunteers manage digital warning systems, coordinate evacuation communications and support local health preparedness planning. Nature-based measures, including mangrove restoration, complement these efforts by strengthening coastal resilience.

In less than a year and with 2-5 members, the initiative has already trained 100 youth volunteers, reached more than 5,000 residents through early warning channels and supported 500 households in improving their disaster preparedness. Major costs include solar backup equipment, digital communication infrastructure, volunteer training, community workshops and field coordination. The project is currently supported through contributions from volunteers, local partnerships and small community funding, but additional investment is needed to scale implementation and secure long-term financial sustainability. Key challenges include limited funding for solar infrastructure, the need for continued technical training, and the lack of coordination between energy and disaster management policies. The long-term goal is to expand the model to other high-risk coastal areas and Small Island Developing States, establish formal partnerships with public authorities, and demonstrate how decentralized renewable energy can strengthen disaster resilience, public health and climate adaptation.