AWE+ A DRI Global Initiative

AWE+ an Adaptable World Environment

For over six decades, DRI has tirelessly tackled scientific challenges related to global climate. DRI is unwavering in its commitment to continue this intensive research. But fortifying communities against future devastation requires more than science. It demands the collective resolve of community representatives such as researchers and scientists, emergency and wildfire management professionals, elected officials and other government policymakers and agency staff, industry leaders including utility and insurance specialists, environmentalists, and residents – all working together on measures to advance resilience and adaptability. This is where AWE+ comes into play.

AWE+ is a DRI global initiative formed in 2024. Reflecting the four classical elements of nature – air, water, earth, and fire – AWE+ advances community resilience and adaptability in the face of increasing, inevitable catastrophes that affect human lives and environmental ecosystems. It addresses tough challenges by promoting actionable solutions through interdisciplinary collaboration.

A panel of 4 speakers sits on chairs in front of a DRI banner holding microphones.

Preparing Communities for the Future of Wildfire

Experts came together for the second AWE+ conference to tackle one of the West’s biggest challenges and discuss ways to strengthen our communities against the growing threat of wildfires. 

AWE+ 2024 Wildfire Recovery and Resilience

Working Across Silos to Drive Solutions: In our inaugural event, AWE+ focused on human adaptation to wildfires and their often-devastating impacts.

Wildfire in a forest of pine trees with billowing smoke rising into the sky.

What We Know About Wildfire Risk and Prevention