Science and Technology for Natural Disaster Reduction

Abstract

During the 1990s, the United Nations sponsored the International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction (IDNDR) with the objective of reducing losses caused by natural hazards. Strategies for achieving that end include locating structures and people out of harm's way, building structures to withstand stresses imposed by hazards, and warning of impending hazardous conditions, all of which must be based on sound scientific knowledge and technical methods. Implementation of these strategies, however, has been difficult because often the public does not appreciate the threat posed by hazards or understand the loss-prevention approaches. Nevertheless, the need for prevention and mitigation measures has gained in recognition, and many activities will continue or begin beyond the Decade. The IDNDR Scientific and Technical Committee identified five challenges to guide future programs: (1) Integrate natural disaster management with overall planning; (2) anticipate megadisasters due to population concentrations; (3) reduce environmental and resource vulnerability; (4) improve disaster prevention capabilities of developing countries; and (5) assure effective coordination and implementation.