Grand Challenges for Disaster Reduction
Abstract
Despite significant progress in the application of science and technology to disaster reduction, communities are still challenged by disaster preparation, response, and recovery. We have reduced the number of lives lost each year to natural disasters, but the costs of major disasters continue to rise. A primary focus on response and recovery is an impractical and inefficient strategy for dealing with these ongoing threats. Instead, communities must break the cycle of destruction and recovery by enhancing their disaster resilience. The Subcommittee on Disaster Reduction identified four key characteristics of disaster-resilient communities: * Relevant hazards are recognized and understood. * Communities at risk know when a hazard event is imminent. * Individuals at risk are safe from hazards in their homes and places of work. * Disaster-resilient communities experience minimum disruption to life and economy after a hazard event has passed. High-priority science and technology investments, coupled with sound decision-making at all levels, will dramatically enhance community resilience and thus reduce vulnerability. In support of this goal, six Grand Challenges in this report provide a framework for sustained Federal investment in science and technology related to disaster reduction.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA462528
Entities
Organizations
- Executive Office of the President of the United States