Living with Risk. A global review of disaster reduction initiatives

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Living with Risk: A global review of disaster reduction initiatives
challenges
Future challenges and priorities
From the issues described in this chapter, the
main areas for action that stand out are:
• Exploration of the links between environmental
degradation and changing hazard
occurrence and vulnerability patterns.
• Identification and description of environmental
knowledge and tools that can be
applied to reduce vulnerability to risk.
• Economic valuation of environmental
actions.
The identified knowledge and tools could then
undergo modification and testing to be well
adapted to case specific situations. Disaster and
environment practitioners could apply the tools
which would result in a greater sense of ownership
and commitment. Capacities for use and
regular improvement of these tools would also
be developed. To achieve this objective, development
of a common language and exchange
of practices and experience among experts in
disaster risk management, environmental management,
sustainable development and economics
should be encouraged. In this regard,
innovative forms of communication should be
explored.
Some adjustments in policy frameworks to
reflect this new approach to disaster reduction
might be necessary. As would be close
collaboration with institutions working on
climate change adaptation, biodiversity conservation,
land degradation, wetlands management,
sustainable development and
poverty alleviation. Finally, integrating risk
management into environmental policy and
vice-versa will require full community participation.
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