Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), Sendai Framework & Risk Formula

Explanation

A natural hazard (e.g., a 7.8 magnitude earthquake) does not automatically become a disaster unless it encounters vulnerable human settlements lacking structural resilience. Disaster risk governance shifts focus from post-event reactive relief to proactive risk reduction. The United Nations Sendai Framework sets global targets to substantially reduce disaster mortality, affected population numbers, and economic losses by strengthening institutional governance, strictly enforcing building codes, and investing in resilient infrastructure.

Key points

• Hazard: Potential damaging physical event, natural phenomenon, or human activity (e.g., earthquake, landslide, flood).
• Vulnerability: Conditions determined by physical, social, economic, and environmental factors that increase susceptibility to hazard impacts.
• Capacity: Strengths, resources, and coping mechanisms available within a community to manage and reduce disaster risks.
• Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030) Four Priorities: 1. Understanding disaster risk, 2. Strengthening disaster risk governance, 3. Investing in DRR for resilience, 4. Enhancing disaster preparedness for effective response and to 'Build Back Better'.

Example

Code examples

/*
Disaster Risk Reduction Equation & Strategies:
Risk = (Hazard x Vulnerability) / Coping Capacity

To reduce Risk:
1. Hazards are largely natural and uncontrollable (cannot stop an earthquake)
2. Must MINIMIZE Vulnerability: Enforce building codes, avoid floodplains, poverty alleviation
3. Must MAXIMIZE Capacity: Early warning systems, trained community responders, stockpiled relief
*/

Exam questions

• [8 Marks] Explain the Disaster Risk Equation: Risk = (Hazard * Vulnerability) / Capacity with concrete examples from Nepal.
• [8 Marks] Outline the Four Priorities for Action established by the United Nations Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030).