1. Disaster Recovery and Build Back Better

Welcome to the course disaster recovery and build back better. Today, we are going to discuss about some of the summary of the discussions which happened in the GADRI, Global Alliance of Disaster Research Institutes, the fourth summit which just recently happened in Kyoto University in Japan.

This chunk serves as an introduction to the concepts of disaster recovery and building back better. The speaker indicates that this discussion is based on a recent summit held by the Global Alliance of Disaster Research Institutes (GADRI), which focused on various themes related to disaster recovery. The mention of Kyoto University situates the discussion in a global context, highlighting the collaborative efforts of researchers in addressing disaster situations.

Imagine a team of experts from various countries gathering at a conference to come up with solutions for recovering from natural disasters, just like doctors from around the world might meet to discuss new treatments and share ideas at a medical convention.

In fact, when we talk about the GADRI, first of all this has become a platform for all the academic institutes who are doing the research and disaster recovery and disaster related research. So, it is a platform for all these institutes to come together and share the knowledge and inform the policy practice and also the theory.

GADRI acts as a collaborative platform that connects academic institutions engaged in disaster research. It provides a venue for sharing knowledge and insights, which can influence policy-making and theoretical frameworks in disaster management. This collaborative environment fosters the exchange of ideas and encourages proactive approaches to disaster risks.

Think of GADRI as a global online forum where scientists share their research findings on climate change and disaster preparedness, similar to how chefs exchange recipes and cooking tips to improve their culinary skills.

The purpose and objectives of this session were to identify how research on social construction of risks can be used for effective DRR. To consider how the understanding of risk can be better circulated and discussed among stakeholders to reach a shared recognition of the social dimension of risk.

This chunk outlines the key objectives of the summit session. The focus is on understanding the social aspects of risk and how this understanding can inform disaster risk reduction (DRR) efforts. It aims to enhance discussions about risks among stakeholders and promote mutual recognition of the social dimensions associated with disaster risks, which can lead to better strategies for managing them.

Imagine a neighborhood coming together to address flood risks, discussing local experiences with flooding, and using personal stories to educate each other about risk. This collective understanding can lead to improvements in community preparedness.

So we also got key questions that are to be addressed. To what extent are hazards, risks, and disasters within society currently well known? How can the social construction of risks be effective for DRR?

This segment emphasizes the critical questions posed during the summit discussions. These questions aim to assess the current societal awareness of risks and the effectiveness of understanding the social constructions of these risks for disaster risk reduction. Delving into these inquiries helps to explore how societies perceive threats and hazards and how this knowledge could be leveraged in planning and response strategies.

Consider a community that has experienced multiple hurricanes. By discussing what they know about these storms—like their frequency and intensity—they can develop better flood defenses, much like a sports team studies past games to improve their tactics for future matches.

Disaster is a social construct because there has been an unequal distribution of resources, skills, abilities.

This chunk points out that disasters are not just natural occurrences but are significantly influenced by the social context, including the availability and distribution of resources and capabilities among communities. Vulnerability to disasters often stems from social inequalities, where individuals in resource-poor environments face greater risks. Understanding this helps to highlight the social underpinnings of disaster response and recovery.

Think of two different towns hit by the same earthquake: one is wealthy and can invest in building codes, disaster response plans, and recovery resources, while the other is not. The outcome after the disaster will differ greatly, showcasing how social constructs shape disaster impacts.

When we talk about knowledge, how local knowledge understand risk because the scientific knowledge understands in a different way.

This chunk emphasizes the importance of integrating local knowledge with scientific understanding of disaster risks. Local experiences and practices provide valuable insights into risks that may not be captured by conventional scientific methods. Recognizing and harnessing this local wisdom can enhance the effectiveness of disaster risk management efforts.

Picture a local fisherman who knows the waters well and can predict the changes in weather based on signs that outsiders might overlook. His knowledge helps ensure the safety of those who fish, just as local knowledge can enhance disaster preparedness in communities.

There is very less documented and transferred information regarding what is acceptable and unacceptable risks because what is acceptable to me may not be acceptable to the other person...

This section highlights the variability in how different cultures and individuals perceive risk. What one person considers an acceptable level of risk may be viewed as unacceptable by another due to differing backgrounds and experiences. This diversity complicates efforts to create universal standards for risk management and necessitates culturally-sensitive approaches.

For example, consider how some individuals might feel comfortable driving fast on a highway, while others may find that level of speed terrifying. Each perspective reflects personal experiences, and similarly, communities may have varied comfort levels concerning potential hazards.

Introducing DRR as a culture at school education, so in order to bring the DRR into our society, it cannot just happen in only one day...

This chunk discusses the importance of integrating disaster risk reduction (DRR) concepts into the educational system. By teaching students about disaster preparedness from an early age, society can foster a culture of awareness and proactive risk management that endures over time. Education plays a crucial role in shaping future generations' approach to disasters.

Think of how health classes teach children about hygiene practices daily. Just as routine education in health helps develop good habits, teaching DRR in schools can prepare students to act responsibly and safely during emergencies.

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