Natural disasters: challenge paper
This paper proposes a series of concrete actions to be undertaken to reduce vulnerability to large-scale catastrophes through investments in four risk reduction measures that will increase resilience around the world. Three proposals are designed to better protect against damage and loss of life from earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes/cyclones respectively, and one is intended to protect communities more generally.
The first proposal includes the design and retrofitting of schools that can withstand earthquakes to reduce damage and the number of fatalities to children, teachers and other staff. The second proposal calls for investment in community flood walls and elevated homes to protect areas subject to floods. The third one address the strengthening the roofs of houses in countries with high exposure to hurricanes and cyclones to reduce losses from wind damage. Finally, the paper explores setting up effective early disaster warning systems to protect civilians from disasters.