Case studies

This collection of case studies from across the globe showcases practical, real-world examples of disaster risk management and disaster risk reduction in action.

The need to understand, adapt to, and mitigate disaster risks is greater than ever. These case studies are in-depth studies of a particular case in a real-world context. Each case study highlights unique challenges, innovative solutions, and impactful outcomes, providing insight into the strategies that communities, organizations, and governments have implemented to protect lives, livelihoods, and ecosystems.

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Case study
Portugal
Building a whole-of-government fire governance: the Portuguese Integrated Rural Fire Management System
This is a strategic plan that establishes an overarching framework for wildfire risk management in Portugal. The plan marks a structural change for rural prevention and suppression.
  • Climate-ADAPT
Case study
Korea, Rep of
Seoul, Korea helps avoid flood disasters
An elevated expressway was turned into the Cheonggyecheon stream. Riverside paths are closed in heavy rain and are social spaces at other times. Air quality improved and traffic reduced, but the project remains controversial.
  • Disasters avoided
Case study
Viet Nam
Managing flooding in Viet Nam
Good national to local government links exist, with good governance a key focus. Earth observations provide data and forecasting for people to take proactive action. Local community groups ensure key information and data are reviewed and acted upon.
  • Disasters avoided
Case study
Australia
Wildfire management in Australia
Wildfire disasters are being avoided in Australia because many groups of people are coordinating actions and working towards a common goal. Government, communities and businesses are investing in wildfire risk reduction.
  • Disasters avoided
Case study
Bangladesh
Managing flooding in Bangladesh
Village communities work with NGOs to build dwellings that can cope with flooding. Earth observations data is used for decision-making at national, state and local levels. Tested communications channels alert and warn people, who act on the advice.
  • Disasters avoided
Case study
Germany
Managing flooding in Hamburg's HafenCity
Good government regulation and urban planning lead to good urban resilience. Multiple tested communications channels alert and warn citizens, who act on the advice of authorities because of meaningful inclusion and respect.
  • Disasters avoided
Case study
Netherlands, the
Making space for the Dutch River Ijssel
Unexpected flooding incited a programme on Dutch rivers to rehabilitate rivers while making them safer from floods. The city of Deventer took its time and embarked on an extensive consultative and cooperative process.
  • Disasters avoided
Case study
Chile
Wildfire disasters avoided in Chile
Technical experts at Chile’s National Forestry Agency, have been documenting avoided loses due to wildfires since 2014-2015. Their goal is to use these analyses to facilitate the assessment of prevention and response actions and improve future policies.
  • Disasters avoided
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