Averting disaster: International innovation environment, February 2012
This issue of International Innovation highlights the latest environmental research efforts, specifically detailing work into the prediction, management and prevention of natural disasters. Opening the report, Stefano Tinti, President of the European Geosciences Union’s Natural Hazards Division, outlines their efforts to protect Europe from naturally occurring disasters. Following on from that interview, Francesco Gaetani, GEO Secretariat expert for Disasters, offers an insight into his work on infrastructure to support anticipation of and reaction to extreme events.
The issue also presents an enlightening discussion with Dr Jane E Rovins, Executive Director of the IRDR Programme, who explains how improving knowledge-management strategies can transform disaster risk analysis, and help communities to plan for, and adapt to, the impacts of hazards. Further highlights of this issue include a look at the work of the Institute of European Environmental Policy, who are responsible for ensuring environmental considerations are upheld in all areas of European policy. EC's Director-General for Energy Philip Lowe discusses their role within the Commission and how they are tackling these colossal challenges.