Knowledge is power: unlocking the potential for science and technology to enhance community resilience through knowledge exchange

Network paper no. 76, January 2014:

This paper seeks to address this challenge by analysing how formal scientific learning can support decision-making processes amongst people at risk from natural hazards and human-induced disasters and those trying to support them. Drawing on a series of case studies across regions, disciplines and sectors, it identifies generic learning and key characteristics regarding those forms of knowledge exchange which have resulted in tangible benefits for at-risk people.

It asserts that the number of people at risk from natural hazards and human-induced disasters is increasing. At the same time there is growing recognition that science and technology can potentially make a huge contribution to building people’s resilience to these risks. One of the major challenges for at-risk people and for the humanitarian actors seeking to assist them is how best to unlock this potential.