The need for increased application of innovation and technology for disaster risk reduction (DRR) has never been greater in order to foster new development and implementation of more effective evidence-based approaches. The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction encourages better access and support for innovation and technology as well as increased investment in DRR to develop new innovations that are both cost-effective and beneficial when applied in all disaster management phases.
30 Innovations for DRR includes the innovative products and approaches considered to be extremely effective and those that have already contributed to reducing disaster risks. They were identified in discussions between experts primarily from Keio University, University of Tokyo, United Nations University, CWS Japan, and IRIDeS of Tohoku University. This project was led and supported by the Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Multi-Hazards Program.
Parallel to the publication, a survey was conducted to determine the innovations for DRR considered to be the most effective among academia, NGOs, international organizations, governments, and the private sector. Of special interest to many, of the ten innovations selected most frequently, five are products and six are approaches (two received the same score). These results show that products and approaches are equally recognized as innovations, and that they both contribute to improving existing and traditional DRR efforts for tackling new challenges. We must not forget when DRR efforts that combine both products and approaches are implemented, the most effective and efficient DRR strategies and efforts will be created.
Explore further
