Group items matching

in title, tags, annotations or url

Disaster response needs to address misbeliefs about health hazards, respect bereaved, and allow dignified laying to rest Dead body management (pdf) is a key element of disaster response: how corpses are dealt with can have a profound impact and long-lasting effect on the mental health of survivors and communities, say experts.

"The eruption of Iceland's Eyjafjallajökul volcano on 20 March 2010 demonstrated the weaknesses in Europe's diverse air traffic control network. As a massive ash cloud up to 8 kilometres high gradually extended across western Europe, forcing the cancellation of thousands of flights and stranding millions of passengers across the entire continent. Although European air controllers correctly prioritised passenger safety above all other factors, the scenario left many airline industry commentators and journalists frustrated with the European Union's apparent inability to swiftly and effectively act on changing meteorological and airline information. With few exceptions, the maintenance of separate airspace quadrants by each EU member, each with different processes, response mechanisms, as well as external pressures from airlines and politicians, all contributed to delayed and even contradictory responses in London, Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, and Oslo."

Today, there are more people at risk from natural hazards than ever before, with those in developing countries particularly at risk. Whilst achieving the correct response to such disasters is critical, so too is forecasting events and planning to minimise their impact. The field of Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) plays a critical role in this process, and this report seeks to draw on the excellent work already being done on DRR around the world. The project has been guided by a group of experts from a range of disciplines, and was informed by the best current research across the physical sciences, health, social sciences and economics. Its findings will help UK and international policy-makers navigate a challenging and uncertain future. Download the report or the executive summary below.  You can find all supporting evidence and documentation here.