Public review of the Words into Action: The Science–Policy–Society ecosystem for disaster risk reduction

The Science–Policy–Society Ecosystem for Disaster Risk Reduction

The Words into Action guide on The Science–Policy–Society ecosystem for disaster risk reduction provides a comprehensive approach to strengthening the interface between science, policy, and society for disaster risk reduction (DRR). It emphasizes the importance of collaboration across disciplines and sectors to address the increasing risks posed by natural and human-made hazards.

The guide is designed to support practitioners, policymakers, and scientists in fostering effective communication, promoting knowledge sharing, and improving disaster preparedness and resilience. By bridging gaps between scientific knowledge, policy decision-making, and societal engagement, the guide aims to enhance the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030. It serves as a practical tool, offering recommendations, best practices, and case studies to navigate the complexities of the science-policy-society ecosystem.

Chapter 1: Science-Policy-Society Ecosystem for DRR

• This chapter introduces the ecosystem framework, emphasizing the need for interconnected relationships between scientists, policymakers, and the broader society. It underscores the importance of mutual understanding and trust in facilitating knowledge exchange and decision-making processes, setting the stage for more inclusive and informed DRR strategies.

Chapter 2: Effective Risk Communication

• This chapter focuses on risk communication as a critical component of the science-policy-society interface. It discusses how to frame risk information to align with public understanding, overcome cognitive biases, and tailor messages to various stakeholders. Practical examples of community engagement and communication strategies that enhance disaster preparedness are provided.

Chapter 3: Strengthening Science-Policy Interaction

• Here, the guide delves into the mechanisms that promote stronger collaboration between scientific communities and policy-makers. It highlights various institutional structures and processes that enable the integration of scientific evidence into policy decisions, including the role of knowledge platforms like the Disaster Risk Management Knowledge Centre (DRMKC).

Chapter 4: Case Studies

• This chapter presents international case studies that illustrate the application of the science-policy-society ecosystem concept. These examples cover a wide range of topics, from community-based disaster management in South Africa to tsunami warning systems in Indonesia. Each case study provides valuable insights into overcoming challenges and implementing innovative solutions within different cultural and institutional contexts.

As an effort from the international disaster risk reduction (DRR) Community and brokered by UNDRR, this official public consultation version is a product of a long and detailed process of drafting, consultation, and review. This document will be available for public review until 6 November 2024 and has the purpose to ensure we haven’t overlooked aspects that are important to consider.

SHARE YOUR COMMENTS THROUGH THE SURVEY

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators in the Article

1. SDGs Addressed or Connected to the Issues Highlighted in the Article

• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 13: Climate Action
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

The article discusses the importance of disaster risk reduction (DRR) and the interface between science, policy, and society in addressing natural and human-made hazards. This aligns with SDG 11, which aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. Additionally, SDG 13, which focuses on climate action, is relevant as climate change contributes to the increasing risks of disasters. SDG 17, which emphasizes partnerships for the goals, is also connected as collaboration across disciplines and sectors is crucial for effective disaster risk reduction.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Based on the Article’s Content

• SDG 11.5: By 2030, significantly reduce the number of deaths and the number of people affected and substantially decrease the direct economic losses relative to global gross domestic product caused by disasters, including water-related disasters, with a focus on protecting the poor and people in vulnerable situations.
• SDG 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.
• SDG 17.16: Enhance the global partnership for sustainable development, complemented by multi-stakeholder partnerships that mobilize and share knowledge, expertise, technology, and financial resources, to support the achievement of the sustainable development goals in all countries, in particular developing countries.

The article emphasizes the need to reduce the number of deaths, people affected, and economic losses caused by disasters. This aligns with SDG 11.5, which focuses on disaster risk reduction. Additionally, the article highlights the importance of strengthening resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters, which corresponds to SDG 13.1. Lastly, the article promotes collaboration and partnerships between different stakeholders, which is in line with SDG 17.16.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article to Measure Progress towards the Identified Targets

• Number of deaths caused by disasters
• Number of people affected by disasters
• Direct economic losses caused by disasters relative to global gross domestic product
• Resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters
• Existence of multi-stakeholder partnerships for sustainable development

The article mentions the need to reduce the number of deaths and people affected by disasters, indicating that these are important indicators to measure progress towards SDG 11.5. The article also refers to direct economic losses caused by disasters relative to global gross domestic product, which can be used as an indicator for the same target. Additionally, the article highlights the importance of strengthening resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters, which can be measured to track progress towards SDG 13.1. Lastly, the existence of multi-stakeholder partnerships for sustainable development is mentioned, indicating the importance of this indicator for SDG 17.16.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: undrr.org