Impact of differences in disaster prevention: Recommendations for sustainable development between developed and developing countries

table of contents

Introduction
1. Factors behind the difference in disaster prevention between developed and developing countries

2. Recommendations for sustainable development of developing countries

summary

Introduction

The world faces the threat of natural disasters, the impact of which varies by country and region. There are large differences in disaster prevention between developed and developing countries, and this is a factor blocking the path to sustainable development. In this article, we will explore the factors behind this disparity in disaster prevention and discuss in detail what recommendations can be made to help developing countries achieve sustainable development.

1. Factors behind the difference in disaster prevention between developed and developing countries

1-1 Lack of resources and poverty

Lack of resources and poverty have a serious impact on developing countries, weakening their disaster prevention capacity and hindering their sustainable development. These issues, coupled with economic constraints and social challenges, are discussed in more detail below.

Regarding the lack of resources, developing countries are having difficulty allocating sufficient budget for disaster prevention facilities and education programs. Low gross domestic product ( GDP ) and lack of foreign aid have delayed the development of appropriate infrastructure and technology. Furthermore, compared to developed countries, developing countries have limited resources for acquiring science, technology and specialized knowledge, which can make it difficult to introduce the latest disaster prevention technology and carry out research and development activities.

Poverty is also a major factor, and people in low-income brackets tend to be more vulnerable to disasters. The poor have difficulty accessing adequate housing, food, and health care, which can make it difficult for them to evacuate and receive appropriate medical attention when disasters occur. Additionally, due to limited educational opportunities, people may not know the appropriate actions to take during a disaster, and may lack the knowledge and skills to minimize damage.

These issues of lack of resources and poverty are obstacles to improving disaster prevention capacity and sustainable development. Developing countries need increased domestic and international support and investment to address these challenges. International collaboration can provide funding and technology to overcome resource shortages and improve living conditions for people living in poverty. It is also important to strengthen support for people living in poverty through the dissemination of basic services such as education and health.

1-2 Social vulnerability

Social vulnerability refers to weakness and sensitivity to the impacts of natural disasters and social stressors in developing countries. Because economic, social, and cultural factors are intertwined, this term can refer to situations that highlight the weaknesses of society as a whole, not just economic poverty.

First, social vulnerability is related to the existence of vulnerable groups. Vulnerable groups in society, such as women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities, usually have difficulty receiving appropriate protection and support. When disasters occur, these people tend to be particularly affected, facing difficulties in evacuation and rebuilding their lives. Additionally, societal discrimination and gender inequality can further exacerbate the vulnerability of these vulnerable groups.

Secondly, lack of education and awareness is also a contributing factor to social vulnerability. In areas where education is not widespread, there is a lack of knowledge about appropriate actions and coping methods in the event of a disaster, making it difficult to minimize damage. In addition, due to a lack of social awareness, there is a lack of understanding of disaster risks and appropriate countermeasures, and disaster prevention measures may be put off.

Social vulnerability affects not only economic aspects but also the degree of community cohesion and organization. Strong communities and local organizations are better able to work together during disasters and are more likely to minimize damage. On the other hand, when there is social division and distrust, it becomes difficult to share information and provide support appropriately, potentially exacerbating the damage.

Finally, economic inequality is also a factor that increases social vulnerability. Economically weak groups have difficulty accessing adequate housing, health care, and education, reducing their ability to respond in times of disaster. On the other hand, economically stable groups will be able to utilize their resources to prepare for disasters and thus be able to reduce the damage.

Reducing social vulnerability requires a wide range of approaches, including appropriate support and protection for vulnerable groups, widespread education, strengthening community cohesion, and reducing economic disparities. This is expected to reduce the vulnerability of society as a whole and promote sustainable development.

1-3 Geographical conditions

Geography is an important factor in understanding how a particular region is affected by natural disasters and environmental change. Geographical conditions are formed by various factors such as topography, climate, geology, hydrology, and oceans. These factors intertwine and play a role in determining regional vulnerability and risk.

Terrain refers to topographical features such as mountain ranges, plains, and coastlines. Mountainous areas are prone to disasters caused by landslides and mountainside collapses, while plain areas are at increased risk of flooding and wind and flood damage. Areas near coastlines are threatened by coastal erosion and tsunamis. It is necessary to assess the risk of disasters due to terrain and take appropriate measures.

Climate refers to local weather conditions and seasonal changes. Climate change may increase the occurrence of extreme weather events (hurricanes, droughts, heavy rains, etc.). Appropriate disaster prevention measures and evacuation plans must be developed by analyzing weather data tailored to specific regions and predicting long-term weather patterns.

Geology refers to the nature of the strata and rocks within an area. In areas prone to geological phenomena such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, earthquake-resistant buildings and appropriate evacuation plans are essential. Through collecting geological data and evaluating the ground, we assess the risk of disaster occurrence and implement countermeasures.

Hydrology and oceanography refers to the regional water circulation and ocean conditions. Appropriate flood prevention and coastal protection measures are needed in areas where water-related risks occur, such as river flooding and coastal erosion due to sea level rise. We work to reduce risks through analysis of hydrological data, river flow management, and monitoring of marine data.

Understanding geographic conditions is essential for formulating regional disaster prevention plans and sustainable development strategies. This makes it possible to respond to specific risks within a region and implement effective countermeasures.

1-4 Lack of education and awareness

Lack of education and awareness is a major factor contributing to low disaster prevention capacity and difficulty in responding appropriately to disasters in developing countries. These factors are due to lack of knowledge and information, lack of appropriate educational opportunities, and lack of awareness of disaster risks.

First, a lack of education means a lack of knowledge about appropriate disaster response measures and actions within developing countries. School education and local education programs may not provide enough opportunities to teach basic information and behavioral principles for dealing with disaster risks. Therefore, it is difficult for residents to take appropriate actions when a disaster occurs, and the damage may spread.

Lack of awareness is also affecting disaster prevention capacity in developing countries. If residents are not aware of the risks of disasters and the severity of damage, appropriate measures and preparations may be neglected. Additionally, when a disaster occurs, it is difficult to take appropriate action, making it difficult to minimize damage.

Lack of education and awareness particularly affects vulnerable populations and local communities. People with limited educational opportunities have fewer opportunities to obtain appropriate information and may find it difficult to have appropriate knowledge about disasters. Additionally, unless the entire local community raises awareness of disaster risks, it will be difficult to promote coordinated countermeasures.

In order to resolve the lack of education and awareness, it is important to strengthen the education system and create a mechanism for sharing information. It is necessary to raise residents' awareness of disasters and acquire appropriate knowledge and the ability to take action through enhanced disaster-related educational programs, information dissemination through the media, and community awareness activities.

2. Recommendations for sustainable development of developing countries

2-1 Strengthening international cooperation

Strengthening international cooperation is an important element for improving disaster prevention capacity and sustainable development in developing countries. Developed and developing countries need to work together to bridge the gap in disaster prevention and protect the socially vulnerable by providing technology, funding, and sharing knowledge.

First, the provision of technology and knowledge is important as part of international cooperation. By providing disaster prevention technology and know-how to developing countries, developed countries can support appropriate measures against disasters such as earthquakes and floods. This will enable developing countries to develop more effective disaster prevention plans and strengthen their preparedness for disasters.

Next, financial aid plays an important role. Developing countries face economic constraints and may find it difficult to secure sufficient funds to develop disaster prevention facilities and implement educational programs. Financial support from developed countries and the establishment of a global fund can help developing countries secure funding to improve their disaster risk reduction capacity.

Strengthening international cooperation includes providing not only technology and finance, but also experts and human resources. Experts from developed countries support the formulation and implementation of disaster prevention plans in developing countries, helping to improve the capacity of local people and promote sustainable initiatives. Furthermore, by collaborating with different countries and organizations, we will be able to utilize diverse perspectives and experiences to build more effective disaster prevention strategies.

In strengthening international cooperation, it is important to emphasize the concept of partnership, not just aid. Developing countries can achieve more sustainable outcomes by properly communicating their needs and challenges and participating in the process of jointly developing strategies. It is also important for developed countries to respect the culture and situation of developing countries and to build cooperative relationships through two-way learning.

Overall, strengthening international cooperation is an essential tool for improving disaster risk reduction capacity and sustainable development in developing countries. By providing technology, finance, knowledge and expertise, we hope to pave the way for developing countries to address their own challenges and close the gap in disaster risk reduction.

2-2 Formulation of regional countermeasure plans

The formulation of regional response plans is an important approach in developing countries to focus on disaster risks and challenges in specific regions and formulate effective disaster prevention strategies. By formulating a plan based on the situation and characteristics of each region, appropriate measures can be taken.

First, in order to formulate a regional countermeasure plan, it is necessary to analyze geographical conditions in detail. It is important to understand what kind of natural disaster risks the area is exposed to (floods, earthquakes, typhoons, etc.) and to consider appropriate countermeasures. Based on geographical factors, we will consider appropriate evacuation routes, evacuation areas, earthquake resistance of buildings, etc.

Next, we analyze the social structure and characteristics of the region. Identify vulnerable and high-risk communities, considering demographic and socio-economic factors, and consider how to protect and support them. In particular, measures that focus on the special needs of women, children, and the elderly are important.

Cooperation and coordination with local residents and related organizations is essential for regional countermeasure plans. We formulate plans while incorporating local knowledge and experience through information gathering and opinion exchange within the region. It is important to encourage resident participation and build a system in which local communities take the lead in implementing countermeasures.

In addition, regional response plans must establish a system that can quickly respond in the event of a disaster. We will strengthen cooperation with related organizations and volunteer organizations in the region, introduce early warning systems, formulate appropriate evacuation plans, and strengthen medical and emergency response.

Finally, it is essential that regional response plans undergo continuous evaluation and improvement. By leveraging the lessons learned through the actual occurrence of disasters and the response process, we can revise and improve plans to achieve more effective countermeasures.

The development of regional preparedness plans will enable developing countries to develop disaster prevention strategies tailored to specific regions, promoting safety and sustainable development for people within the region.

summary

The gap in disaster prevention between developing and developed countries is a barrier to sustainable development. However, through efforts such as international cooperation, regional preparedness planning, and strengthening of education, developing countries can also improve their disaster preparedness capacity and build a sustainable future. Bridging the gap in disaster prevention is an important issue that requires cooperation and collaboration at the local and international levels.