| Session Details | |
| Section | IG - Interdisciplinary Geosciences |
| Session Title | Natural Hazard Research Across Asia-oceania: Observation, Measurement and Advances for Disaster Risk Reduction |
| Main Convener | Dr. James Terry (National University of Singapore, Singapore) |
| Co-convener(s) | Prof. James Goff (University of New South Wales, Australia) Dr. Tom Beer (Centre for Australian Weather and Climate Research, Australia) |
| Session Description | Justification It is difficult to think of a more pressing concern for our Asia-Oceania region, and indeed our planet, than the increasing toll which natural hazards take on both individuals and society. Recent disasters in Japan, Philippines, China, Thailand, Taiwan and the Pacific Islands all exemplify the problematic impacts caused by different types of hazard events. It is often the case that the interaction of human activities with existing challenges posed by environmental change exacerbates the risks associated with living in potentially hazardous areas. Objectives The goal of this session is for scientists, researchers and disaster risk reduction (DRR) practitioners to come together to present recent findings across a broad range of natural hazard types, including earthquakes, tsunami, landslides, volcanic eruptions, tropical cyclones (typhoons), river floods, storm surges, drought and wildfire. Papers are encouraged that present case study observations, develop new ideas or suggest innovative approaches for hazard studies. Relevant themes span diverse issues, including natural hazard origins, trigger mechanisms, processes responsible, spatial patterns, field measurement of recent events. The session aims also to explore the significance of past events on longer geological timescales. Studies that describe the evolution of theoretical approaches, modelling techniques and simulation will be valuable. Similarly, current research that addresses vulnerability assessment, the use of GIS tools, improvement in dating methods, or which discuss the development of culturally-appropriate adaptation strategies is especially welcome for submission. Implications of these findings will be explored through some discussion. ICSU Support It is anticipated that this event will be closely affiliated with current initiatives of the ICSU (International Council for Science) programme on natural hazards and risk reduction. The session is supported by the ICSU Regional Office for the Asia-Pacific. |