Urban Hazard Mitigation: Creating Resilient Cities

David R. Godschalk
2003 Natural Hazards Review  
Cities are complex and interdependent systems, extremely vulnerable to threats from both natural hazards and terrorism. This paper proposes a comprehensive strategy of urban hazard mitigation aimed at the creation of resilient cities, able to withstand both types of threats. The paper reviews hazard mitigation practice, defines a resilient city, considers the relationship between resilience and terrorism, and discusses why resilience is important and how to apply its principles to physical and
more » ... ocial elements of cities. Contending that current hazard mitigation policy, practice, and knowledge fail to deal with the unique aspects of cities under stress, the paper recommends a major resilient cities initiative, including expanded urban systems research, education and training, and increased collaboration among professional groups involved in city building and hazard mitigation.
doi:10.1061/(asce)1527-6988(2003)4:3(136) fatcat:w4rchrb4hrgg3pgzsduhnvjdpq