Hazards-93: Concluding Plenary Session and Recommendations

Abstract

HAZARDS-93 brought together scientists and government officials from 20 countries for the purpose of engaging in a free exchange of knowledge, experience and ideas regarding the scientific and socio-economic aspects of mitigating losses from natural and man-made disasters. Over 175 papers presented a broad range of scientific disciplinary and disaster management based issues. The objective of the Concluding Plenary session was to capture the main conference themes and engage the conferees in discussion to identify action recommendations for the International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction and hazard management community. The Plenary Committee Members presented synoptic discussions of themes drawn from the conference. Discussions were focussed on the need to unify government programs, improve education and communication, and exchange information and data. Specific action recommendations were addressed to the International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction, International Society for the Prevention and Mitigation of Natural and ManMade Hazards, national governments, and scientific disciplines.