International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics (IUGG)—Integrating Natural Hazard Science with Disaster Risk Reduction Policy

Abstract

Science-driven approaches to disaster risk reduction and management can help communities and governments become more resilient and reduce the human and economic impacts of disasters. The International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics (IUGG) promotes international scientific research and cooperation in natural hazards and disaster risks, and contributes to development of sound scientific knowledge on hazards, based on monitoring of physical phenomena and integrated observations, analysis, and modeling. IUGG makes scientific information available to people, and bridges advanced science with policymaking via international and intergovernmental programs. This report describes the union's major activities in the area of hazard and risk research and considers potential contribution of IUGG to the Sendai Partnerships. The contribution could include assessments of landslide hazards and risks; development of a scientific background to high-precision early warning systems for landslides; geophysical and geodetic monitoring of landslides; analysis and modeling of landslides and other rapid land movements; and relevant science education and capacity building.