Disaster risk tolerance and the resilience paradox: Are we asking the right questions?

Ronda Nowak

doi:10.5055/jem.0877

Authors

Ronda Nowak, CEM, CFM, MSc, PhD https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6443-237X

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5055/jem.0877

Keywords:

resilience, disaster risk tolerance, social identity, risk perception

Abstract

Resilience is a complex concept. In the emergency management community, it is commonly used as a synonym for reduced risk. However, research demonstrates that reducing risk is not required for resilience. Research also finds that risk perception, widely viewed as the driver of increased resilience, is a weak predictor of risk reduction action. This article explores the concept of disaster risk tolerance (DRT). DRT is proposed as a better lens for understanding decisions made around risk reduction and as providing a better understanding of the role of resilience. The article also looks at the role of key factors, such as social identity and efficacy, in DRT. It makes recommendations for better risk communication based on these understandings.

Author Biography

Ronda Nowak, CEM, CFM, MSc, PhD

Senior Associate, Michael Baker International, Lansing, Michigan

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