Many countries have developed policies to begin managing their disaster risk. However, most countries request and seek additional support to access the information, tools, and technology they need to implement these policies.
Japan is one of the global leaders in ICT and has applied this expertise to managing its disaster risks for decades. Using sensor networks and satellite imagery, among other tools, ICT-driven applications and data are the backbone of Japanese early warning systems and decision-making processes to address the risks posed by disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and flooding. ICT solutions also enhance coordination among institutions at various levels during disaster response, recovery, and reconstruction phases.
The World Bank Disaster Risk Management Hub’s ICT for DRM engagement is leveraging Japanese and global best practices to pilot a practical toolkit for practitioners to identify, prepare, appraise, and implement solutions for specific disaster types and DRM needs. The toolkit will showcase empirical case studies of ICT use for DRM in Japan, particularly from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.
