Integration of the Science of High Probability Unpredictable Hazards into Disaster Reduction Programmes: Lessons from West Sumatra

The University of Ulster, with Concern Worldwide and the British Geological Survey undertook a one year collaborative research project on the humanitarian community in the tsunami-threatened city of Padang, West Sumatra, and of the ways in which science is being used to inform their DRR (Disaster Risk Reduction) activities. This report describes the project, which focused on the foremost DRR NGO for earthquake and tsunami hazard in Padang, KOGAMI,and its relationships with other actors engaged in DRR in the city. From this case study more generic lessons were drawn on how science is used by the humanitarian sector and how the scientific and humanitarian communities can better interact with each other.