ABSTRACT
In spite of extensive efforts to improve preparedness and response planning by governments, non-governmental organizations, stakeholder groups, and individuals over the last several decades, the impacts and costs of natural disasters continue to rise. The need for local jurisdictions to proactively plan for emergencies in ways that can anticipate, accommodate, and shape growth in response to increasing and evolving threats provides an unprecedented opportunity to adapt to prepare for future threats. As discussed in this section, future opportunities related to improvements in risk communication, community service-based planning, and disaster research can improve preparedness and response. In addition, the integration of lessons learned from a global perspective are critical to addressing emerging threats, such as global climate change and novel pandemics.
