VDM Gencer, E: Natural Disasters, Vulnerability, andSustainable

Natural disasters are increasingly affecting millions of people throughout the world. Due to the concentration of substandard infrastructure and housing, material assets, and inherent socio-economic inequalities, large urban areas are particularly vulnerable from the effects of natural disasters which obstruct the sustainable development of these settlements. This book examines the interplay between natural disasters, vulnerability, and sustainable development. The book provides a quantitative study on the interplay between sustainable development and natural disasters in twenty countries during a period from 1960 to 2004. In addition, the book executes a qualitative study on the interplay between urban development, vulnerability, and risk management in the earthquake prone city of Istanbul. By examining different aspects of this interplay at different scales of development, this book stresses the importance of specific public policies, which can provide the way urban areas can reduce disaster risks and create sustainable communities. This book is intended for anyone who is interested in the subject of natural disasters, sustainable development, and the urban systems.