New book on Critical Disaster Studies reveals lessons to prepare for turbulent times

A Decade of Disaster Experiences in Ōtautahi Christchurch: Critical Disaster Studies Perspectives reveals important lessons from real-world experiences in living through earthquakes, floods, the COVID-19 pandemic, a terrorist attack, climate change impacts, and more.

The book is edited by Dr Shinya Uekusa from the University of Canterbury, Associate Professor Steve Matthewman from the University of Auckland, and Professor Bruce Glavovic from Massey’s School of People, Environment and Planning. It includes contributions by leading local and international researchers.

Professor Glavovic says a CDS perspective focuses on the underlying drivers and root causes of vulnerability and risk that predispose people to harm. “It goes beyond the traditional focus on the physical peril and reliance on risk quantification and policy prescriptions. It uncovers the everyday reality of disasters for those most susceptible to harm. Such a perspective is imperative for research, policy, and operational practice.”

The book shares insights from Māori and migrant communities’ response and recovery efforts, and from individual, community, private sector, and government efforts. “The book draws lessons for the future – for planning, governance, and democracy in the city and beyond,” Professor Glavovic adds.

Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel says this is an incredibly significant book about Ōtautahi Christchurch’s disaster experience. “It highlights the importance of understanding the lessons that are offered from things that went well and also things that didn’t go well. We look back not to blame, but to understand and to ensure the lessons are embedded into future practice so we don’t make the same mistakes again and again.”

A companion article on The Conversation elaborates on some key insights from the book.

The book is available to purchase here.