Question

Which of the following distinguishes structural mitigation from non-structural mitigation in disaster management?

• A. Structural mitigation reduces human vulnerability through awareness, while non-structural focuses on engineering solutions
• B. Structural mitigation involves physical infrastructure measures, while non-structural involves policies, planning and capacity building
• C. Structural mitigation deals only with earthquakes, while non-structural deals with floods and cyclones
• D. Both structural and non-structural mitigation involve only post-disaster reconstruction

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Structural mitigation involves physical infrastructure measures, while non-structural involves policies, planning and capacity building

The distinction between structural and non-structural mitigation is fundamental in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and Disaster Management.

• Structural Mitigation: This refers to any physical construction or engineered solution designed to reduce or avoid the possible impact of hazards. The focus is on modifying the physical environment to make it hazard-resistant.

  • Examples: Dams, seawalls, flood levees, earthquake-resistant building design, retrofitting old buildings, and constructing cyclone shelters.

• Non-structural Mitigation: This refers to measures that do not involve physical construction but use knowledge, practice, and agreements to reduce risk. The focus is on modifying human behavior and development through institutional and educational means.

  • Examples: Developing and enforcing land-use zoning laws (restricting building in high-risk areas), establishing and enforcing building codes, creating and disseminating early warning systems, conducting public awareness campaigns, and providing training and education.