From knowledge to action: Bridging gaps in disaster risk reduction

A large amount of studies have been produced on disaster-related issues over the last century of research, yet there continues to be gaps in translating knowledge into action. This paper discusses the battlefield of knowledge and action for disaster risk reduction (DRR), outlining the need for a more integrative process consisting of bottom-up and top-down actions, local and scientific knowledge, and a vast array of stakeholders. The challenges in addressing the need for an integrated process are outlined alongside a potential road map for bridging gaps in DRR. The final section addresses issues to be overcome in order to implement the aforementioned road map. Future ways to bridge gaps in DRR between bottom-up and top-down actions, and local and scientific knowledge are proposed.