Disaster Risk Reduction at Farm Level

Disaster Risk Reduction at Farm Level Synopsis

This report presents the findings of a multi-year FAO study undertaken on over 900 farms in ten different countries that measured, using field data, benefits gained through the use of innovative farming practices designed to boost the resilience of farmers facing natural disasters. It makes the case that disaster risk reduction (DDR) measures in agriculture hold vast potential for improving damage prevention and impact mitigation at the local level, with immediate and palpable benefits to the lives of billions of people.

Moreover, the study distinguishes between benefits of DRR practices in hazardous versus non-hazardous situations. This allows for the identification of "no-regret" options, where implementation makes good economic sense even when natural hazards are not at play. Considering the high uncertainty of future climate change and the occurrence of natural hazards, there is a compelling case for identifying no-regret options for disaster risk reduction on farms.

The study ultimately contributes to the internationally agreed priority of enhancing the resilience of the planet's most vulnerable communities to natural hazard-related disasters, and specifically to Priority 3 of the Sendai Framework. It creates a sound evidence base for stepping up investment in disaster risk reduction in the agriculture sector, as opposed to exclusively investing in disaster response, highlighting the critical importance of local action for achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.