Impact of Ecosystem Based Disaster Risk Reduction (Eco-DRR) on Disaster Frequency in Coastal Communities

Abstract

This article investigates how Eco-DRR strategies can contribute to the resilience of coastal communities to natural disasters. Cantering on mangrove restoration, coral reef protection and wetland conservation, it examines how such ecosystem-based approaches enable disaster risk reduction, environmental health and sustainable local livelihoods. The research applies a hybrid methodological approach, combining qualitative data from interviews and focus groups with quantitative data from surveys and with environmental measurements. The results show that in all bio-physical variables, such as coastal erosion and storm surge, restoration in mangroves was the most effective, followed by coral reefs and wetlands. The report also points to the positive environmental results of the project, with healthy ecosystems making a comeback, such as growing mangrove coverage. Moreover, Eco-DRR measures led to increased income and improvement in livelihoods, in particular, sustainable fisheries, eco-tourism and agriculture. Notwithstanding success, the study highlights knowledge gaps, integration with policies, and long-termed maintenance of ecosystems as challenges. The research demonstrates the potential for Eco-DRR to be an affordable, sustainable and community-based approach to disaster risk reduction in coastlines" and that it can also support local economic development and environmental sustainability.

Keywords:  Ecosystem-Based Disaster Risk Reduction (Eco-DRR), Coastal Communities, Mangrove Restoration, Climate Resilience, Sustainable Livelihoods.