Linking affected community and academic knowledge: a community-based participatory research framework based on a...

Area of Science:

• Disaster Management
• Community-Based Research
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Japan experiences frequent, damaging earthquakes, including the recent Noto Peninsula earthquake (January 1, 2024).
• Disaster prevention planning is extensive in Japan, yet challenges persist in emergency response, recovery, and reconstruction.
• Local residents and governments often face difficulties addressing disaster-related issues independently.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a community-based participatory research program implemented after the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.
• To explore the collaborative framework between universities and local communities for disaster recovery.
• To assess the applicability of this framework for future disaster management and reconstruction efforts.

Main Methods:

• A case study of a project in Shichigahama town following the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.
• Annual workshops held in the affected community, evolving into a climate monitoring survey.
• Interviews with town hall and university officials representing local residents and experts.

Main Results:

• The collaborative project successfully engaged the university and Shichigahama town.
• Workshops evolved into a climate monitoring survey, demonstrating sustained community involvement.
• Interviews highlighted mutual concerns and the value of expert participation in addressing recovery challenges.

Conclusions:

• The developed community-based participatory research framework is a valuable model for disaster recovery and reconstruction.
• This approach can aid in the recovery from the Noto Peninsula Earthquake and future disaster management initiatives.
• Cooperation between academic institutions and local communities is crucial for effective 'building back better'.