Abstract
Proper responses to hurricanes are becoming increasingly necessary because they are occurring on an unprecedented scale with human and economic losses being greater than ever. This scenario calls for a reevaluation of the value of natural ecosystems as protective agents against the impacts of storms and hurricanes. In this chapter, we analyze and show the evidence on the effectiveness of these natural protective barriers. Disaster preparedness must go beyond emergency relief and life-saving actions, and should begin with mitigation and prevention that include a combination of environmental, social, and economic aspects.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Ecological Economics of Estuaries and Coasts |
Publisher | Elsevier Inc. |
Pages | 129-146 |
Number of pages | 18 |
Volume | 12 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9780080878850 |
ISBN (Print) | 9780123747112 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 6 Mar 2012 |
Externally published | Yes |