On May 28, GMS Partner and GeoHazards International (GHI) Board Trustee Ramon Gilsanz delivered a powerful presentation at the Real Academia de Doctores de España in Madrid. His talk, titled “Preparedness for Earthquakes, Tsunamis, and Landslides,” highlighted the critical importance of disaster mitigation and the proactive implementation of preventive measures—particularly in less developed countries—to reduce the devastating impacts of natural hazards.
Drawing on GHI’s global work, the presentation explored how effective mitigation strategies can reduce structural damage, decrease economic losses, and, most importantly, save lives. Comparisons between cities that experienced earthquakes of similar magnitudes during similar time periods illustrate the stark difference that preparedness can make. In 2010, a 7.0-magnitude earthquake in Haiti resulted in approximately 220,000 deaths. Haiti’s disaster planning had primarily focused on hurricanes, leaving the population vulnerable to seismic risks. By contrast, Chile experienced an 8.8-magnitude earthquake the same year but recorded only around 500 fatalities—a testament to their robust preparedness and infrastructure.
This disparity is further emphasized by other historical events: the 1988 Armenia earthquake led to about 25,000 deaths, while the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake in California, of similar magnitude, resulted in just 63. These examples underscore the crucial role of preparedness and the implementation of risk-reduction strategies.
GHI works to close the gap between vulnerable populations and resilient infrastructure. The presentation featured case studies that illustrated how practical, community-driven mitigation efforts can yield long-term results. In Aizawl, a city perched on steep ridges within India’s highest seismic zone, unsafe construction practices have led to frequent, deadly landslides. Recognizing these risks, GHI partnered with the local authority to co-develop hazard maps and action plans. They trained community members in understanding local geology and landslide mapping, conducted workshops, and raised awareness—ultimately fostering a locally driven initiative that continues to this day.
Another example from Nepal demonstrated that life-saving solutions don’t have to be costly. As rebuilding and retrofitting schools is a long-term process—estimated to take up to 200 years—GHI introduced “Earthquake Desks” as an interim safety solution. When tested under simulated earthquake conditions, these desks performed remarkably well: the frame remained intact with only cosmetic damage, and the top breaks to create an A-frame effectively shielded students from falling debris.
A central message of the presentation was that economic disparity often dictates whether a natural event becomes a disaster. While wealthier countries benefit from strict building codes and enforcement, many developing regions lack the regulations and resources needed to protect their populations—often resulting in generational setbacks and increased poverty. The presentation called for greater global cooperation and knowledge-sharing to support equitable disaster risk reduction.
GMS is proud to support the efforts of GeoHazards International and to contribute to the global dialogue on building a safer, more resilient world.
To watch the full presentation, please visit the Real Academia de Doctores de España website:
https://www.rade.es/pagina.php?item=1730
To learn more about GHI, please visit their website:
https://www.geohaz.org/