E-LEARNING COURSE

Disaster Risk Reduction and

Climate Change Adaptation

HEKS
 E-LEARNING COURSE
Course overview Disaster Risk Reduction and
Climate Change Adaptation

MODULE 1 Basic definitions and concepts

MODULE 2 Conceptual guidance

MODULE 3 Practical Illustrations

MODULE 4 Integrating DRR and CCA into the project cycle

http://www.drrplatform.org/learning
MODULE 3
Practical illustrations
LEARNING COURSE
Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation
HEKS
 E-LEARNING COURSE
Module overview Disaster Risk Reduction and
Climate Change Adaptation

MODULE 3 | Practical Illustrations

Chapter 1: Recap: DRR Concepts
This chapter reviews key DRR and CCA concepts.

Chapter 2: Case studies on targeted DRR and CCA

Experiences from the field illustrate how targeted DRR and CCA can be applied in practice.

CASE STUDY: Seasonal forecasting and early warning in Chad

Targeted DRR

CASE STUDY: Community-managed disaster risk reduction in India

Targeted DRR

Chapter 3: Case studies on integrated DRR and CCA

Experiences from the field illustrate how integrated DRR and CCA are applied in practice.

Integrated DRR
CASE STUDY: Increasing food security in Mayahi Department, Niger

Integrated DRR
CASE STUDY: Improved livelihoods for a rural population in a conflict-affected context, Afghanistan

Integrated DRR
CASE STUDY: Protected water recharge areas to improve ecosystem services, Bolivia
 E-LEARNING COURSE
Module overview Disaster Risk Reduction and
Climate Change Adaptation

> MODULE 3 | Practical Illustrations

Chapter 3: Case studies on integrated DRR and CCA
Experiences from the field illustrate how integrated DRR and CCA are applied in practice.

CASE STUDY: Integrated watershed management for DRR in Tajikistan

Integrated DRR

CASE STUDY: Linking DRR and WASH in Myanmar

Integrated DRR

Chapter 4: Case studies for resilience

Experiences from the field illustrate how resilience building can work in practice.

CASE STUDY: Climate-proof disaster risk reduction programme, Partners for Resilience (PfR) phase I, Nicaragua
Resilience

CASE STUDY: Local level monitoring with views from the frontline, Global
Resilience

Chapter 5: Summary + Quiz

A short recap of Module 3.
 MODULE 3
In this module you will: Practical illustrations

Recapitalize key concepts of Module 1 and 2 in order to link

DRR/CCA to practical applications.

See how targeted DRR, integrated DRR/CCA and resilience

building have been implemented in different risk contexts
and geographic regions.

Learn about differences and similarities of the different

approaches.
CHAPTER 1
Recap:
DRR
Concepts
This chapter reviews key
DRR and CCA concepts

Plan
 MODULE 3
Background Practical illustrations
1

2
Disasters are not purely the results of hazardous events, but have social, political and
economic dimensions and are increasingly linked to climate change. They have the
heaviest impact on poor and developing countries, with poorest people being hit the
hardest and small-scale disasters causing the most harm. 3

Disasters can be causes or consequences of development failures whereas development

can increase or decrease disaster risks. Therefore, development activities need to take the 4
prevailing risk context into account and to adjust accordingly.

Appropriate measures can prevent or reduce the impacts of hazardous events and have
Q
the potential to avoid disasters. DRR and CCA can save lives and livelihoods, and aim to
strengthen the resilience of communities.

There are different responses to disaster risks: DRR and CCA are complementary
approaches that can reduce both short- and long-term risk. Resilience is a broader
concept that focuses on capacities.
 MODULE 3
Concepts Practical illustrations
1

2
Approaches to reduce disaster risks need to be
comprehensive with interventions aimed at
managing risks through prevention, risk 3
mitigation, preparedness, response and risk
sharing. Reducing disaster risks from different
angles helps increase the effectiveness of DRR 4
interventions.
Figure: The Disaster Risk Management Cycle

Targeted DRR aims to reduce disaster risks to Q

the level of risk that is acceptable or tolerable
depending on social, economic, political,
cultural, technical and environmental
conditions.

Figure: The Risk Staircase

 MODULE 3
Concepts Practical illustrations
1

2
screening of risks
Integrating DRR and CCA measures into
development and humanitarian 3
initiatives can reduce or even prevent
the impact of climate and disaster risk, project activitites aim
save lives and livelihoods and strengthen at not increasing risk
4
the resilience of communities.

A resilience approach should tackle mitigate impact

sustainable livelihood capitals for long- Q
term sustainability. The objective is to
build shock-resistant livelihoods and, in DRR/CCA are analyzed
the longer term, to help people lift and according activities
themselves out of poverty. are implemented
Figure: Livelihoods framework

Figure: Integrated DRR

CHAPTER 2
Case studies
on targeted
DRR and CCA
Experiences from the field illustrate how
targeted DRR and CCA can be applied in
practice

Swiss Red Cross

 Targeted DRR

Integrated DRR

Resilience

CASE STUDY:
Seasonal forecasting and early warning in Chad

This project addresses the prevailing information gap on weather patterns by setting up a
locally owned Early Warning System. This enables the population to prepare and the
authorities to respond better to risks.

Caritas
Overview Case study: Seasonal forecasting and early warning in Chad 1

Location: Chad
Project by: Caritas Switzerland 3
Project period: Since 2012
Type of measure: Establishment of an early warning system 4

Objective: Enable farmers to adapt to changes in the food

security situation by ensuring access to up-to-date Q
information about key factors that influence local
food security
Risk context Case study: Seasonal forecasting and early warning in Chad 1

Context Chad
One of the poorest countries: The Sahel region of the country where 1.6 million 2
people live is marked by structural poverty and chronic food insecurity.
Productivity is low and the yields vary due to volatile precipitation, locusts and
pests. Scarce resources are further degraded as farmers cut wood for cooking 3
purposes.
Risk of famine is constantly looming but monitoring is difficult since local data
is lacking. 4

Current and projected climate change impacts

Rain pattern changes and a shift of the precipitation zones. Q

Most relevant hazards

Drought
Pest infestation

Impacts on community
Due to the recurring character of these hazards, farmers can hardly build
contingency reserves, making them even more vulnerable.
Activities Case study: Seasonal forecasting and early warning in Chad 1

Establish Seasonal Forecasting and Early Warning System to:

Sensitize local communities to early warning systems as a mechanism to monitor risk for food insecurity by 2
actively involving women.
Assist villages in selecting the members of the early warning system bureau in a participatory process.
3
Train the bureau members (volunteers) on data collection methods (e.g., rain gauge, pest infestation, movement
of herds, jobs for young people, market prices for agricultural products, soil fertility, population, migration).
Train the involved local authorities on data analysis and consolidation. 4

Support bureau and local authorities in disseminating information to the population.

Q
Achievements Case study: Seasonal forecasting and early warning in Chad 1

More than 29000 beneficiaries have access to the information generated by this system.
3
Four early warning systems established with 199 members.

Peoples response to crises and their resilience improved (e.g., use of adapted crops based
4
on drought or flood forecast).

Communities provided with a tool that can be managed locally with little money.
Q
Lessons learned Case study: Seasonal forecasting and early warning in Chad 1

2
Community ownership: System must be set up
and owned by local communities.
3
Cooperation between different actors: To be
sustainable, a local system needs to be linked to
official structures so that the data collected can 4
trigger the necessary interventions.

Changing relations: The local early warning Q

system gave power to the communities through
information, changing their relation to
authorities from beneficiaries of aid to relevant
stakeholders.
More information:
Caritas Switzerland
 Targeted DRR

Integrated DRR

Resilience

CASE STUDY:
Community-managed disaster risk reduction in
India
This targeted DRR project strengthens peoples preparedness and supports livelihood
diversification. It focuses on building capacities of womens collectives as agents for change.

Caritas
Overview Case study: CMDRR in India 1

Location: Bihar, India

Project by: Caritas Switzerland 3
Project period: 20122015
Type of measure: Community-Managed Disaster Risk Reduction 4

Objective: Enhance capacities of the communities to cope

with natural hazards and link them with district, Q
state and national disaster management plans
for risk mitigation
Risk context Case study: CMDRR in India 1

Context India 2
Highly vulnerable to disasters, losing on average 2% of GDP
annually to flood and drought.
The state of Bihar is one of the poorest in India with over 30% 3
of population below the poverty line.
Most relevant hazards
28 out of 38 districts in Bihar get flooded regularly with 4
subsequent waterlogging, causing huge losses of property,
lives, farmlands and infrastructure. At the same time, drought
affects a majority of districts in Bihar. Q
Weak infrastructure such as old embankments further
exacerbate the situation as they may breach in the event of a
heavy flood event.
Effects
Loss of lives, assets and livelihoods due to floods, waterlogging
and drought. Source: Locate Bihar
Activities Case study: CMDRR in India 1

Institutional capacity: Link local disaster management plans with government approaches. 2

Community preparedness: Establishment of local disaster risk management committees, improvement of

relevant skills (e.g., first aid, swimming, flood-proofing buildings and stocks).
3
Resilience: Enhance agricultural production and other livelihood options for the community through flood-
resistant crops.
Reduce vulnerability: Raise awareness of the risks of human trafficking, which is frequent in the region, often 4
disaster-induced, and provide inputs for livelihood diversification.

Q
Achievements Case study: CMDRR in India 1

2
Institutional capacity and preparedness: 68
villages linked to local governance structures and
21000 households involved in preparedness 3
activities.

Resilience: Productive water management system 4

for agricultural production is reflected in
Caritas
contingency and development plans.
Q
Access: Integration of DRR measures in governmental flagship programmes for rural
employment, sanitation, rural housing.

Awareness of human trafficking and unsafe migration: 90% of households aware of the
issue of human trafficking and its implications and can take measures to protect their
community members.
Lessons learned Case study: CMDRR in India 1

2
Working through local institutions and village leaders
enhances sustainability and cost-effective scaling-up, builds
rapport with the community and enhances ownership. 3

Innovative disaster-resilient crop cultivation has both

immediate and long-term impacts in the context of climate
4
change. Caritas

Marginalized communities require support for livelihood

resilience and stronger bases for advocacy of their cause. Q
More information:
Building capacities of womens collectives to prepare durable, Caritas Switzerland
General information by Government of India:
nutritious food for survival kits and herbal medicine kits to
http://www.in.undp.org/content/india/en/hom
address nutritional deficiencies during floods improves the ability e/library/environment_energy/disaster-
to respond. management-in-india.html
or
http://www.in.undp.org/content/dam/india/doc
s/disaster_management_in_india.pdf
CHAPTER 3
Case studies
on integrated
DRR and CCA
Experiences from the field illustrate how
integrated DRR and CCA are applied in
practice

AYO Myanmar
 Targeted DRR

Integrated DRR

Resilience

CASE STUDY:
Increasing food security in Mayahi Department,
Niger
This case study shows the integration of CCA and DRR into a food security programme by
adapting agricultural methods to climate change.

HEKS
Overview Case study: DRR and agriculture in Niger 1

Location: Mayahi Department, Niger

Project by: HEKS 3
Project period: 20142017

Type of measure: Adapted seeds and agricultural techniques. 4

Objective: Improvement of food security and farm incomes of

small-scale producers through increased production of Q
millet and cowpea.
Risk context Case study: DRR and agriculture in Niger 1

Context Niger
2
Population growth and increased pressure on land leads to farmers having to live on less and less land.
The agricultural sector is marked by low levels of rain, increased variability in the weather and low
yields, especially for small-scale farmers.
3
Climate change impacts
Temperature increase by more than 0.7 C over the past century.
Increase in rain variability (shortening of rainy season). 4
Increased pests at the end of the rainy season.

Most relevant hazards

Recurring drought Q
Ongoing desertification

Effects
Farmers suffer from food insecurity due to:
low yields of basic staple food such as millet and cow pea.
harvest loss due to pests.
Activities Case study: DRR and agriculture in Niger 1

Testing and promotion of adapted seed varieties of millet

and cowpea better able to cope with changing climatic 3
conditions in the region.
Soil and water conservation activities by using of Za
(digging of planting pits), tillage, compost, water 4
harvesting. HEKS

Production and use of natural pesticides made from the

Neem tree and the use of the ichneumon wasp. Q
Use of PICS bag (improved crop storage bag) for efficient
post-harvest management.
Production of multi-nutrition fodder blocs made of
harvest byproducts enriched with phosphor and salt and
sold for additional income.

HEKS
Achievements Case study: DRR and agriculture in Niger 1

screening of risks
Increased the use of improved varieties that are adapted
to the climatic conditions of the intervention area. 3

Established demonstration units showcasing promising project activitites aim at

agricultural technologies to increase yields of millet and not increasing risk 4
cowpea.

Strengthened the capacity of farmers in the production Q

mitigate impact
and sale of animal feed from agricultural by-products.

DRR/CCA are analyzed

and according activities are
implemented
Lessons learned Case study: DRR and agriculture in Niger 1

Combining technical approaches, i.e.,

adapted seeds with capacity-building 3
supports the sustainability of the
interventions.
4
Integrating future climate change impacts
strengthens capacities of farmers in dealing
with increasing disasters. Q
HEKS

More information:
HEKS:
https://www.eper.ch/sites/default/files/docume
nts/2017-01/Factsheet16_Projet_756351.pdf
 Targeted DRR

Integrated DRR

Resilience

CASE STUDY:
Improved livelihoods for a rural population in a
conflict-affected context, Afghanistan
This case study applies DRR measures to reduce risks to local livelihood assets related
to agriculture in a fragile and conflict-affected context.

Helvetas
Overview Case study DRR in conflict contexts in Afghanistan 1

Location: Afghanistan
Project by: Helvetas 3
Project period: 20122014 (Phase III)

Type of measure: Reducing flash flood damages and drought risks, 4

and increasing long-term land productivity.

Objective: To contribute to improved livelihoods of poor rural Q

population.
Risk context Case study DRR in conflict contexts in Afghanistan 1

Context Afghanistan 2
Remote, dry and cold mountainous regions.
Conflict: War over 30 years, high level of corruption, war economy and organized crime.
People disconnected from weak government. 3
Increasing divides along ethnicity, tribal affiliation and religion.

Climate change impacts

Increased intensity and frequency mainly of flash floods, but also droughts. 4

Most relevant hazards

Drought, floods, loss of soil fertility due to erosion. Q

Effects
Overuse of limited pasture lands, reduced vegetation coverage, erosion, decreased soil
fertility and production resulting from degradation of natural resources.
Damages and losses of harvest, agriculture land, fertility and infrastructure.
Increased tensions and local conflicts related to insecurity, fragility and scarcity of natural
resources.
Activities Case study DRR in conflict contexts in Afghanistan 1

2
DRR and Natural Resource Management Measures:
screening of risks
Implementation of bio-engineering and soil conservation
3
measures (terracing, trenches).

Participatory watershed development, through technical project activitites aim at

capacity-building for joint implementation and maintenance not increasing risk 4
of infrastructure measures by local committees .

Establishment and training of community disaster Q

preparedness teams. mitigate impact

Development and official recognition of pasture and water

use management plans by community-based organizations. DRR/CCA are analyzed
and according activities are
implemented
Activities Case study DRR in conflict contexts in Afghanistan 1

2
Project cycle management not fundamentally different than in stable
contexts, but with additional features:
Use of multiple sources of information for more intensive/regular 3
context assessment (monitoring of patterns/indicators of fragility,
scenarios).
Addressing visible short-term problems and causes and effects 4
of conflicts and fragility.
Flexible programming designs: Greater flexibility in the use of
resources (quick decisions). Q

Adapting monitoring and accountability systems.

Increased dialogue with humanitarian actors and other actors.
Enhanced security management. 3 steps approach to linking DRR with conflict
sensitivity: Developed by Helvetas, KOFF, Swisspeace
Achievements Case study DRR in conflict contexts in Afghanistan 1

2
Reduced vulnerability to flash floods and
drought through integrated water and land
management. 3

Increased self-subsistence and income

through improved and diversified production in 4
agriculture and livestock and access to markets.

Increased capacities and skills of local Q

institutions to support and manage economic
Helvetas
development and to reduce social tensions and
conflicts.
Lessons learned Case study DRR in conflict contexts in Afghanistan 1

2
DRR can be an excellent entry point to tackle sensitive change and More information:
conflict issues and to foster trust. HELVETAS (Project website) Improving
Livelihoods of Rural Communities in
Afghanistan (ILRC): 3
A detailed understanding of local security and fragility issues provides
https://afghanistan.helvetas.org/en/proj
the basis to design suitable DRR schemes.
ects/ilrc/
3-Step Manual for working in fragile and
It is crucial to link DRR analysis with the analysis of conflict and conflict-affected situations (WFCS), 4
fragility, and pursue a parallel approach. (Helvetas /KOFF):
https://assets.helvetas.org/downloads/2
Legitimate and capable local institutions are key to successful DRR 013_hsi_manual_3_steps_wfcs.pdf
measures: trust is needed to invest in long term-planning to guarantee HELVETAS (2013) SLM Technologies and
Q
maintenance of DRR systems. Approaches from Afghanistan:
https://www.wocat.net/fileadmin/user_u
In the absence of a functioning state, DRR at the micro level is even pload/documents/Books/Afghanistan_fa
ct_sheets.pdf
more crucial and can have a significant positive impact at the local
HELVETAS (2014) Training Modules for
level. Upland measures:
https://afghanistan.helvetas.org/en/publ
ications/training_modules/training_upla
nds/
 Targeted DRR

Integrated DRR

Resilience

CASE STUDY:
Protected water recharge areas to improve
ecosystem services, Bolivia
This case study shows how rehabilitated and protected ecosystems can effectively reduce
risks and contribute to the natural, economic and social livelihood assets of the community.

Helvetas
Overview Case study: DRR and ecosystems in Bolivia 1

2
Location: Bolivia
Project by: Helvetas
Project period: 20102014 (Phase III) 3

Type of measure: Ecosystem-based DRR measures to rehabilitate

degraded areas. 4

Objective: Community initiative for territorial risk management

and collective action through protected water recharge Q
areas for improved ecosystem services and reduced
risks.
Risk context Case study: DRR and ecosystems in Bolivia 1

2
Context Bolivia
Deforestation for agricultural land and overgrazing led to soil erosion and the degradation
of water resources, and affected ecosystem services .
Complementing existing sources with rainwater harvesting is insufficient to meet the 3
domestic consumption demand.

Climate change impacts 4

Drought is the main hazard, amplified by climate change effects.

Most relevant hazards

Droughts and landslides highly influenced by inappropriate agricultural and livestock Q
management practices.

Impacts on community
Compromised community income, nutrition and health due to reduced agricultural
productivity and losses.
Cases of temporary migration due to a lack of alternatives.
Activities Case study: DRR and ecosystems in Bolivia 1

2
Benefits of ecosystem-based DRR /CCA
Experience sharing with authorities and the
communities of other protected areas, and reflections on
benefits, limitations and collaboration between actors. 3

Legal recognition of the protected area in municipal law.

4
Infrastructure measures: fencing of protected forest
area, improvement of water intake, stocking and
distribution system.
Q
Participatory project implementation: community
together with local technicians.

Establishment of control mechanisms: maintenance

plan, regulations, measurement of water consumption.

Source: PEDDR
Achievements Case study: DRR and ecosystems in Bolivia 1

2
Protected ecosystems for improved water resources:
The fenced and rehabilitated water catchment area will screening of risks
reduce future disaster risks related to erosion, landslides
and droughts. 3

Improved quantity and quality of water resources for project activitites aim at
domestic consumption and livestock through an not increasing risk 4
efficient water collection and distribution system (water
harvesting tanks, consumption-based taxation of water).
Q
Developed technical capacities of local partners to mitigate impact
implement and maintain the protected area.
Promoted the understanding and recognition of
DRR/CCA are analyzed
protected areas through awareness-raising and and according activities are
experience exchange among local communities together implemented
with local governments.
Lessons learned Case study: DRR and ecosystems in Bolivia 1

2
The intervention requires from its very beginning a successful
combination of hard measures (fencing, improved water infrastructure)
and soft components starting with awareness-raising followed by
technical capacity-building. 3

Well-protected ecosystems and appropriate agricultural practices go

hand in hand, but require a good understanding of ecosystem services
and long-term benefits.
Community ownership requires a good understanding of the problems
and linkages (climate change, environmental degradation and the
impacts of disaster-related damages and losses on livelihood assets).
Community participation for the initiatives design and implementation
is key.
Capacity-building to maintain the protected area and water system
contributes to improved local risk governance.
4
Q
More information:
Helvetas Bolivia, Engagement in DRR:
https://bolivia.helvetas.org/actividades/proyectos
_en_bolivia/reduccion_del_riesgo_de_desastres/
Risk reduction Risk governance project (RRD):
www.rrd.com.bo
Experience capitalization movies of RDD project:
http://www.rrd.com.bo/?page_id=15
Experience capitalization documents of RDD
project: http://www.rrd.com.bo/?page_id=10
 Targeted DRR

Integrated DRR

Resilience

CASE STUDY:
Integrated watershed management for DRR in
Tajikistan
Through a holistic management of natural resources, the project reduces the risk for floods
and landslides while at the same time improving livelihoods in the watersheds.

Caritas
Overview Case study: CMDRR in Tajikistan 1

Location: Tajikistan
Project by: Caritas Switzerland 3
Project period: Since 2011
Type of measure: Integrated Watershed Management (IWSM) 4

Objective: Reduce disaster risk and strengthen resilience by

introducing sustainable management of natural Q
resources.
Risk context Case study: CMDRR in Tajikistan 1

Context Muminabad district in Southern Tajikistan

Region faces recurrent food insecurity and poverty with an estimated 60% of the 2
population living below the poverty line.
Widespread poverty leads to overexploitation of natural resources, which results in
increased disaster risks.
3
Despite growing awareness, management capacity is weak and only limited coordinated
efforts take place in the region.
Climate change impacts 4
Increased frequency of extreme events.
Dry and rainy seasons shifting and becoming less predictable, posing high risk for
subsistence agriculture and pastoralists.
Q
Most relevant hazards
Debris flow, flash floods and landslides, further exacerbated by overgrazing,
unsustainable agricultural practices and deforestation.
Impacts on community
Damages to assets and infrastructure.
Loss of agricultural land and pasture areas.
Impacts on micro-climate due to deforestation and soil degradation.
Vulnerability to these hazards partly due to high levels of poverty, ineffective land management (overgrazing, deforestation
and mono-cropping), unfavorable topography and weak governance (post-Soviet).
Activities Case study: CMDRR in Tajikistan 1

2
Overall approach:
screening of risks
Foster exchange and linkage to official disaster management
administration through local representation (gender-sensitive 3
civil society committees).
project activitites aim at
Application of sound watershed mapping: hazard maps, not increasing risk 4
hydrology, erosion, risk hotspots.

Setup of Watershed Action Plans (WAP) through a partnership Q

between local government and civil society. mitigate impact

Create a momentum for change through promotion of

evidence-based decision-making. DRR/CCA are analyzed
and according activities are
implemented
Activities Case study: CMDRR in Tajikistan 1

Upper and Middle zone of watershed: 2

Implementation of Sustainable Land Management Practices: screening of risks

Agroforestry 3
Joint Pasture Management at community level: rotational
grazing, social fencing, establishment of Pasture User Unions
Flood mitigation structures project activitites aim at
not increasing risk 4
Lower zone of watershed:

Introduce energy-efficient stoves with local production, Q

reducing rate of deforestation and simultaneously create mitigate impact
income.
Small- and middle-scale mitigation infrastructure and debris
barriers. DRR/CCA are analyzed
and according activities are
implemented
Achievements Case study: CMDRR in Tajikistan 1

Visible positive impacts of IWSM-approach on DRR and livelihoods encourage communities 2

to engage in sustainable land management and energy efficiency practices (evidence-based
decision making).

Income increased through introduction of new crops (e.g. lucerne, esparcette): Since 2011, 3
46% of total Watershed Area are under improved management.

Pasture productivity increased through introduction of Pasture User Unions and resulting 4
rotational grazing and social fencing.

Increased active participation of women in decision-making processes.

Q

Unknown
Lessons learned Case study: CMDRR in Tajikistan 1

2
The approach showcases co-benefits of long-term risk
reduction and environmental management with direct
livelihood improvement: 3
Inclusive decision-making (e.g., through Pasture User
Unions) is key to moving from overexploitation to
sustainable natural resources management, requiring 4
new ways of thinking in a post-Soviet context.
Caritas
Base decision-making on creating local evidence for Q
the benefits of sustainable land management practices,
supported by tools like cost-benefit-analysis. More information:
Caritas Switzerland
Investments through the participatory funding https://www.caritas.ch/de/was-wir-
mechanism of Project Trust Fund trigger tun/engagement-weltweit/country-
contributions of communities and leverage project programme-of-tajikistan/
https://www.eda.admin.ch/projects/SDC/de/20
investments. 11/7F06945/phase2.html#
 Targeted DRR

Integrated DRR

Resilience

CASE STUDY:
Linking DRR and WASH in Myanmar

This project highlights how risk-proofing and improving current WASH infrastructure can
reduce the associated risks to health, livelihoods and well-being.

AYO Myanmar
Overview Case study: Linking DRR and WASH in Myanmar 1

Location: Myanmar
Project by: Caritas Switzerland 3
Project period: 20132016

Type of measure: Integrating DRR into WASH 4

Objective: Build resilience in the villages

by improving access to water, Q
sanitation and hygiene (WASH)
in the context of disaster risks.
Risk context Case study: Linking DRR and WASH in Myanmar 1

Context Myanmar
Irrawaddy Delta is a fertile, low-lying and densely populated area, and its population and 2
infrastructure are particularly at risk of natural hazards.
Water sources are subject to shortage during the dry season and to contamination during floods.
Sanitation and hygiene standards are lacking, a situation that is exacerbated during
3
flooding due to insufficient protection.
Most relevant hazards
Water Sources 4
Water ponds: low embankment, no protection, flooded in rainy season, water shortage
in dry season.
Shallow tube wells: contamination with iron and manganese, flooded in rainy season. Q
Open wells: no roof, no proper head and platform, no systematic collecting materials, water
shortage in dry season .
Sanitation
No flood-proof latrines; no containers and fluid waste.
Lack of knowledge on sanitation and hygiene.
Impacts on community
Floods and droughts reduce crop yields and contaminate drinking water sources and sanitation
infrastructure with implications for peoples health, livelihoods and well-being.
Activities Case study: Linking DRR and WASH in Myanmar 1

2
Awareness and capacities: Formation of village
committees on disaster risk and water management,
3
formulation of joint action plan.

Risk mitigation: Risk sharing mechanisms in the form

of a community emergency fund, tree plantation to 4
reduce water run-off during small-scale floods .

WASH: Awareness-raising and education, hazard- Q

proofing of village-based water and sanitation
infrastructure; construction of safe toilets,
improvement of community water ponds.

Caritas Myanmar: Community

gathers for participatory risk mapping.
Achievements Case study: Linking DRR and WASH in Myanmar 1

2
Improved water infrastructure can withstands
floods and remain functioning in times of drought screening of risks
and water scarcity. 3
Participation and contribution of community as a
whole throughout entire implementation process project activitites aim at
not increasing risk 4
ensured ownership and satisfaction with process
and results,
Q
Emergency training and designation of safe mitigate impact
havens improved the communitys feeling of safety
and preparedness.
DRR/CCA are analyzed
Emergency funds smooth financial straits caused and according activities are
implemented
by disaster damage by providing financial support
to the most destitute in the community.
Lessons learned Case study: Linking DRR and WASH in Myanmar 1

WASH and DRR need to be linked from first

assessments to setup of committees and 3
implementation of interventions.

Community mobilization is a key success factor

4
for resource mobilization.

Q
Caritas Myanmar, filter
systems for drinking water.

More information:
Caritas Switzerland
Caritas Myanmar KMSS: http://www.kmss-
caritasmyanmar.org/disaster-risk-reduction-
emergency-response-reduction-
emergency.html
CHAPTER 4
Case
studies for
resilience
Experiences from the field illustrate
how resilience building can work in
practice

Swiss Red Cross

 Targeted DRR

Integrated DRR

CASE STUDY: Resilience

Climate-proof disaster risk reduction programme,

Partners for Resilience (PfR) phase I, Nicaragua
The PfR initiative implemented in 9 countries, put communities at the center by empowering them to strengthen their
livelihoods. It connected disciplines by using the combined strength of organizations working in partnership, expanded
their focus by encompassing wider ecosystems and considering wider timescales; and connected humanitarian and
development focuses.

PfR
 Case study: Climate-proof disaster risk reduction
Overview programme, Partners for Resilience 1

Location: Departments of Madriz and Autonomous Region of

the Northern Caribbean Coast, Nicaragua 3
Project period: 20102014

Programme objectives: Strengthen community resilience through an 4

integrated approach to reduce disaster risk;
adapt to climate change; and manage and restore
Q
ecosystems.
 Case study: Climate-proof disaster risk reduction
Risk context programme, Partners for Resilience 1

Context Nicaragua
Nicaragua is one of the countries most affected by extreme events. 2
Increasing frequency and intensity of hurricanes and floods (Northern Caribbean Coast); higher temperatures
and reduced precipitation (Madriz).
More unpredictable rains (changing rain season period, intensity of rains).
3
Most relevant hazards
Hurricanes, tropical storms, coastal erosion, flooding, unpredictable rains,
sedimentation of streams on the Atlantic Coast. 4
Unpredictable rains in the Dry Corridor of Nicaragua (e.g. Madriz).
High pressure on ecosystems from deforestation (agriculture, cattle farms, timber,
palm oil production, land grabs), inadequate agricultural practices, water and soil contamination
Q
(poor sanitation, lack of trash collection system, unrestricted use of pesticides, mining industry).

Impacts on community
Hurricanes, tropical storms, coastal erosion, flooding, unpredictable rains, sedimentation of streams lead to
loss of lives/livestock/assets/crops/forest cover, food insecurity, damage to infrastructure and transportation
routes, and reduced access to potable water on the Atlantic Coast.
Unpredictable rains in the Dry Corridor of Nicaragua (e.g. Madriz) lead to losses in rain-fed agriculture and
livestock; coffee plantations replace forest cover at a higher altitude to adjust to higher temperatures;
deforestation changes micro-climates, increases landslide risk, soil erosion, wild fires and reduces water
supply; increased use of pesticides contaminates water in catchment areas.
 Case study: Climate-proof disaster risk reduction
Activities programme, Partners for Resilience 1

Advocacy: integrated approach to reduce disaster risk, adapt to climate change and 2
manage ecosystems, e.g.:
Development of municipal/regional climate change strategies through participatory
processes.
Organization of local/regional/national forums. 3
Institutional capacity building (civil society, institutions and local governments) e.g..
Disaster risk, climate change and ecosystems studies carried out with universities.
Training of disaster management brigades at community and municipal levels and in 4
schools, strengthening of Red Cross radio communications system.
Installation of weather-monitoring stations with cooperatives.

Community resilience measures, e.g.: Q

Awareness-raising campaign: fairs, competitions, murals, participatory videos,
exchange visits.
Recovery of traditional and local knowledge on disasters, climate and ecosystems
Vulnerability and capacity assessments and implementation of 33 small-scale.
projects at community-level, such as fuel-efficient stoves, field schools, rehabilitation
of wells, protection and reforestation of water recharge areas, seed banks,
agroforestry (coffee and fruit trees), backyard gardens, biofilters for greywater,
ecological toilets etc.
The PfR vision tree
 Case study: Climate-proof disaster risk reduction
Achievements programme, Partners for Resilience 1

Linking different scales: Integrating climate change projections and short-

term early warning improved preparedness and agricultural decision-making.
2

Linking across sectors: Comprehensive assessments in the planning phase

yielded broader knowledge on the interconnected risks and identification of
measures to simultaneously address risks for people, livelihoods and 3
ecosystems.

Livelihoods as assets base: Income generation and livelihoods are key to

building resilience. 4
Local ownership: The community took responsibility for the activities, e.g.
the Risk Reduction Action Plans, local identification of micro-projects,
awareness-raising campaigns, and capacity-building. Q
Partnerships: PfR partners collaborated with 66 organizations, 14 civil
society networks, 8 universities and 33 schools in Nicaragua. Partnerships
were essential to foster local ownership and sustainability.

Anticipation and response capacities: DRR measures enhancing

preparedness and anticipation through training relied on indigenous and
local knowledge.

Adaptive capacities: Adaptation action plans were developed for

municipalities and at regional level.
 Case study: Climate-proof disaster risk reduction
Lessons learned programme, Partners for Resilience 1

A resilience approach can lead to more holistic assessments 2

and a better understanding of the linkages and root causes of
risks. Risk reduction is often perceived negatively, while
resilience is more easily linked to sustainable development and
3
can motivate leaders and community members to take action.
Integrating resilience throughout the project cycle requires
more time, resources and higher flexibility from partners and 4
donors than more common DRR programmes. Programme
partners need time to get to know each other, build trust, PfR
respect and synergies. Local partners often implement various
initiatives in parallel, and have to balance their own institutional Q
interests with the interests of each partnership.
More information:
Diversity can also present a challenge: Local partners might http://www.partnersforresilience.nl/countries
not all have the same principles and values, the same reputation /nicaragua
or the same way of handling advocacy and relations with the Video: Working together for Resilience 2015
https://youtu.be/QFKF6WgaWCg
government. Joint visibility, advocacy and partnerships with
Case studies in English and Spanish, climate
governmental institutions might thus be more complicated than change strategies:
expected at first even if local partners share the same objectives. https://fr.scribd.com/user/254142000/PfrCruz
RojaNicaraguense
 Case study: Climate-proof disaster risk reduction
Partners for Resilience programme, Partners for Resilience 1

More information:
http://www.partnersforresilience.nl/

Watch this short movie from Partners for Resilience,

https://youtu.be/rApS1jPH4rM
 Targeted DRR

Integrated DRR

Resilience

CASE STUDY:
Local level monitoring with views from the
frontline, Global
This case study shows how the experiences and visions from the local level can
influence international agreements through advocacy.

CMDRR
Overview Case study: Global Network of civil society organizations for DRR 1

2
Location: Global
Project by: Global Network of civil society organizations for DRR (GNDR)
Project period: Since 2007 3

Type of measure: International Advocacy

4
Objective: Collecting community perceptions of disasters and risk,
measuring threats, local capacities and underlying
development factors at the local level and bringing local Q
knowledge to national, regional and global actors.
Risk context Case study: Global Network of civil society organizations for DRR 1

2
Current and projected climate change impacts
Climate change will increase the number and intensity of natural disasters.
3
Development of international politics
International agreements include the Hyogo Framework for Action established in 2005,
the 2015 Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFRDD), the Sustainable 4
Development Goals and the Paris Climate Agreement, all aimed at finding answers to
some of the most pressing environmental and development problems.
Q
Impacts on local actors
The international frameworks remain at a strategic, often national level and need an
action-oriented implementation shaped to the concerns, needs and resources of local
actors, especially communities.
The lack of information on local level impacts among international and national
institutions hampers implementation and the monitoring of achievements
Activities Case study: Global Network of civil society organizations for DRR 1

Gathering local knowledge of threats: Structured conversations 2

with locals about threats, consequences, actions and barriers to
change.
Aggregating data for local, national and global analysis: The 3
basis for community consultation and reflection supporting action
plans and local implementation.
Providing a basis to create local resilience models: 4
Understanding local threats, especially those that dont get
highprofile coverage and where resources are limited .
Supporting local action and learning: Local knowledge to develop Q
local action plans (how to deal with vulnerabilities and risks with
training and technical support and how to adapt local practices to
reduce risk).
Local knowledge informing policy: A participatory tool to engage
in monitoring and planning activities.
Monitoring local progress: Marking progress at the community
level through monitoring local perceptions as well as statistics.
Achievements Case study: Global Network of civil society organizations for DRR 1

Local level: Frontline is used at the local level to support community-led resilience building. In
Kiribati it has provided a platform to raise awareness and strengthen the capacity of people with 3
disability in dealing with disaster risk and climate change, and a chance to join forces with other
organizations.
4
National level: The Frontline data can be used to support national planning processes. In
Indonesia the national platform, PLANAS, is using the Frontline findings to engage with the
national actors to gain support for disaster affected communities that have been identified in the
Frontline case studies and national data. Q

Global level: Frontline has allowed GNDR and other key partners to profile local realities and
speak for the communities we work with in global and regional meetings, including SFDRR
negotiations and indicators, COP21 advocacy, and SDG prioritization.
Lessons learned Case study: Global Network of civil society organizations for DRR 1

2
Acting at different scales: High credibility comes through local
action and actors involved in collecting data at the community level
and aggregated for use at the national and international level. 3
Community ownership not only improves the quality of the data,
but also contributes to strengthening the ownership of the
4
resilience concept within communities.
Networking: The network of different civil society actors both at
the local and national levels with international advocacy increased Q
the recognition of the results.

Linking different sectors (e.g. DRR to the climate change and More information:
Sustainable Development agenda) is vital, but can be difficult to GNDR website:
http://www.gndr.org/frontline.html
achieve.
CHAPTER 5
Summary
+ Quiz
A short recap of Module 3

CBM
 MODULE 3
Key Messages Practical illustration
1

2
The local context and local needs of the target audience define the choice of DRR and CCA
approach as well as how it is customized to tackle the prevailing disaster risks.
3
Building on local structures and using participatory methods are key to building the sense of
responsibility and ownership among local stakeholders needed for a longer-term engagement and
support in DRR.
4
Approaches to reduce disaster risks often are comprehensive with interventions aimed at
managing risks through prevention, reduction and dealing with risks, thereby aiming at reducing
disaster risks from different angles which helps increase the effectiveness of DRR interventions. Q

Embedding DRR into other sectors of more direct relevance to local stakeholders, such as
livelihoods, helps to ensure the effectiveness and longer-term sustainability of DRR interventions.

DRR and CCA can offer entry points to successfully achieve other project and programme goals
(e.g., in conflict-affected and fragile contexts to address conflict transformation and peacebuilding).
 MODULE 3
QUIZ Practical illustration
1

Please tick one or several boxes 2

Looking at the risk staircase, should targeted Disaster Risk Reduction
(DRR) approaches focus on: 3

One aspect (e.g., reducing risk or dealing with risk)?

4
Several aspects (e.g., reducing risk and dealing with risk)?
Q
All aspects (preventing risk, reducing risk and dealing with risk)?
 MODULE 3
QUIZ Practical illustration
1

2
Looking at the risk staircase, should targeted Disaster Risk Reduction
(DRR) approaches focus on: 3

4
Several aspects: Depending on the local circumstances targeted
DRR should choose the right approach. This should be an Q
integrated approach targeting several steps, e.g., reducing risk
and dealing with risk, but does not have to include all steps.
 MODULE 3
QUIZ Practical illustration
1

2
Should Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) approaches focus on short- or
the long-term benefits for the communities? 3

Short-term
4

Long-term
Q
Short- and long-term
 MODULE 3
QUIZ Practical illustration
1

2
Should Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) approaches focus on short- or
the long-term benefits for the communities? 3

Q
Short- and long-term, because marginalized communities need support
in securing their livelihoods while some DRR-specific measures (e.g.,
early warning systems) are more oriented towards the longer term.
 MODULE 3
QUIZ Practical illustration
1

2
The integration of DRR in other relevant sectors to improve the
sustainability of the interventions is a key feature of: 3

Targeted DRR approaches?

4
Integrated DRR approaches?
Q
Resilience approaches?
 MODULE 3
QUIZ Practical illustration
1

2
The integration of DRR in other relevant sectors to improve the
sustainability of the interventions is a key feature of: 3

Targeted DRR approaches: the main focus are DRR measures, but they
4
are complemented by a wider support for livelihoods.

Integrated DRR approaches: DRR is integrated in sectoral projects to a Q

different degree (from risk sensitive project management to equal
consideration).

Resilience approaches try to take a holistic approach that includes all

relevant sectors and approaches.
 MODULE 3
QUIZ Practical illustration
1

Integrating DRR into development and humanitarian aid projects can include:
3
Screening of risks
4
Project activities aimed at not increasing risk
Specific DRR/CCA components in the project Q

Considering and implementing DRR/CCA in all activities

All of the features mentioned above
 MODULE 3
QUIZ Practical illustration
1

Integrating DRR into development and humanitarian aid projects can include:
3

All of the features mentioned above are part of integrated DRR,

but how many are implemented depends on the specific project
and context.
 MODULE 3
QUIZ Practical illustration
1

What distinguishes conflict-sensitive Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)?

It needs to: 3

Use multiple sources of information

4
Have more flexibility in programming designs and decision-making

Add an explicit conflict component Q

Adapt the monitoring and accountability systems

Enhance security management

 MODULE 3
QUIZ Practical illustration
1

2
What distinguishes conflict-sensitive Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)?
It does not necessarily need to have an explicit conflict component,
but it needs to: 3

Use multiple sources of information.

4
Have more flexibility in programming designs and decision-making.
Q

Adapt the monitoring and accountability systems.

Enhance security management.

What is next?

>>> The next Module 4 will present the tools and methodologies how to integrate DRR and CCA
into the project cycle.
This course has been developed for the Swiss NGO DRR Platform by:
HEKS/EPER, Caritas Switzerland, HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation, Global
Risk Forum Davos and Zo Environment Network with contribution from SDC
Visit us online: http://www.drrplatform.org/learning