The occurrence of natural disasters has been increasing—partly due to contemporary climate change—and adaptation to disaster risks is important for local communities. At the same time, many communities are experiencing shrinking population. The ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction (Eco-DRR) takes advantage of the multi-functionality of ecosystems, including their capacity to mitigate disasters while providing multiple ecosystem services; population decline provides ample opportunity for implementing Eco-DRR. Project research will develop practical solutions for implementation of Eco-DRR in local communities by visualizing natural disaster risks, evaluating multi-functionality of Eco-DRR, conducting scenario analysis, co-delivering trial implementation in local communities, and collaborating with the insurance sector.

Ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction (Eco-DRR) not only lowers disaster risks but also receives benefits of ecosystem services by reducing the exposure of human activities in high-hazard locations and performing human activities in low-hazard places.