Disasters: Myths, facts, and how our choices turn hazards into catastrophes

Disasters are ever present in the news. But how much do we really know about them? Is every earthquake or storm a disaster? Are there more disasters today than before? Who are people most likely to ask for help? And, should you really donate your old clothes?In this session, we will go over the basic facts and myths surrounding disasters and disaster risks, discuss why we don’t use the term ‘natural disasters’ anymore, explore cutting edge topics in disaster science—e.g. space risks, disaster networks, so-called 'nature-based solutions', or the role of informal actors (like you!) in catastrophes—and together find out what disaster science and ecology/biology/conservation have to learn from each other.