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A Coupled Human-Natural Systems Framework of Community Resilience
Citation:
Maxwell, K. A Coupled Human-Natural Systems Framework of Community Resilience. Journal of Natural Resources Policy Research. Penn State University Press, University Park, PA, 8:110-130, (2018).
Impact/Purpose:
This article presents a theoretical framework for analyzing community environmental resilience. Its purpose is to fill a gap in resilience science. Current disaster resilience frameworks do not adequately incorporate environmental and ecological variables. This article uses a systems approach to situate disaster resilience as part of broader dynamics between coupled human and natural systems. Its impact will be on resilience science, both within EPA and more broadly. The framework will provide the theoretical basis for decision support tools that can be used by communities to build their environmental resilience to disasters.
Description:
Communities across the United States experience earthquakes, tornadoes, severe storms, and environmental emergencies. Disasters affect communities by displacing human populations, devastating the local economy, destroying critical infrastructure, damaging natural resources, and disrupting environmental services. This article compares and contrasts resilience frameworks to identify commonalities and gaps. It proposes use of a coupled human-natural systems framework (CHNS) to analyze community resilience to disasters.
