Disaster events are complex, unpredictable, and often overwhelming. The Disaster CAS Continuum offers a fresh lens for disaster practitioners to navigate this dynamic environment. Grounded in complexity, the framework conceptualises disaster and emergency management (DEM) systems as adaptive networks that continuously shift in response to evolving challenges.
Traditional phased approaches to DEM often fail to capture the fluid and interconnected nature of contemporary disasters. These approaches assume linear progression, overlooking the dynamic interplay between multiple actors and systems in a constantly evolving environment. The Disaster CAS Continuum provides a more holistic perspective, enabling practitioners to address complexity and uncertainty with greater agility.
Central to the complex adaptive systems (CAS) perspective is recognising the importance of decentralised decision-making. Disasters often require rapid, localised responses, where frontline actors leverage situational awareness and emergent behaviours to address immediate needs. Empowering decentralised decision-making enhances adaptability, fosters innovation, and strengthens the overall resilience of the system.
The presentation will introduce the Disaster CAS Continuum as a practical tool to bridge theory and practice. By embracing complexity and decentralisation, practitioners can more effectively collaborate, adapt, and respond to the challenges of modern disaster environments, transforming the way we approach DEM.