What is the effort to reduce loss of life and property by lessening the impact of disasters called?

The effort to reduce loss of life and property by lessening the impact of disasters is referred to as mitigation of risk. This concept focuses on taking proactive measures to minimize the vulnerability of communities and individuals to disasters, whether natural or human-made. Mitigation strategies can include enforcing building codes, improving infrastructure, implementing land-use planning, and fostering public awareness about risks and safety measures. By addressing potential hazards before they lead to disasters, communities can save lives, reduce injury, and protect property.

In contrast, risk assessment is the process of identifying potential hazards and analyzing their potential impact, but it does not involve the active implementation of measures to reduce risk. Emergency response involves the immediate actions taken during and after a disaster to manage the situation, but it occurs after a disaster has already impacted a community, rather than preventing it. Disaster recovery focuses on restoring a community after a disaster has occurred, which is also reactive rather than proactive. Thus, mitigation of risk is uniquely positioned as a preventative strategy aimed at reducing the overall impact of potential disasters.