The Role of Forensic Science in Disaster Management: Advancing Preparedness and Resilience
摘要
Disasters, both natural and anthropogenic, pose significant threats to human lives, infrastructure, and the environment. The increasing frequency and intensity of disasters due to climate change, population growth, and urbanization necessitate robust disaster management strategies. Forensic science has emerged as a pivotal tool in understanding, mitigating, and responding to disasters. This chapter explores the role of forensic methodologies in disaster management, emphasizing their contributions to structural failure analysis, environmental forensics, disaster victim identification (DVI), and anthropological investigations. Key processes, such as disaster site documentation, evidence handling, and identity verification, are detailed to showcase the multidisciplinary applications of forensics in DRR. Challenges, including interdisciplinary collaboration, capacity building, and the need for standardized protocols, are addressed alongside future directions that highlight technological innovations and public engagement. By integrating forensic science into disaster studies, this research underscores its potential to build resilient communities and enhance preparedness for future calamities.