With the increasing frequency of natural and human-induced disasters and the increasing magnitude of their consequences, a clear need exists for governments and communities to become more resilient. The National Research Council's 2012 report Disaster Resilience: A National Imperative addressed the importance of resilience, discussed different challenges and approaches for building resilience, and outlined steps for implementing resilience efforts in communities and within government. Launching a National Conversation on Disaster Resilience in America is a summary of a one-day event in November 2012 to formally launch a national conversation on resilience. Nationally-recognized experts in disaster resilience met to discuss developing a culture of resilience, implementing resilience, and understanding federal perspectives about resilience. This report includes a broad range of perspectives and experiences derived from many types of hazards and disasters in all parts of the country.

Table of Contents


Front Matter
Chapter 1 Framing the Conversation
Chapter 2 Resilience as a Complex National Endeavor
Chapter 3 A National Vision for Resilience: Next Steps
Appendix A: Agenda
Appendix B: Biographical Information-Plenary Session Participants
Appendix C: List of Registered Participants
Appendix D: List of Questions for Afternoon Breakout Sessions