Abstract. Earth science information (data, knowledge, advice) can
enhance the evidence base for land-use decision-making. The utility of this
information depends on factors including the context and objectives of
land-use decisions, the timeliness and efficiency with which earth science
information is delivered, and the strength, relevance, uncertainties, and
risks assigned to earth science information relative to other inputs. We
investigate land-use decision-making practices in Christchurch, New Zealand,
and the surrounding region in response to mass movement (e.g., rockfall,
cliff collapses) and ground-surface fault rupture hazards incurred during
the 2010–2011 Canterbury earthquake sequence (CES). Rockfall fatality risk
models combining hazard, exposure, and vulnerability data were co-produced by
earth scientists and decision makers and formed primary evidence for
risk-based land-use decision-making with adaptive capacity. A public
consultation and submission process enabled consideration of additional
earth science information primarily via stakeholder requests. For fault
rupture hazards, pre-disaster geotechnical guidelines and collaboration
networks enhanced the ability of earth scientists to rapidly acquire
relevant observational data to meet the demands of decision makers.
Expeditious decision-making granted permissive consent for rebuilding in the
fault rupture zone based on preliminary scientific advice that was
subsequently supported by more comprehensive geological investigations.
Rapidly fluctuating and diverse demands for post-disaster earth science
information may be best met through the prior establishment of (i) land-use
policies and technical guidelines tailored for a variety of diverse disaster
scenarios, (ii) hazard and risk analyses in land-use plans, including
acquisition of geospatial and other earth science data, and (iii) coordinated scientific networks that may comprise subgroups with diverse goals, operational perspectives, and protocols which allow the many facets of scientific information acquisition and delivery to be successfully
addressed. Despite the collective knowledge shared here, some recent land-use practices in New Zealand continue to prioritize other (e.g.,
socioeconomic) factors above earth science information, even in areas of
extreme disaster risk.
Psychology and Selection - Antarctic psychology. A. J. W. Taylor 1987. Wellington NZ, Science Information Publishing Centre (NZDSIR Bulletin 244). 145 p, illustrated, soft cover. ISBN 0-477-02508-0. Sales to New Zealand and Australia NZ$38.00 retail, NZ$41.00 including postage and packing; other sales US$41.00.