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Knowledge utilization in hazard mitigation planning

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Knowledge in Society

Abstract

A survey of local government planners and engineers in New Zealand, and an assessment of dealings with planning committees consisting of elected councilors, showed a range of attitudes to hazard mitigation planning. The survey suggests that the main requirement for knowledge utilization is personal contact, with involvement and discussion at all stages and levels of planning schemes and developments. However, communication strategies would have to go beyond enlightenment of those lacking information. They should encompass both enlisting those who are reluctant to accept hazard information and engaging with those who, for sociopolitical reasons, refuse to utilize it.

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J. Geoffrey Gregory is program leader for the information program of New Zealand geological survey. He has an extensive background in scientific editing and information work.

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Gregory, J.G. Knowledge utilization in hazard mitigation planning. Knowledge in Society 1, 28–39 (1988). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02737057

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