The Disasters Avoided initiative has published the 17th edition of its newsletter for October 2026. This edition marks the conclusion of a six-part series exploring the Disasters Avoided Model, which identifies six interconnected factors that contribute to preventing disasters. The latest edition focuses on the sixth factor: “Meaningful Targets”. It examines how appropriate targets can help reduce risks, prevent disasters and strengthen societal resilience.
The newsletter explores how meaningful targets should be developed and monitored. Four key elements are highlighted: alignment with the right mindset, balanced targets, actionable indicators, and long-term monitoring and evaluation. The focus should not be on the number of targets established, but rather on their relevance, practical applicability and ability to drive meaningful outcomes. Transparent monitoring and the involvement of different societal stakeholders are equally important, alongside the flexibility to adapt targets as circumstances and contexts change.
The practical application of meaningful targets in disaster risk reduction is illustrated through two examples focusing on flood risk management and responses to severe air pollution. In addition, the edition addresses the train collision in Spain in October 2026, highlighting the importance of transparent safety targets, clear accountability and long-term investment. Another highlight is an interview with Gordon Woo about his book The Science of Surprising Catastrophes, co-authored with Neil Johnson. The discussion explores counterfactual thinking and how systematically examining past events can help anticipate and prevent future disasters.
The edition highlights that effective disaster prevention cannot rely on individual measures alone. Instead, it requires an integrated approach combining meaningful targets, appropriate investment, good governance, reliable data and societal inclusion. The Disasters Avoided Model provides an overarching framework for structuring disaster prevention efforts and monitoring their effectiveness over the long term.
The full Newsletter, Edition 17 of Disasters Avoided, is available on the initiative’s website here.