What does the earthquake in Egypt tell us about sustainable development efforts?
What does the earthquake in Egypt tell us about sustainable development efforts?
The world is not devoid of problems in all parts of it, some of which are beyond the limits of human capabilities, such as an earthquake, and some of which are due to some irresponsible human practices, such as polluting industries. Therefore, sustainable development efforts and transformations have come in recent decades; So that people can face such challenges.
Among these problems that go beyond the limits of human capabilities is the earthquake that occurred east ofthe island of Cretein the Mediterranean Sea, and as a result, residents of Greater Cairo and some governorates felt at dawn today - Wednesday, May 14 - a follow-up earthquake, which prompted many citizens to wonder about this earthquake, and the extent of its strength and the intensity of its impact on aspects of life, which is what it sheds light on.Protectors of the EarthThe light in the following lines; So continue reading the details of this earthquake.
How it started
In its official statementThe National Institute for Astronomical and Geophysical Research confirmed that the earthquake that struck areas of Greater Cairo around 2 am was the epicenter of its occurrence about 421 kilometers north of the city of Marsa Matrouh, and that it did not result in any loss of life or any material damage, and that its intensity on the Richter scale reached: 6.4.
What is an earthquake and how does it happen?
An earthquake is a sudden vibration that strikes areas of the earth at a rapid speed. Its cause is the movement of rock layers under the earth’s surface, or due to volcanic activity in some regions of the world. Whatever its causes, an earthquake can destroy life, which makes it one of the reasons for undermining sustainable development efforts, not only through its ability to destroy the environment around us, but also through its negative impact on the population and their lives.
In detail, its material damage may intersect - in addition to injuries and potential loss of life - with Goal No. (3) of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): good health and well-being. The psychological effects of the earthquake resulting from the loss of family and friends may threaten the safety of society. Therefore, the need to have emergency medical response capabilities, in addition to mental health services in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emerges here, with comprehensive disaster planning and providing support frameworks targeting communities at risk of earthquakes.
Earthquakes are a climate disaster
On the other hand, earthquakes are considered natural disasters, and they interfere with Goal No. (13) of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Climate Action. We do not say that they are directly attributable to climate change, but rather we confirm that they are an existing and ongoing natural threat. Therefore, we call on vulnerable communities - communities that are constantly exposed to the risk of floods, drought and sea level rise - to prepare with plans that can confront the social, economic and environmental impacts of these earthquakes, and to be prepared with warning systems and sound structural engineering.
This is the nature of the 2030 Sustainable Development Plan, and that is its essence, which is based on building the human being and his environment, and confronting the problems and challenges that are increasing everywhere around the world, and on this also “Egypt Vision 2030”, whose axes realistically call for preserving the capabilities of citizens, raising the levels of health services, and implementing early warning plans in various sectors in order to achieve social safety, economic growth and environmental support that preserves natural resources.
Safety Instructions
Among the early warning plans and strategies for confronting earthquake disasters are what are called precautionary measures. When it occurs, a number of safety procedures and instructions must be implemented. Including:
Prepare well
If you live in an area known for earthquakes, you should have a first aid kit.
Inside the building
If you are in a building, stand under the entrance door, away from windows.
Outside the building
Stand away from building, trees, telephone and electrical lines.
In the car
Keep your car away from tunnels and bridges, and do not leave them.
Mental condition
Try to concentrate, and be ready to help the injured.
In this regard,Earth Guardsemphasizes the importance of adopting comprehensive strategies that balance the three dimensions of sustainable development; At the societal level, it is necessary to enhance community awareness and build the capabilities of individuals and local communities to deal with earthquake risks, in a way that ensures their safety and maintains their social cohesion. From an economic standpoint, investments in disaster-resistant infrastructure must be strengthened, which contributes to reducing economic losses and ensuring the continuity of productive activities.
As for the environmental aspect, managing natural resources and implementing land use plans in a sustainable manner helps reduce the environmental impacts of earthquakes. Therefore, joining global and local efforts to ensure the achievement of these dimensions is an imperative necessity to build a safer and more sustainable future for future generations.
