The Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH) helps communities in Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Syria, Pakistan and India to monitor and manage the multiple hazards they face, prepare and respond in case of disaster, and build back better. Our approach brings together scientific analysis and international best practice with deep community engagement.

We start by combining local knowledge and field surveys with geographic information system data and satellite imagery to help communities complete a detailed risk assessment, using it to monitor hazards and develop disaster management and habitat plans. We train a network of nearly 40,000 local volunteers to respond in emergencies. We provide education in planning for and managing disasters. Our volunteers keep communications open, whether clearing roads or maintaining satellite systems. We provide stockpiles and shelters for evacuated residents, and help them to rebuild disaster-resilient infrastructure.

Our ecosystem-based approach to disaster risk reduction helps mitigate climate change and protect the environment. We plant trees and vegetation to protect against avalanche, landslide and flash flood risks, and use local and low-carbon materials for structural mitigation.

Earth Day, celebrated annually on 22 April, is a reminder to protect the environment, restore damaged ecosystems and live a more sustainable life.