Post-Disaster Recovery in Ageing and Declining Communities: The Great East Japan Disaster of 11 March 2011

Abstract

The Great East Japan Earthquake, tsunami and nuclear meltdown (Great East Japan Disaster) was the most serious emergency to have been faced by the Japanese people since the end of World War II. More than two years have elapsed since the disaster and a clearer picture of the recovery process is now emerging. This article presents a case study of two settlements that experienced the full force of the tsunami by describing and analysing reconstruction planning in a region that was rapidly ageing and shrinking prior to 11 March 2011. Beginning with a description of differences in settlements’ experience of the disaster according to their physical and human geographies, the article then analysis post-disaster reconstruction plans. Although plans show commendable ambition in seeking to rebuild shattered communities, there is a danger of creating unrealistic expectations in settlements where ageing and depopulation processes appear to be accelerating.

Keywords: earthquake; tsunami; nuclear meltdown; Fukushima

JEL Classification: A10, J11, O00