As defined by UNISDR 2009, a disaster is a serious disruption of the functioning of a community or a society involving widespread human, material, economic or environmental losses and impacts, which exceeds the ability of the affected community or society to cope using its own resources. Climate change is expected to aggravate disaster risks in many regions of the world, and will certainly impact the sustainability of measures implemented. For example, if temperature conditions change and the current building materials or green infrastructure do not cope with different temperature ranges, this could compromise the DRR measures. Eco DRR is an approach where ecosystems (such as mountain forests and mangroves) are systematically harnessed to prevent, mitigate or buffer against natural hazards and the impacts of climate change.

With respect to the Himalayan communities, several steps can be taken to mitigate hazard risks. As outlined below, there are four categories of technologies that can be utilized: Bioretention technologies, pollution abatement technologies, slope stabilisation technologies and flood mitigation technologies. These solutions are to be implemented on a case-by-case basis and will provide many benefits in the long run. Secondly, conservation of mountain forests and vegetation on hillsides is crucial as they reduce the risk of landslides, rock fall, avalanches and soil erosion. Note that adequate vegetation cover and root structures will protect against erosion and increase slope stability by binding together, and this prevents landslides. Forests store water and reduce the runoff after rainfall. This helps to reduce the risk of floods and droughts. Additionally, forests help to stabilize snow which reduces the risk of avalanches. Catchment forests, especially primary forests, reduce the risk of floods by increasing infiltration of rainfall, and delaying peak floodwater flows, except when soils are fully saturated. Forests in watersheds are important for water recharge and purification, drought mitigation and safeguarding drinking water supply.