From Compounding Hazards to Collective Resilience: Community-University Partnerships for Disaster Response in Puerto Rico’s FEW Systems

Abstract (English)

Amid rising disasters, climate change and neglect of social services heighten extreme events and reveals vulnerabilities in food, energy, and water (FEW) systems. Marginalized communities are notably affected, highlighting the need for new approaches to disaster risk reduction and community resilience. This paper explores insights from a community-university partnership in western Puerto Rico on food, energy, and water insecurity from compounding hazards between 2017-2021. By working with local leaders, we examine how community expertise informs preparedness and response strategies.Drawing from disaster anthropology and public health we reflect on the challenges and opportunities to advance research and action on community resilience.