Introduction

The rise of humanity is inextricably linked with the ability to harness nature-whether by agriculture, hunting, exploration, settlement, or civilization. But the natural world is not so easily yoked. Nature is powerful. Despite all the efforts of humanity, the Earth remains a dynamic planet. As such, dynamic events like earthquakes, tsunamis, storms, hurricanes, wildfires, and drought are visited upon us time and again. Indeed, catastrophe is a part of human history, filled with surprise episodes that become historical endnotes such as the Pompeii eruptions and the 1755 tidal wave that hit Lisbon. As unsettled as we are by catastrophes, humans understandably attempt to respond in an effort to reduce human suffering and environmental loss. Legal frameworks help coordinate such responses. Increasingly, collaborative efforts are undertaken by state and non-state actors to address pre- and post-catastrophe conditions. Some of these have led to the creation or revision of national law; others have resulted in sui generis international frameworks. Both have profound implications for the evolution of international law as a tool for disaster response.