The effectiveness of emergency preparedness and disaster response plans in mitigating health and environmental risks

Disasters, whether natural or anthropogenic, are posing rising threats to both public health and the environment. It is equally important to mitigate these threats through effective emergency preparedness and disaster response plans (EPDRPs). This study reviews the elements, execution strategies, and outcomes of EPDRPs, focusing on health and environmental safety. Through case studies, empirical evidence, and scholarly literature reviews, best practices and systemic constraints limiting the effective implementation of the plans are examined. The findings justify the need for sustained improvement and flexibility in the face of emerging threats.