Stricter Building Codes Shown to Save Lives During Earthquakes

Experts highlight the critical role of earthquake-resistant construction in reducing fatalities and damage.

Geologists emphasize that buildings, not earthquakes themselves, are the primary cause of fatalities during seismic events.
Countries like Japan and Taiwan, with stringent building codes, experienced significantly fewer casualties and damages from major earthquakes in 2024.
In contrast, inadequate enforcement of construction standards contributed to high death tolls in past disasters, such as the 2023 Turkey-Syria earthquake with over 53,000 fatalities.
Experts argue that investing less than 5% more in construction costs can make buildings far more resistant to earthquake forces, potentially saving thousands of lives.
Public education on earthquake preparedness, as seen in Japan and Taiwan, also plays a key role in mitigating risks and ensuring community safety.