The phase of post-disaster relief known as the recovery phase is little researched according to the author, but consistent patterns do emerge in all countries for recovery activities, with the primary difference being where assistance funds originate. In developing nations, funds usually come from international governmental aid and charity groups, while in developed countries, aid comes from national and other governmental treasuries, insurance and private borrowing. The book includes photographs, illustrations, charts, graphs and maps, annotated notes, references and an index. The book is aimed toward governmental policy-makers, insurance professionals, and anyone interested in disaster recovery and mitigation of property. By Paul G. McHenry, Jr. American Association for International Aging, 1996.
Current estimates are that over half the world's population lives in earthen structures.
Although some people may think of adobe in terms of opulent haciendas with arched doorways and deeply set windows, others link adobe to obsolete technology and poverty. This is unfortunate according to the author. As McHenry's photos show, adobe buildings range from sturdy one-room dwellings to elaborate palaces with arches, barrel vaults, domes and towers. The easily readable text explores this versatile sustainable building material through thousands of years, and discusses some of the building methods and styles being used today. McHenry examines how earth has been used as a building material in dry and humid climates, as each necessitates different building styles.