Transforming youth engagement in disaster risk management and heritage conservation through adapting the concept of brain re-engineering and reimagination

Agbugba, Ikechi; Mehren, Rainer; Eze, Emmanuel

Transforming youth engagement in disaster risk management and heritage conservation through adapting the concept of brain re-engineering and reimagination

Agbugba, Ikechi, Mehren, Rainer ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0004-9627-8927 and Eze, Emmanuel ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2007-2696 (2025) Transforming youth engagement in disaster risk management and heritage conservation through adapting the concept of brain re-engineering and reimagination. Discover Sustainability, 6 (1). p. 1067.

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Official URL: https://doi.org/10.1007/s43621-025-02070-3

Abstract

The escalating intensity of global disasters and the growing vulnerability of cultural heritage require innovative solutions that actively engage youth as key stakeholders. Despite their potential for creativity, innovation, and technological proficiency, youth remain significantly underrepresented in disaster risk management (DRM) and heritage conservation efforts. This paper introduces the Brain Re-Engineering and Reimagination (BRECR) framework, adapted from its original use in agriculture, as a strategic approach to addressing these gaps and catalyzing youth-led initiatives. The BRECR framework comprises five pillars: perception change, ideation and enterprise, technological solutions, sustainability, and social equity in public policy. We argue that by reshaping societal narratives, fostering youth-driven innovation hubs, integrating advanced technologies, and emphasizing long-term capacity building, we demonstrate how BRECR can bridge critical gaps in policy, education, and practice. This paper proposes actionable strategies for enhancing youth engagement and empowerment, positioning them as leaders in building resilient communities and safeguarding cultural heritage. By reimagining youth as active changemakers, we can harness their creativity and technological expertise to establish inclusive, sustainable, and impactful solutions for future generations.