| Guest opinion
In the aftermath of the 2011 Japanese tsunami, which claimed more than 19,000 lives, entire cities were destroyed and critical infrastructure – including roads, energy systems and communications networks – was paralyzed. The Japanese response went beyond simple reconstruction; they have reimagined their communities with resilience in mind, moving cities further inland and creating natural buffers along the coastline.
This approach serves as a powerful example for Western North Carolina, where several communities were devastated by Tropical Storm Helene. We too now have the choice to not only rebuild as we were, but smarter, stronger and better prepared for the future.
The first lesson from the Japanese experience is the importance of where we build. For too long, floodplains and low-lying areas in our region have been developed for affordability or convenience, but Helene has shown us that these areas are becoming increasingly vulnerable. We can turn this tragedy into an opportunity to rethink land use and zoning policies across WNC, and steer development away from high-risk flood zones. By converting flood-prone areas into parks, greenways or natural flood buffers, we can create beautiful green spaces that protect our communities while improving residents’ quality of life.
Equally crucial is the way we rebuild. Japan’s reconstructed cities are designed to better withstand future disasters, and our region can take a similar approach. Rebuilding in WNC must prioritize green, renewable construction that makes our communities more resilient. Energy efficiency must come first. Regional building codes should encourage or require sustainable practices such as solar energy, green roofs and permeable surfaces that absorb rainwater. Switching to efficient and renewable fuel sources such as solar energy and other sustainable options can help us move towards net-zero emissions, reducing long-term costs and environmental impact.
By using sustainable materials, we minimize our collective carbon footprint and create structures that are better equipped to withstand future storms. Imagine WNC cities known not only for their natural beauty, but also for their groundbreaking green buildings – a testament to our commitment to a sustainable future.
We also need to consider who we are rebuilding for. Even before Helene, many communities faced affordable housing challenges, and the storm has only increased this need. It is critical to rebuild resilient, affordable communities that welcome people of all income levels. Envision neighborhoods that are dense, walkable and affordable, reducing our region’s dependence on cars while connecting residents to essential services. By promoting mixed-use developments, we can foster spaces where homes, businesses and community centers coexist, making our communities vibrant and accessible to all.
But resilience means more than housing; it also means supporting the local economy that makes WNC unique. This includes affordable workplaces for artists, small businesses and entrepreneurs. These small businesses and creatives are essential to our region’s culture and economy, but are also vulnerable to the effects of disasters. Creating affordable, accessible spaces for them allows the spirit of our community to flourish, even in difficult times.
For this vision to succeed, a coordinated joint effort is essential. Rebuilding a resilient WNC will require partnerships between community members, businesses, nonprofits and local governments. Local organizations bring valuable knowledge about the unique needs of our region, while businesses can support sustainable practices and provide resources. Together with government leadership and community involvement, we can create a comprehensive rebuilding strategy that reflects the values of all residents.
Helene highlighted the power of our WNC community. Neighbors helped neighbors, volunteers supported each other and local organizations took action to provide assistance. Let us channel this compassion into a joint reconstruction process that supports each other and builds a region better prepared for the future.
WNC’s recovery is more than an exercise in rebuilding; it’s an opportunity to set an example. True resilience is about designing communities that can withstand climate challenges. By thinking about where, how and for whom we build, our region can become a national model for climate adaptation and sustainability.
Together we can transform the devastation of Tropical Storm Helene into an opportunity to reimagine and revitalize. Western North Carolina can emerge from this crisis as a resilient community that honors its heritage, meets the needs of today, and provides hope for tomorrow. Let us seize this moment to rise stronger, smarter and better prepared for the challenges ahead.
David Huff is an award-winning conservation photographer who serves as the communications councilor for the Carolina Mountain Club and oversees a 2.5-mile section of the Appalachian Trail. He is a brand ambassador for Fjällräven and founder and chairman of the George Masa Foundation. For more information, visit www.davidhuffcreative.com.