The role of social infrastructure in community-based disaster resilience: A case study of the 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake

Social infrastructure plays a critical role in disaster resilience through enhancing social capital. However, empirical evidence linking community-based preparedness activities at social infrastructure to disaster outcomes remains limited. This study examines how Kominkan (community learning centers) in Japan function as social infrastructure to strengthen community disaster resilience through using the 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake as a case study. The disaster claimed 636 lives and damaged more than 165,000 homes. Qualitative research methods, including site visits to five Kominkan and document analysis, were employed. Communities with established disaster preparedness programs integrated into Kominkan activities demonstrated emergency response capabilities. It was found that pre-disaster preparedness activities translated directly into effective emergency response and supported recovery efforts. Kominkan leveraged pre-existing social networks, leadership, and local knowledge to coordinate rescue operations, manage evacuation shelters, and maintain social cohesion during recovery. The study found that creative integration of disaster preparedness into recreational and cultural activities, such as sports festivals and newsletters, sustained community engagement. Furthermore, embedded local knowledge enabled rapid, context-appropriate decision-making. The multi-functional nature of Kominkan—serving educational and cultural purposes during normal times while maintaining disaster readiness—proved essential.