The major focus of GLO-DISNET will be to promote research and training activities as well as information flow within the general framework of the network. As an autonomous, non-governmental body, UNU provides an ideal platform to launch global projects and provide a global network base for these projects and provide a global network base for these purposes. The strategic partnership with WSSI, INCEDE and Stanford University is critical to achieve the objectives outlined in the previous section. WSSI is a global professional organization providing earthquake engineering expertise; INCEDE has been working on multi-hazard mitigation for two years and has already a network of interested members; and Stanford University provides a strong global intellectual presence and contacts.

Studies initiated by UNU will utilize an "ecosystems" approach. An ecosystems approach entails utilizing a holistic, multidisciplinary, multi-faceted approach to the study of natural disaster abatement. Further, it is intended that training and capacity building make up a significant portion of the activities undertaken under GLO-DISNET.