Environmental Risks between Conceptualization and Action (Introduction)

Abstract

Changes in the contemporary world materialized in particular through population growth and mobility, urbanization, and economic expansion also result in an increased exposure of people and assets to extreme events and impose, implicitly, adequate management of induced risks. The occurrence of natural and anthropogenic risk phenomena, known as hazards, puts a heavy tribute on disaster-sensitive human communities regardless of their level of development. The magnitude of the disasters and their increasing frequency and severity imply the need for their approach by the entire world community and for global action. Knowledge of risks becomes a sine qua condition in carrying out impact studies, risk prevention plans, spatial planning plans, and, in general, a condition for effective management of natural resources or sustainable development projects.

Keywords: risk analysis; natural hazards; vulnerability; climate change; pollution; sustainability

JEL Classification: R11, R14, R41, R58, Q01, Q15, O18, H23, J88, Q52, Q53, Q54