The connection between long-term and short-term risk management strategies: examples from land-use planning and emergency management in four European case studies

Abstract

Abstract. The need for continuous adaptation to complex and unforeseen events requires enhancing the links between planning and preparedness phases to reduce future risks in the most efficient way. In this context, the legal-administrative and cultural context has to be taken into account. This is why four case study areas of the CHANGES1 project (Nehoiu Valley in Romania, Ubaye Valley in France, Val Canale in Italy, and Wieprzówka catchment in Poland) serve as examples to highlight currently implemented risk management strategies for land-use planning and emergency preparedness. The strategies described in this paper were identified by means of exploratory and informal interviews in each study site. Results reveal that a dearth or, in very few cases, a weak link exists between spatial planners and emergency managers. Management strategies could benefit from formally intensifying coordination and cooperation between emergency services and spatial planning authorities. Moreover, limited financial funds urge for a more efficient use of resources and better coordination towards long-term activities. The research indicates potential benefits to establishing or, in some cases, strengthening this link and provides suggestions for further development in the form of information and decision support systems as a key connection point. Aside from the existent information systems for emergency management, it was found that a common platform, which integrates involvement of these and other relevant actors could enhance this connection and address expressed stakeholder needs. 1 Marie Curie ITN CHANGES – Changing Hydro-meteorological Risks as Analyzed by a New Generation of European Scientists.

Prototype of a Web-based Participative Decision Support Platform in Natural Hazards and Risk Management

“…There was a debate regarding the efficacy of hydraulic works versus flood management measures to increase resilience by incorporating local people and their knowledge in the decision making process [37]. Furthermore, there were overriding political interests in maintaining occupation of the valley in the face of continuous outmigration, which resulted in a preference for big structural mitigation measures to be implemented as an effective option in order to prevent relocation of few houses in the area [38]. …”