From Single Hazards to Multi-Hazards and Systemic Risks

Traditional single-hazard approaches often fail to capture the full picture of disaster risk. By overlooking multiple hazards and their interdependencies, they underestimate real risk levels and limit the effectiveness of prevention and response measures. Multi-hazard risk assessments therefore aim to identify all relevant hazards, analyse their interactions, and support more robust disaster management. This open access book adopts both a scientific and an operational perspective to examine multi-hazards and systemic risks.

Despite growing recognition of their importance, implementing accurate multi-hazard approaches remains difficult. Diverse hazard characteristics, the absence of standardised terminology, limited data availability and the inherent complexity of risk interactions all pose significant challenges. System-thinking and open-science frameworks offer promising solutions to these limitations. Advances in data-driven, knowledge-driven and physically based modelling techniques now enable improved prediction and simulation of interconnected hazards.

The concept of risk has also shifted from a narrow, hazard-focused perspective to a broader understanding that considers the dynamic interactions between hazards, exposure, vulnerability, and response. As risks become more complex and systemic, a systemic framework is required to transform risk management into an integrated, adaptive and inclusive governance model. Effective risk communication strategies are needed to address complex risks and multiple crises. Such strategies should foster relationships with communities, encourage culturally sensitive dialogue and involve various stakeholders in decision-making processes. This will enhance resilience and ensure appropriate responses during crises.

Thus, this book evaluates multi-hazard and systemic risk approaches that reflect the complexity of today s interconnected world. It explores ways forward for the EU s Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC) to better anticipate shifting risk landscapes. And in addition, it enhances public trust and engagement by presenting improved communication strategies and behavioral insights, including the use of serious games as powerful tools.