Concept of Risk Flashcards
How is “risk” defined in the context of this course?
Risk = Probability (event) X Loss (adverse consequences)
What is the consequence of the “Levee effect” on hydrological risk?
Probability of flooding goes down but the magnitude of the consequences goes up. Presumably because people think a region is safer when there is a levee there, so they build there and hence there is more stuff to be destroyed when the fat flood which goes over the levee does come in
Name some risks related to water resources (4)
Floods
Water scarcity
Inadequate water supply and sanitation
Ecosystem degradation and pollution
Why is it important to pay attention to gender issues and initiatives for improved water management in the developing countries?
Point 3 of the Dublin Principles;
Women play a central role in the provision, management and safeguarding of water. There are gender inequalities, particularly in LEDCs with how water is collected etc.
Why is groundwater so important?
Groundwater makes up about
30% of the world’s freshwater
resources.
The rivers and lakes are
supported by groundwater
Almost all the water used for drinking, agriculture, and industry is either groundwater or has been groundwater at some point in the water cycle.
Written definition of risk?
Risk is the composite of the impacts of ALL potential events
Definition of hazard?
The likelihood, probability, or chance of a potentially destructive phenomenon
Definition of exposure?
The location, attributes, and values of assets that are important to communities
Definition of vulnerability?
The likelihood that assets will be damaged or destroyed when exposed to a hazard event
