ThinkHazard! – Giving decision makers access to multi-hazard information for safer projects

Abstract : Building a safer society requires accurate information about natural hazards. Many countries are affected by multiple hazards, which need to be considered carefully in development projects like infrastructure, construction, educational or agricultural programs. When defining programs or planning investments, it is of great importance to be aware of potential natural threats that could adversely affect projects during their lifetime. Considering the impact of climate change, it is also vital to anticipate future evolution of these hazards in a context of changing conditions. One of the major challenges to ensure sustainable development is to engage in disaster and climate proof approaches at early stages of the projects. A step forward this purpose is achieved when decision makers can access to easily understandable and reliable information on hazards as well as recommendations about how to translate this knowledge into appropriate actions for their project. The Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery developed a new hazard screening tool named ThinkHazard! to contribute to bridging the gap between existing scientific knowledge and decision makers " practical need. It consists in an open-source, simple and robust online tool that provides the hazard level at the user " s location for eight widely encountered hazards. The tool also releases first level information on how to cope with hazards in projects " early decisions, and guides the users to other sources of more detailed information about hazards and risk management good practices.