People living and working in certain areas face exceptionally high exposure to risks, often as a result of where and how places are built.
Despite this precarious situation, population growth and development continue in risky areas, as social and economic pressures influence more people to live and work in places that potentially put them in harm’s way. Many places experiencing increased risks are attractive places to live otherwise due to factors such as higher economic opportunities or aesthetic beauty, such as cities, coastlines and forest boundaries. For many, the perceived benefits of living in these areas outweigh the risk of catastrophic damages.
