This book is primarily intended for academics, policy makers, professionals, and practitioners in hazards reduction activities who look for a better understanding of the complex and dynamic aspects of nature and society. This topic is a well established issue among most sectors of our society since the costs, both human and socioeconomic, of extreme environmental events have been rising astronomically, and significant vulnerabilities exist throughout the world. Without effective prevention and mitigation, these costs are likely to continue to increase, enhancing the uncertainty of societal progress. The knowledge and information embodied in this volume will be of immense benefit to anyone working in this field.

Reprinted from: Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies for Global Change, Vol. 10, No. 3, 2005