Disaster Resilience and Economic Impacts

Natural hazards in Europe are increasing, affecting millions and costing billions annually. Preparedness is crucial to mitigate these impacts. The World Bank and EU study shows that earthquakes and floods significantly impact GDP. Financial preparedness and resilient infrastructure investments are essential. Resilience investments often yield benefits exceeding costs, especially when combined with climate action. Nature-based solutions for flood prevention offer environmental benefits. Europe has a chance to promote green growth aligned with the EU Green Deal, enhancing future disaster preparedness.

What is the average annual cost of natural hazards to EU member states between 1980 and 2020?

• 20 billion euros

• 15 billion euros

• 12 billion euros

• 10 billion euros

What percentage of GDP could damages from extreme events exceed in some EU countries?

• 17%

• 20%

• 15%

• 10%

What is the annual probability of EU countries experiencing an earthquake and flood that exhausts resources?

• 15%

• 5%

• 10%

• 20%

What is essential to combine with finance to effectively mitigate disaster impacts?

• External assistance

• Increased taxation

• Budget reallocations

• Green and resilient infrastructure

What is often underestimated when investing in resilience?

• Financial costs

• Economic benefits

• Environmental risks

• Social impacts

What combination provides the greatest benefits for cost of investment?

• Resilience measures and climate action

• Green infrastructure and social programs

• Increased taxation and borrowing

• Budget reallocations and external assistance

What type of solutions are used in flood prevention to create environmental benefits?

• Infrastructure solutions

• Nature-based solutions

• Technological solutions

• Financial solutions

What opportunity does Europe have in promoting growth according to the report?

• Green and resilient growth

• Technological growth

• Social growth

• Economic growth

What mechanism provides Europe with robust data for modeling future risks?

• International Disaster Response Mechanism

• Global Risk Assessment Mechanism

• European Economic Mechanism

• Union Civil Protection Mechanism

What does the report conclude about investing in disaster resilience?

• It is unnecessary

• It pays off

• It is costly and ineffective

• It should be avoided