PREEMPT

Policy-relevant assessment of socio-economic effects of droughts and floods

The PREEMPT project is a policy-directed assessment exercise to assist the relevant authorities in developing a better understanding of the risks posed by droughts and floods. It does so by collecting data concerning past disasters, filling the knowledge gaps - especially those related to indirect and intangible economic and social losses - and by improving risk assessment methods and approaches in four participating countries: Italy, Spain, Belgium and Germany.

The knowledge compiled and, where needed, improved by this project will be instrumental in supporting several EU policies as well as national efforts to mitigate natural hazard risk. The PREEMPT project will help to build a culture of evidence-based risk prevention practice.

Objectives

1. Collect, harmonise and improve data about the past (2000-2010) hydro-meteorological disasters (droughts and floods) in selected river basins in Germany, Belgium, Spain and Italy,
2. Harmonise practices and methodological approaches for risk assessment, particularly the economic and social effects of disasters, therefore improve the evidence-base for disaster risk prevention,
3. Describe the factors which amplify or attenuate disaster's impact (vulnerability and resilience), and which are of direct importance for practical risk management,
4. Examine the effectiveness of the preventive measures in place, and show potential for improvement,
5. Identify, share and disseminate best practice of disaster impact's assessment, based on the results of EC research projects.

Project partners are: