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Technology and Engineering
- ISSN: 2333-2581
- Modern Environmental Science and Engineering
Perception of Hazard and Climate Risk in the Southeast Region of Brazil: The Case of Study of São Luiz do Paraitinga
Rodrigo Rudge Ramos Ribeiro1 and Ricardo Muscari Scacchetti2
1. Nicolaus Copernicus University, ul. Gagarina 11, 87-100 ToruĊ, Poland
2. Instituto Ekos Brasil, Av. das Nações Unidas 13797, 04794-000 São Paulo, Brazil
Abstract: The aim of the research is identify the main factors that influence the perception of natural hazards in the Southeast Region of Brazil. The risk perception was evaluated by survey during 2013, involving 160 people from two different cities: São Luiz do Paraitinga, recently affected by extreme climate events, and Paranapiacaba, not affected by extreme climate events. The questionnaires assessed general information, such as age, gender and location, the personal impact of natural events and the perception of natural hazards, in particular floods. The correlation between different features and the perception of natural hazards has been tested. The results indicate that the perception of natural hazards is mainly driven by personal previous experience of natural disasters. People who experienced difficulties due to natural disasters such as floods, are more aware of the adaptation actions that should be taken. Despite the fact that natural disasters are local, national actions are needed to direct sufficient funds and knowledge to manage local natural hazards. Risk perception has an important influence on humans' decision-making process. In this light, it is important to bring relevant information about local natural hazards to national and global level in order to streamline the implementation of effective policies.
Key words: perception, climate risk, hazard, survey, São Luiz do Paraitinga
