Assessing the Potential for a Comprehensive Community Strategy for the prevention of Natural and Manmade Disasters

The purpose of this study is to provide the Commission with a critical analysis and recommendations which will enable it • to assess the need and potential added-value of a comprehensive Community multi-hazard strategy on disaster prevention within the EU; • to identify the potential basic requirements of such a strategy; and • to suggest possible policy options. The study is based on a desk research exercise, analysis of three case studies of existing Community approaches on prevention (Flood Directive, Green Paper on Climate Adaptation and Seveso II Directive) and on a number of consultations with stakeholders in the field of prevention and disaster risk reduction. The study also draws on the conclusions from the above-mentioned analysis of EU Member State Approaches towards Prevention Policy. The study focuses mainly on natural and technological disasters in the crosscutting area of environment and civil protection, whereas public health emergencies or acts of terrorism have not been addressed as these are already being addressed by other Community initiatives.