Usefulness of conceptual models of risks

Usefulness of conceptual models of risks
A research by UNITED NATIONS UNIVERSITY - INSTITUTE FOR ENVIRONMENT AND HUMAN SECURITY (UNU-EHS)

Visual conceptual models of risks (such as impact chains, fuzzy cognitive maps, causal loop diagrams, etc. - see images below) and associated storylines are increasingly being developed as part of the analysis of risks connected with climate change, extreme events and natural hazards.

They are expected to support risk assessment, offer an entry point for discussion with stakeholders and policy makers, facilitate the identification of risk reduction measures, and help spread awareness of the complexity of risk in all its dimensions. However, little information exists as to whether these expectations are met in the reality of climate and disaster risk research, practice and management.

With this short survey, we aim to collect your opinion about the usefulness of conceptual risk models, to understand how we can create better outputs that can serve both research and policy. The survey will take approximately 5-7 minutes.

By taking the survey, you agree to the following:

I have been informed that, although information obtained in the course of research may be made public, my identity and personally relevant results will not be disclosed.
I understand that I may decline to participate and withdraw from this study at any time.

We thank you for your support and encourage to get in touch with us should you be interested in learning more about our research.
Contacts: cotti@ehs.unu.edu, hagenlocher@ehs.unu.edu

Examples of conceptual models:

Impact chains (EDORA project, unpublished)

Fuzzy cognitive map (from Gómez Martín et al. 2020)