Natural disasters and their impact : a methodological review

Abstract

Natural disasters generate profound socio-economic changes in the affected communities. A consistent methodology that allows quantifying its impacts is essential for the implementation of adaptation and mitigation policies. The objective of this work is to provide a systematic review of existing methodologies to quantify the economic impact derived from the occurrence of natural disasters. To do this, a keyword search is conducted in two search engines (Scopus and Science Direct). The results suggest the existence of wide differences between methodological proposals. Consideration of physical damage (direct effect) is more frequent than the impact on productive flows (indirect effect). The destruction of the natural environment (loss of ecosystem services) is not usually included. In the context of global climate change, these findings highlight the importance of having a consistent methodology.