Volcanic Island: from Hazard Assessment to Risk Mitigation
© Geological Society of London
Living near active volcanism offers both benefits and profound challenges. Volcanic Island: from Hazard Assessment to Risk Mitigation brings together recent research to explore how these issues can be better understood and managed, particularly in island settings where communities often face heightened vulnerability.
This Geological Society of London Special Publication collates nine research papers that are structured into three thematic sections: Multidisciplinary Approaches to Understanding Volcanic Islands, Tsunamis from Volcanic Environments, and Volcanoes and Society. The volume highlights the importance of integrating geological, geophysical, and social science perspectives to inform hazard assessment and risk reduction. Its editors have balanced technical depth with practical applications, making this book an invaluable resource for practitioners and researchers in volcanology, risk and disaster management, and related fields.
The first section emphasises integrating disciplines and methodologies to understand volcanic island systems, with case examples from the Italian islands of Ischia and Stromboli, as well as the Hawaiian volcano Kilauea. The second section delves into the generation and impact of tsunamis caused by volcanic activity, discussing mechanisms such flank collapse and landslides taking place on the aforementioned islands. The final section addresses the interaction between volcanoes and society, examining community preparedness through emergency planning, public awareness and perceptions of volcanic risks, and effective communication strategies – all brought to life through fascinating case studies, including that of Furnas Village on São Miguel Island, Azores, where the population live within an active caldera. Undoubtedly, it is this section that underscores the importance of involving local communities in risk mitigation efforts and effective policymaking to reduce vulnerability.
As expected for a Special Publication, the volume is predominantly aimed at specialists and advanced students, presuming a strong background knowledge in geoscience or related fields. However, the clarity of writing in the chosen articles and comprehensive introductory section from the editors also makes it reasonably accessible for motivated undergraduates.
Overall, the book is a valuable resource that successfully bridges theoretical research and real-world applications, offering crucial insights for academics, professionals, policymakers, and students interested in volcanic risk mitigation.
Reviewed by Kane Coxon
DETAILS
By: E. Marotta, L.D’Auria, F. Zaniboni and R. Nave (2024). Geological Society of London, 176 pp. (hbk)
ISBN: 9781786205650
Price: £100 www.geolsoc.org.uk
