Wedawatta, GSD and Ingirige, MJB 2012, 'Resilience and adaptation of small and medium-sized enterprises to flood risk' , Disaster Prevention and Management . (In Press)

There is a more recent version of this item available.

Preview

PDF - Accepted Version Download (1007kB) | Preview

Abstract

Purpose (mandatory) The UK experienced a number of flood events during the recent years, and the intensity and frequency of such events are forecast to further increase in future due to changing climatic conditions. Accordingly, enhancing the resilience of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs); which form an important segment in a society, to flood risk, has emerged as an important issue. However, SMEs often tend to underestimate the risk of flooding which tends to have a low priority in their business agenda. The paper undertakes an investigation of adaptation to the risk of flooding considering community-level measures, individual-level property protection, and business continuity and resilience measures. Design/methodology/approach (mandatory) Four short case studies were conducted among SMEs to identify their response to flood risk, and what measures have been undertaken to manage the risk of flooding. Findings (mandatory) It was observed that SMEs have implemented different property-level protection measures and generic business continuity/risk management measures, based on their requirements, to achieve a desired level of protection. Practical implications (if applicable) SMEs are likely to positively respond to property-level adaptation following a post-flood situation. It is important that information such as costs/benefits of such measures and different options available are made accessible to SMEs affected by a flood event. Social implications (if applicable) Implementation of property-level adaptation measures will contribute towards the long term adaptation of the existing building stock to changing climatic conditions. Originality/value (mandatory) The paper contributes towards policy making on flood risk adaptation and SME decision making, and informs policy makers and practitioners.

Available Versions of this Item

• Resilience and adaptation of small and medium-sized enterprises to flood risk. (deposited 13 Jan 2012 16:18)[Currently Displayed]
  • Resilience and adaptation of small and medium-sized enterprises to flood risk. (deposited 24 Aug 2012 11:38)

Actions (login required)