Virtual Engineering

2011 ◽  
Vol 24 (2) ◽  
pp. 3-22
Author(s):  
Catharina Landström ◽  
Sarah J. Whatmore ◽  
Stuart N. Lane

This paper discusses computer simulation modelling in the context of environmental risk management. Approaching computer simulation as practice, performed in networks of heterogeneous elements, we examine the modelling undertaken by engineering consultants commissioned to provide knowledge about local flood risk to the Environment Agency of England and Wales (EA), the public body responsible for flood risk management. We propose that this simulation modelling is best understood as a form of engineering, work geared to solving the problems of clients. It is also a ‘virtual’ activity, articulating risks and possibilities in the digital space of the computer. We find that this ‘virtual engineering’ is shaped by the demands and protocols of the EA, first, by the establishment of long-term contractual agreements for delivering knowledge and second, by an EA requirement to use particular software packages. Fashioned between long-term contracts and black-boxed software virtual engineering becomes stabilised as ‘the’ way in which knowledge about flood risk in actual localities is generated and, consequently, becomes ‘hard-wired’ into flood risk management in England.

2016 ◽  
Vol 7 ◽  
pp. 04017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kathrina Fritsch ◽  
André Assmann ◽  
Bernd Tyrna

2012 ◽  
Vol 12 (7) ◽  
pp. 2299-2309 ◽  
Author(s):  
R. A. Bradford ◽  
J. J. O'Sullivan ◽  
I. M. van der Craats ◽  
J. Krywkow ◽  
P. Rotko ◽  
...  

Abstract. Public perception of flood risk and flood risk information is often overlooked when developing flood risk management plans. As scientists and the public at large perceive risk in very different ways, flood risk management strategies are known to have failed in the past due to this disconnect between authorities and the public. This paper uses a novel approach in exploring the role of public perception in developing flood risk communication strategies in Europe. Results are presented of extensive quantitative research of 1375 questionnaire responses from thirteen communities at risk across six European countries. The research forms part of two research projects funded under the 2nd ERA-Net CRUE Funding Initiative: URFlood and FREEMAN. Risk perception is conceptualised as a pillar of social resilience, representing an innovative approach to the issue. From this process recommendations are identified for improving flood risk management plans through public participation.


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Faith Ka Shun Chan ◽  
Liang Emlyn Yang ◽  
Gordon Mitchell ◽  
Nigel Wright ◽  
Mingfu Guan ◽  
...  

Abstract. Sustainable flood risk management (SFRM) has become popular since the 1980s. Many governmental and non-governmental organisations have been keen on implementing the SFRM strategies by integrating social, ecological and economic themes into their flood risk management (FRM) practices. However, justifications for SFRM are still embryonic and it is not yet clear whether this concept is influencing the current policies in different countries. This paper reviews the past and present flood management approaches and experiences from flood defence to FRM in four developed countries with the aim of highlighting lessons for developing mega deltas. The paper explored recent strategies such as “Making Space for Water, PPS 25, and NPPF” in the UK; “Room for Rivers” in the Netherlands which was promoted to cope with flooding, integrate FRM with ideas on sustainability, and deliver good FRM practice for next generations. The United States has also established a sound National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and Japan has developed an advanced flood warning and evacuation contingency system to prepare for climatic extremes. These case studies showed some good lessons to achieve long term SFRM direction to deliver flood management practices with social-economic and environmental concerns. Most of developing coastal megacities especially in Asia are still heavily reliant on traditional hard-engineering approach, that may not be enough to mitigate substantial risks due to human (exist huge populations, rapid socio-economic growth, subsidence) and natural (climate change) factors. We understand different countries and cities have their own interpretation on SFRM, but recommend policy makers to adopt “mixed options” towards thinking about long term and sustainability that with social, economic and environmental considerations. 


2008 ◽  
Vol 1 (3) ◽  
pp. 162-172 ◽  
Author(s):  
R.M. Bingley ◽  
F.N. Teferle ◽  
E.J. Orliac ◽  
A.H. Dodson ◽  
S.D.P. Williams ◽  
...  

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