Parameterization Framework and Quantification Approach for Integrated Risk and Resilience Assessments

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Risk Assessment
• Resilience Studies

Background:

• Socioecological systems present complex challenges for risk assessment due to differing natural and political boundaries.
• Traditional risk assessment simplifies complex systems, potentially overlooking crucial interactions.
• Environmental change necessitates integrated approaches that consider social and ecological interdependencies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel framework for systematic parameterization in risk and resilience assessment.
• To deconstruct management objectives into quantifiable metrics for risk and resilience.
• To address the limitations of traditional risk assessment in dynamic, complex systems.

Main Methods:

• Introduction of the Multilevel Risk and Resilience Assessment Parameterization (MRRAP) framework.
• Application of MRRAP paired with a Bayesian Network-Relative Risk Model.
• Proof-of-concept analysis focused on climate change impacts in the Charleston Harbor Watershed.

Main Results:

• The MRRAP framework enables systematic deconstruction of management goals into measurable metrics.
• The integrated approach successfully models complex interactions within socioecological systems.
• The framework moves beyond simplification to embrace system complexity for more representative analysis.

Conclusions:

• The MRRAP framework offers a more comprehensive approach to risk and resilience assessment.
• Embracing system complexity is crucial for effective management of dynamic socioecological systems.
• This approach provides a foundation for improved environmental management strategies under climate change.