Participatory methodology for risk management planning: A strategy for the implementation of the Tenerife Island Volcanic Emergency Action Plan

Abstract

Volcanic disaster risk reduction and management are key elements required for the territories exposed to this threat to achieve sustainable development. Risk management has evolved considerably, especially through the strengthening of approaches based on vertical and horizontal coordination and cooperation among institutions, organizations, and individuals, multistakeholder participation and public awareness, and the creation of public-private partnerships. Disaster preparedness plays an essential role in reducing impacts, improving response capacity, and ensuring subsequent recovery. In this context, following the eruption of La Palma (Canary Islands) in 2021, this study addresses the challenge of promoting the first island-wide preparedness process to reduce volcanic risk, involving the participation of stakeholders in decision making. The process began in 2022 with the drafting of a strategy for the implementation of the Tenerife Island Volcanic Emergency Action Plan, which was first approved in 2020. The use of the Participatory Action Research approach facilitated the meeting of agents linked to emergency management, and the incorporation of their contributions in drafting, and attempting to promote the transition to a preparedness paradigm defined by participation, involvement of all stakeholders, and improvement of risk governance.2