The briefing reviews economic losses and fatalities from natural hazards in the EEA-38 countries (32 EEA members plus Western Balkan nations) from 1980 to 2023. Total economic losses exceeded EUR 790 billion, with a significant insurance protection gap, where over 50% of losses were uninsured, and in some cases, this figure reached 90%.
Most fatalities were linked to heatwaves, cold waves, droughts, and wildfires, with considerable variations across countries. The EEA has historically reported on economic and insured losses annually, with the Catastrophe Database (CATDAT) providing comprehensive data over the period.
Countries exhibited significant disparities in total losses, with Germany, Italy, and France leading. Economic losses are generally expressed per square kilometer and per capita, revealing that insurance coverage is alarmingly low in many Western Balkan countries, reflecting minimal private insurance availability.
In terms of fatalities, southern and western Europe accounted for the highest numbers, with heatwaves being particularly deadly. Projections suggest that economic losses will continue to rise due to climate change, exacerbating the insurance gap.
The EEA emphasizes the importance of enhancing climate resilience, advocating for better adaptation strategies and partnerships between public and private sectors. The Climate Resilience Dialogue, initiated by the European Commission, aims to address these issues, focusing on innovative solutions and the need for increased investment in resilience measures.
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