Analysis, perception and communication of coastal flood risks: examining objective and subjective risk assessment

Recent hazards have demonstrated the catastrophic potential of coastal floods worldwide. Expectations regarding climate change (sea level rise) and economic development (coastal urbanization) further underline the need to study these risks. While flood risks have been predominantly approached from a technical, objective perspective, recent years have witnessed a growing concern to consider subjective aspects of these risks as well. This dissertation examined both approaches through literature reviews and analyses. In addition, insights are acquired to improve flood risk communication. Area of study has been the Belgian coast, which is on the verge of improving its defence structures to assure protection against future storm surges