Qué factores influyen en la percepción del riesgo en un entorno urbano? Caso de estudio de la ciudad de Loja, Ecuador

Abstract

Abstract: Rapid and inappropriate urbanization and unsustainable management of natural resources have contributed to increased vulnerability in urban environments. The perception of natural risk is an essential component of risk management and communication. This study analyzes the factors influencing the perception of natural risk in the city of Loja, Ecuador, focusing on sociodemographic variables and hazard proximity. For this purpose, a geo-referenced survey based on qualitative risk indicators was randomly applied in the census sectors of the urban area. The data were analyzed by means of a bivariate description and the creation of a composite index of risk perception indicators. The results showed that sociodemographic characteristics influence risk perception trends, while there was no consistent pattern with respect to proximity to sources of danger. Risk perception was most strongly related to gender, age and education and least strongly related to income. The findings contribute to understanding natural risk perception and its spatial dynamics from a qualitative perspective.