Resilience, in the context of marinas, is the critical capacity to anticipate, withstand, and rapidly recover from potential threats, risks, and adverse events that may compromise safety for people or infrastructure. Marinas, particularly those in coastal areas, face varying degrees of vulnerability to hazards. Their ability to minimise impact depends significantly on the preventive measures integrated during their design phase or through adaptations to existing facilities in response to the evolving climate reality.

Understanding the Risks:

Risks affecting marinas can broadly be categorized into three main types:

• Climatic: These include extreme weather events (EWEs) such as severe storms, coastal phenomena (e.g., destructive waves, tidal disturbances, hurricanes, cyclones, tsunamis), and slower-onset changes like rising sea levels. All these have a direct impact on the entire marina—its infrastructure, equipment, vessels, and people.
• Geological: Derived from the inherent characteristics of the territory, these risks primarily involve seismic movements leading to earthquakes or landslides, and the potential for volcanic eruptions.
• Anthropogenic: Encompassing all risks stemming from human activity, these can range from accidental spills to deliberate acts.

Regardless of their origin, managing these risks involves three distinct phases: Prevention, Response, and Recovery.

Prioritising Prevention: A Strategic Imperative

It is paramount that every marina undertakes a thorough and detailed identification of the primary hazards and risks to which it is exposed. Based on this comprehensive diagnosis, a Risk Reduction and Management Plan should be developed and implemented - if not already in place. This plan must outline specific actions for the gradual enhancement of resilience across all operational areas.

A fundamental principle here is prioritising prevention over reaction. Proactive measures invariably lead to better outcomes and significantly lower costs. For instance, every euro invested in preventive action can save up to 12 euros in the event of a threat materializing without prior mitigation. This economic argument underscores the strategic value of prevention.

Key Actions for Marinas:

To effectively build resilience, marinas should:

• Develop a comprehensive Risk Reduction and Management Plan: This document should detail specific actions for enhancing resilience across all areas, always prioritizing the safety of people, followed by equipment and infrastructure.
• Implement preventive measures: These should be designed to mitigate identified risks, working from a proactive rather than reactive stance.
• Integrate specific indicators: Establish metrics to measure the evolution and effectiveness of resilience projects.
• Conduct awareness campaigns: Educate staff and customers about the main risks and necessary preventive measures. This includes clear signage providing crucial information.
• Recognise continuous improvement: Like sustainability, resilience is an ongoing process, not a final destination. It is a collective duty and responsibility that requires continuous adaptation and enhancement.

The increasing intensity and frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change further underscore the urgency of integrating resilience as a core operational principle. By adopting a preventive mindset, marinas can safeguard their assets, ensure safety, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Resources:

• UN (2015) Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030
• UNDP Climate Change Adaptation (Climate Resilient Infrastructure)
• European Commission – Climate action
• U.S. Climate Resilience Toolkit