Towards harmonized reduction of seismic vulnerability

The Adriatic–Ionian region is seismically very active and poses a major challenge for risk mitigation. Each country has developed laws, standards, and techniques to reduce seismic vulnerability. The ADRISEISMIC project created a database of existing regulatory and incentive frameworks, based on a comprehensive study conducted in six countries. The study covered seismic norms, building regulations, urban planning regulations, incentive frameworks, and post-earthquake planning. A comparative matrix was developed in which key parameters, such as year of issuance, references to EU regulations, level of enforcement, mandatory status, target groups, reference period in relation to earthquake occurrence, and consideration of cultural heritage, were analyzed. The database aims to support a harmonized strategy to reduce seismic vulnerability by promoting measures based on common reference standards. This increases safety, improves the built environment, and minimizes risks to people and nature. Particular attention will be paid to historic urban areas that are both vulnerable and rich in cultural heritage. The collected regulatory and incentive framework will serve as a basis for future research to support the identification of good practices and the formulation of customized roadmaps to apply them to reduce seismic vulnerability.