Living in Hazardous Areas (Edexcel IGCSE Geography): Revision Note
Exam code: 4GE1
Reasons for living in hazardous regions
Billions of people live in areas which are vulnerable to natural events such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tropical cyclones
It is the interaction between the natural event, humans and the human environment that makes the event a hazard
There are several reasons why people continue to live in these areas:
A lack of education and information means that people are not aware of the risks
People believe that the advantages of living in the area outweigh the disadvantages
Advantages include:
fertile soil in volcanic areas
geothermal energy
access to water
trade
jobs
tourism
People are too poor to move away; they have little choice about where they live
People were born in an area and have friends/family there so do not want to move
If disasters do not happen frequently, people may believe that they are unlikely to be affected
Historically settlements have developed in areas on the coast and near rivers which are vulnerable to hazards
Worked Example
Suggest two reasons why people live in areas which are vulnerable to natural hazards
[4 marks]
Identify the command word
The command word is 'suggest'
The focus of the question is 'areas which are vulnerable to natural hazards'
When you are asked to give two reasons in a four-mark question, you need to give a reason for one mark and then explain it for the second mark
Answer
Born and brought up there (1) so don't want to leave/emotional attachment (1)
Lack of income (1) cannot afford to move/relocate (1)
The benefits outweigh the risks (1) fertile soil/income from tourism/geothermal energy/minerals (1)
Not aware of the risk (1) so don't consider moving (1)
Personal choice (1) natural beauty, friends/family (1)
Examiner Tips and Tricks
Remember, although housing may be cheaper in areas which are vulnerable to natural hazards, this is not something that you would be awarded marks for in the exam.
Case Study
Mount Vesuvius in Italy
Mount Vesuvius is an active stratovolcano near Naples, Italy
The volcanic soil around Mount Vesuvius is very fertile, which makes it an ideal area for farming. The area offers business and tourism opportunities.
Also, the long time between major eruptions in the area gives people a false sense of security, and many people can't afford to relocate
Highly fertile soil: In an area with little flat, arable land, weathered volcanic material produces nutrient-rich, productive soil that is necessary for growing crops like grapes, fruits, and olives
Economic opportunities: The area attracts tourism, and the proximity to Naples provides jobs, making it an economic hub rather than just a hazard zone
Perception of safety: Because the last eruption occurred in 1944, many residents believe the risk is low, relying on modern monitoring technologies for advance warning
Cultural and financial issues: A lot of people have strong ties to the land through their ancestors, and others can't afford to leave the area
Even though there is a high chance of another eruption, many people think that the short-term benefits of farming and jobs are more important than the long-term danger they see
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