Dear reader

Natural hazards have had a profound impact on the way people live in cities and on the economic structure of societies throughout human history. Many hazards have become disasters, causing loss of life and property through their destructive effects. Each disaster is a stark reminder of the urgent need to build a more resilient and sustainable future. In the current century, with its rapidly changing climatic conditions and increasing rates of urbanisation, this need is more pressing than ever.

This book, entitled "Hazards and Disaster Resilient Cities", aims to be an important guide for raising disaster awareness and building resilient cities and societies. In 20 chapters, the two-volume book discusses ways to create disaster resilient and sustainable cities from a broad perspective, from education to social dimensions, from engineering services and technological innovation to ecological planning.

Each chapter has been meticulously prepared by academics and practitioners who are experts in their fields, and provides in-depth analysis and practical suggestions on how we can build more resilient cities against the devastating effects of disasters. We believe that this book will appeal to a wide audience, from urban planners to public administrators, academics to students, and will be an important resource for increasing societal resilience.

Let us not forget that making cities and societies more resilient to disasters is not limited to physical infrastructure and technological innovation. It is also a multidimensional process that should be supported by social solidarity, education and awareness-raising activities. As you move through the pages of this book, you will discover every detail of this multidimensional process and better understand how you can strengthen your own contributions.

We would like to emphasise that the contributions of you, our esteemed readers, are of great importance in our journey towards building more resilient, sustainable and liveable cities. In this journey, we believe that together, with inclusive and integrated decision-making mechanisms, we will take steps towards a sustainable and stronger future.

We wish you an enjoyable read,