Anthropogenic circuitations, multidimensional vulnerability, and Transition. Some italian experiences in Risk Management Planning and research perspectives for Adaptive Planning

This study presents a critical analysis of climate risk management planning in urban areas, with a particular focus on significant Italian experiences conducted at the local level as part of the European “Covenant of Mayors” initiative from 2014 to 2023. The review examines the evolution of technical–scientific and political–programmatic guidelines at various levels of governance. The comparative analysis focuses on the strategic and methodological approaches employed in these experiences, with a particular emphasis on their effectiveness in risk mitigation. In this context, the assessment of vulnerability represents a crucial element, as it serves as the primary target for mitigation actions. The study begins with the premise that humans and nature are deeply interdependent, as outlined in the Sixth IPCC Assessment Report. It then turns to the “multidimensional” complexity of vulnerability and, by extension, of risk. The argument is put forth that the tools and methods employed in these local experiences are inadequate for capturing the aforementioned complexity, resulting in risk mitigation strategies that are “weak” and often characterised by isolated, reactive, and uncoordinated actions. The study proposes a research perspective that advocates for a more ambitious strategic-methodological approach with the goal of a deeper transformation of urban systems. This approach would entail a transition process that makes urban areas more sustainable and resilient. Additionally, the study proposes investigating methods of updating and innovating planning tools by adopting an integrated, multi-scalar approach. This would result in the creation of adaptive urban plans that would harmonise social well-being with ecological imperatives and provide policymakers with a more effective means of reconfiguring urban and territorial structures.