Introduction. Climate change continues to increase the frequency and intensity of natural hazards. The Alpine area of Italy is particularly vulnerable due to the interaction between rising temperatures, a changing precipitation regime, and the intensification of extreme events and geomorphological processes (e.g., glacier melting and permafrost thawing). Several studies have highlighted how socio-psychological factors may impact individuals' motivation to protect themselves and adopt mitigation measures. However, findings are contradictory overall, showing positive, negative, or non-significant correlations between risk perception, knowledge, and preparedness.
Purpose. This study is part of broader research on risk communication in the Aosta Valley, financed by the Interreg ALCOTRA 14-20 European Cooperation Program. This research aims to assess the institutional communication system on environmental risks and its effectiveness in terms of citizens' awareness. A specific aim of the present study is to examine the role of place attachment in preparedness with the mediation of risk perception, risk knowledge, and coping strategies.
Method. A total of 457 (58% female) residents of Valle d'Aosta responded to an online questionnaire. In addition to socio-demographic variables, the main variables measured were sources of information, trust in these sources, risk perception and related concern, past exposure to natural hazards firsthand or witnessed, place attachment, coping strategies, and preparedness actions.
Results. Correlations show that previous experiences are positively associated with knowledge and preparedness. However, previous experience is unrelated to place attachment or coping strategies. Place attachment, on the other hand, exhibits moderate positive correlations with risk perception and knowledge. A structural equation model shows that place attachment influences preparedness through perception of hazards probability and problem-focused coping strategies, which are in turn increased by knowledge of possible risks.
Conclusions. Communication strategies should focus on providing credible information about potential risks and detailing appropriate coping strategies that address specific problems.