Terms of reference of
IUGG Union Commission
on Geophysical Risk and Sustainability

 

  • The IUGG Union Commission on Geophysical Risk and Sustainability (short name: Georisk Commission, and acronym, GRC) was established by decision of the IUGG Executive Committee in August 2000.
  • The purpose of the Georisk Commission is to promote scientific studies aimed at reducing risks from natural hazards in an increasingly urbanized world. The GRC shall facilitate communication between scientists through meetings, workshops, publications, websites etc., between scientists and decision makers, and between scientists and the general public.
  • The scope of GRC shall include research and knowledge dissemination on all types of geophysical hazards and their mitigation measures. The hazards shall include but not limited to floods and droughts, landslides and debris flow, earthquakes and tsunami, volcanic eruptions, fires, windstorms, magnetic storms and other natural or human induced environmental hazards. The GRC shall also promote and foster research activities on scientific aspects of geophysical hazards and risk minimization as well their societal impacts.
  • The GRC shall collaborate with geo-risk related research organizations and programs such as of ICSU’s and UN’s.
  • Membership of GRC shall include nominated representatives of IUGG Associations. Each Association may nominate up to 2 members.
  • Term of office of the GRC members shall be 4 years, but may be extended for a further period of not more than 4 years. Replacement of members shall be in a staggered manner in order to ensure efficient and continuous functioning of the Commission.
  • Prior an IUGG General Assembly GRC shall elect from among its members a President, two Vice Presidents (on the basis of geographical location and research expertise), a Secretary and a Treasurer and inform the IUGG President on the results of the election. The list of GRC officers is subject to approval by the IUGG Bureau and their term of office shall start immediately after the IUGG General Assembly.
  • The GRC shall meet during IUGG General Assemblies and at scientific events it organizes.
  • The GRC shall appoint an Advisory Board of no more than five members comprising of experts in the field of natural hazards and risks, past members of the Commission who have had dedicated and exemplary service to the Commission, and representatives from relevant international, regional and national organizations. Their term of office shall be 4 years initially but may be extended for a further period of not more than 4 years. Replacement of members shall be in a staggered manner in order to ensure efficient and continuous functioning of the Board. The Board shall advise on (i) strategy in development of research on natural hazards and risk, and (ii) cooperation between IUGG and other organizations on problems related to natural hazards, risks and sustainability. The Board shall provide guidance and constructive criticisms to help charter the future direction of the commission activities.
  • GRC shall submit annual activity and financial reports to the IUGG Secretary General.
  • GRC shall have access to IUGG fund allocation.
  • GRC shall be reviewed by the Executive Committee of IUGG every 4 years.
  • GRC terminates its activities by the decision of the IUGG Executive Committee.