Fuzzy Cognitive Mapping to Uncover Vital Urban Functions and Their Interdependencies for Disaster Recovery

Abstract

Engaging stakeholders in disaster recovery planning helps identify recovery needs accurately and integrates diverse perspectives into planning procedures. This study presents a quali–quantitative participatory method for identifying the urban functions that must be preserved to initiate the recovery process and ensure the rapid restoration of the entire urban system. The method involves evaluating the relative importance of different functions and analyzing their interdependencies through participatory fuzzy cognitive mapping (FCM) with local stakeholders. The inclusion of diverse stakeholders facilitates precise need assessment, fosters dynamic information exchange and promotes innovative, user-centred, bottom–up interventions that better reflect the realities of the affected communities. The approach was tested in a case study conducted in Sanremo, Italy, as part of broader research aimed at developing a decision support system to expedite recovery processes and enhance urban resilience. The participatory FCM session in Sanremo identified essential functions beyond emergency services, including supermarkets, educational services and pharmacies, centred around the temporary shelter function, which emerged as pivotal during the recovery process. A critical analysis of the FCM-based approach highlights its benefits and offers insights for further strengthening participatory planning in disaster recovery.