Managed retreat and relocation in relation to natural hazards in Switzerland

Due to climate change, inhabited areas are increasingly threatened by natural hazards. In Switzerland, hazards such as rockfall, debris flows, avalanches or floods force people to relocate in rare cases, which entails social, financial and legal challenges. This article provides an overview of historical and current relocations in connection with natural hazards in Switzerland and develops a guideline for the decision-making process on suitable measures. It structures the consideration of social, financial, legal and risk-related aspects and should enable decision-makers to consider relocation as an equivalent option and adapt it to local conditions.