The SOTERIA team from UFZ actively participated in the 14th REKLIM Workshop 2024, organised by the Helmholtz Association (HGF) under the theme “Synthesizing regional aspects of climate change.” This workshop aimed to bridge global climate change discussions with local implementation strategies, particularly focusing on coastal hazards and societal risks. REKLIM aims to bolster resilience to extreme weather events and enhance flood risk management in Germany by analysing regional risk perceptions and promoting nature-based solutions.

Our contribution centred on examining regional disparities in adopting natural hazard insurance in Germany. Our findings revealed varying levels of awareness and preparedness for natural disasters across different regions, influencing the demand for insurance coverage. These findings align with our observations from SOTERIA projects, confirming key drivers of the EU climate insurance gap as EIOPA proposed: lack of data, investments, risk mitigation, and awareness activities. For instance, regions like Baden-Württemberg boast a high insurance penetration rate of 94%, whereas areas like Bremen and Hamburg exhibit much lower penetration levels at 23-25%, respectively.

Cultural attitudes towards risk, past disaster experiences, and local regulations all play significant roles in shaping the adoption of natural hazard insurance. Understanding these regional variations and cultural factors is paramount for developing effective risk management strategies and enhancing resilience in the face of natural disasters. By identifying the factors influencing regional differences in insurance uptake, policymakers and stakeholders can tailor their approaches to better address each region’s specific needs and challenges. This research underscores the importance of considering regional nuances in risk management and insurance strategies to foster more resilient communities amidst climate change and natural hazards.