International Conference on Debris-Flow hazard Mitigation at the Politecnico
The 8th International Conference on Debris-Flow Hazard Mitigation (DFHM8) just ended on Thursday, June 29. Four days of discussion on a topic of relevance in the current climate transition scenario; an opportunity for debate that was attended by some 250 participants from 22 different countries for a rich program of keynotes, oral and poster presentations.
The conference, which took place in the Aula Magna of the Politecnico, was organised by Professor Marina Pirulli from the Department of Structural, Building and Geotechnical Engineering-DISEG, assisted by Dr Alessandro Leonardi from the University of Sheffield (formerly affiliated with the Politecnico) and Dr Federico Vagnon from the Department of Environmental, Land and Infrastructure Engineering-DIATI.
The conference focused on the latest research developments in debris flow hazard mitigation, divided into seven thematic sessions: processes and mechanics, experiments and numerical modeling, monitoring, detection and warning, the role of disturbance, case studies and hazard assessment, engineering mitigation and needs of end-users. Some participants were able to enrich the conference experience through two technical visits to Piedmont (Susa Valley) and Aosta Valley, respectively.
The objectives of the event included strengthening past relationships and building new collaborations to have a lasting impact on understanding and mitigating debris flow hazards. It also set the stage for pushing the boundaries of scientific research, technological innovation and policy development to ensure the safety and well-being of communities vulnerable to such hazards.
The 9th edition of this conference series will be held in four years in South Korea and will surely once again feature the Politecnico di Torino as one of the key players.