Uneven Readiness: Measuring Climate Risk and Societal Preparedness across OECD and Key Partner Countries (2002-2022)

Abstract

Understanding climate risk requires an integrated perspective that links environmental hazards to societal preparedness. This study develops the Climate Risk and Societal Preparedness Index (CRISP) to measure vulnerability and readiness across 36 countries-31 OECD members and five Key Partners-between 2002 and 2022. A comprehensive and state-of-the-art literature review was conducted to identify the initial set of indicators. Correlation and network analysis methods were then applied to determine the final set of indicators, ensuring internal coherence, reducing redundancy, and strengthening the explanatory power of the index. CRISP distinguishes between climate-related risk (disasters and temperature anomalies) and societal preparedness (economic, demographic, institutional, and infrastructural factors), whereas most existing indices combine these dimensions within a single composite measure. The index enhances cross-national and longitudinal comparability. Results reveal diverse vulnerability patterns: Switzerland, Germany, and the Netherlands combine low risk with strong preparedness, while India and South Africa show persistent adaptive gaps. The United States and China face high risks but demonstrate comparatively robust preparedness. The findings suggest that cross-country differences in vulnerability are associated with socio-economic and governance conditions rather than exposure alone. CRISP thus provides a decision-support tool to identify weaknesses, prioritize interventions, and strengthen resilience in national climate strategies.