Megistos Kouros

Although seismic hazard in North-Western European countries like Belgium, Germany and the UK is lower than in countries as Italy, Greece and France, significant seismic events can occur and their direct effects on the building stock as well as the associated socio-economical impact could be important. This particular risk must therefore be carefully considered. An optimal balance between the effective risk and the cost of preventive measures has to be found.

This book contains contributions presented at the international colloquium "Seismic Risk 2008 – Earthquakes in North-Western Europe" organised in Liège on 11 and 12 September 2008 by the Belgian Seismic Group (BeSeiG). This colloquium provided a very interesting opportunity for seismologists, engineers and architects to discuss the specific problems in regions characterised by low to moderate seismic risks.