A comprehensive approach should be developed that take into account the security issue from the conceptual design of any building to its operation (in the case of a critical infrastructure) or use (in the case of households). Cascade failure of interconnected infrastructure assets (installations for energy, transport, water, ICT) due to co-location or hub-functions needs to be avoided. The comparison of different solutions tested should include cost and cost/benefit analyses, and societal implications.

The proposal shall develop an EU methodological guide with recommendations and software tools for adapting building and infrastructure standards and design methodologies taking into account vulnerability induced man-made or natural impacts. The project content shall be explicitly placed in the greater context of urban development strategies focusing on safety and resilience. Furthermore the research proposal shall demonstrate its finding using appropriate case studies and demonstration facilities, including comparative cost and cost/benefit analyses.

The topic will complement Seventh Framework Programme research focusing on impacts of extreme weather on critical infrastructure.

The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU of between €3m and €5m would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately (similar to the FP7 Capability Projects described in the general introduction). Nonetheless, this does not preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.

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