Geography, specifically scale, has significant impacts in
terms of hazards and vulnerability. Small islands, such as
those found in the Pacific, experience the impacts of their
relatively unique geography and scale in terms of hazards
and vulnerability in at least five ways: 1) Perception and
communication; 2) Impact and escape from impact; 3)
Technology; 4) Recovery; and 5) Socio-environmental
justice. Comparative analysis in these five areas between
the Pacific’s small islands and industrialized continental
regions illuminates differences regarding the way hazards
and vulnerability should be conceptualized in the undertreated
small islands of the world. Lessons from this
analysis will aid in conceptualization of small island
scenarios, as well as lend guidance to those seeking direct
intervention regarding technological and natural hazards.