Environmental vulnerability refers to the susceptibility of communities or systems to damage or disruption from environmental hazards. For example, coastal communities may be vulnerable to hurricanes, floods, and sea level rise.
Physical vulnerability refers to the susceptibility of people or infrastructure to harm from physical hazards such as violence, accidents, or natural disasters. For instance, buildings may be vulnerable to earthquakes or terrorist attacks, and people with disabilities may be vulnerable to physical barriers or discrimination.
Social vulnerability refers to the susceptibility of individuals or groups to harm due to their social status or circumstances. This may include marginalized communities, children, women, elderly people, migrants, refugees, or indigenous peoples.
Economic vulnerability refers to the susceptibility of individuals or countries to economic shocks, poverty, or inequality. This may include workers in precarious jobs, countries with high levels of debt or dependence on a single commodity or export, or households without access to basic services or social protection.