Climate Resilient Infrastructure

The effects of climate change are here, and it’s essential to be resilient in the face of them.

In response to a changing climate, we must create technologies and infrastructure improvements that are designed to mitigate and/or withstand the effects.

As climate change continues to worsen, we will see an influx of extreme weather events such as sea-level rise, rising temperatures, wildfires, increased precipitation, etc.

Climate-resilient infrastructure is planned, designed, and built in a way that anticipates, prepares for, and adapts to these conditions. This can include measures such as building sea walls, improving drainage systems, and using more resilient building materials. Climate-resilient infrastructure saves both money and lives.

‍According to MIT, climate resilience has three main aspects: preparation, adaptation, and recovery.

Preparation ensures that our infrastructure is ready for a changing climate. I.e., applying storm shutters, elevating the structure from the ground, fireproofing, etc.

Adaptation is realizing that risks are ever-evolving, and we need agile solutions. I.e., updating building codes, zoning laws, etc.

Recovery refers to how quickly communities and individuals can bounce back. I.e., assessing damages, repairing, and building back stronger.

‍Research from the MIT Concrete Sustainability Hub found that investments in climate-resilient construction can prevent enough damage to pay for themselves in as little as two years in hazard-prone areas. Other studies have concluded that every dollar invested in resilience can save up to $11 in repair costs over time.

Companies such as Climate Robotics, BlocPower, Newmetrix, Arcadis, Adaptation International, StormSensor, Terrafirma, PlanetWatchers, Resilience Intel, and many more are ensuring we’re able to adapt to a changing world.