Enhancing climate resilience in the built environment

Taking action on heat risk

We must challenge ourselves to allocate the necessary time and resources to thoroughly assess the impact of future climatic trends on overheating in the buildings and assets we design and manage. Information from UKCP18 and CIBSE provides an excellent foundation for early lifecycle forecasts, which must then lead to practical and cost-effective actions.

Reducing exposure to flood risk

While flood risk is a significant challenge in our capital city, integrating naturalised solutions in the built environment is increasingly recognised as part of the solution. Research shows that while we excel at considering the biophysical elements of these design approaches, we are less practised in incorporating social and natural capital overlays. We must engage the right specialists early in the development lifecycle.

Understanding cascade climate risks

Cascade (or interdependent) climate risks can be complex and challenging to untangle. However, it is essential to communicate: our work with clients repeatedly demonstrates the immense benefits of engaging and inspiring value chain members to contribute their knowledge and expertise on risks right from the outset.

Government bodies must do more

Investment, commitment, and consistency are critical. Our recently appointed leaders have promised to “create places that increase climate resilience and promote nature recovery.” This vision requires supporting local governments through fiscal and other mechanisms to implement and maintain climate resilience solutions, rather than merely responding to damage.

Education and knowledge sharing is key

We should share our knowledge and experience more freely, celebrating successes openly and using industry-recognised metrics to quantify outcomes. This practice is insufficient in our industry; let’s inspire others on their journeys.

Strategic coordination between key actions and stakeholders

This is particularly important across lifecycle stages. Funding for climate action typically extends only to capital costs and management plans, neglecting operational and maintenance requirements, as well as the end-of-life recovery of physical assets. We must collaborate with a range of partners throughout a project’s full duration to ensure we deliver real value for money.


I welcome your thoughts on these assertions. What other critical thinking and activities are necessary to lead resilient and adaptable action in our industry?