Climate change risks in building - an introduction

It is widely agreed that the world’s climate is changing and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. The UK is not immune to the consequences of global climatic change, as recent extreme weather conditions have shown. Rainfall and flooding have caused significant damage to buildings and transport infrastructure over the past few years. There is little evidence that UK construction companies are implementing or considering adaptation strategies or mitigation measures to reduce these impacts. Construction clients (both public- and private-sector), engineers, contractors and other interest groups will benefit from this up-to-date review of the implications of climate change and the practical guidance it contains on assessing and managing the associated risks, such as ground movement, rain penetration and wind loading.