Preparing for the future: the impact of climate change on the civil engineering profession

Abstract

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change uses an average global temperature in its analysis of a warming Earth – yet in reality the world has many widely different regional environments. This paper proposes that the Köppen–Geiger regional zoning system would be a practical basis for civil engineers to progress towards net zero greenhouse gas emissions. The effect of climate change on the profession is discussed along with reducing the emissions of construction materials, such as by using more wood and other organic materials. The impact on civil engineering design is considered with reference to water resources projects, plus how this needs to be included in teaching.