How does climate change influence the design process in civil engineering?

Climate change necessitates climate-adaptive designs because it requires engineers to anticipate and manage the impacts of changing environmental conditions on infrastructure. As weather patterns become more unpredictable—with increases in temperature, more intense storms, rising sea levels, and altered precipitation patterns—civil engineers must integrate these factors into their design processes to ensure safety, durability, and functionality.

This approach involves developing structures that can withstand extreme weather events, reducing vulnerabilities to natural hazards such as flooding or erosion, and incorporating sustainable practices that decrease carbon footprints. By prioritizing climate-adaptive strategies, engineers can create resilient infrastructure that not only meets current needs but also prepares for the future challenges posed by climate change.