Interdisciplinary research into innovative solutions for climate adaptation in the construction industry

The increase in extreme events as a result of climate change poses new challenges for cities and municipalities. In recent decades, there has been an increase in heavy rainfall, flooding, droughts and heatwaves. The negative consequences of such events are the threat to life and limb of the population, the loss of material, non-material and cultural values, as well as the destruction of natural habitats.

The construction industry must also respond to these challenges: On the one hand, building in a changing climate means minimizing the impact of the chosen constructions, building materials and technical building systems on the local and global environment. The relevant environmental potentials at the building component level include the reduction of the greenhouse potential, the saving of gray energy and the recyclability. At the property level, it is the improvement of the microclimate, rainwater management and the reduction of particulate matter pollution.

On the other hand, the construction industry must take a stronger and more proactive approach to adapting to the consequences of climate change in order to increase the resilience of buildings, infrastructure and engineering structures and meet the expected safety and usage requirements. Similar to climate protection, climate adaptation in the construction industry requires great efforts in research in order to develop innovative processes, applications and products for existing and new buildings.

On the basis of interdisciplinary scientific findings and in close cooperation with its research and industry partners, IBiK develops innovative structural engineering solutions that effectively and sustainably support the adaptation of the built environment to the consequences of climate change.