Preface [Climate change adaptation in the built environment : transdisciplinary and innovative learning]

Abstract

Climate change is one of the greatest threats facing humanity and it is affecting every country on every continent. The impact of climate change is particularly pertinent to the built environment in coastal regions given the socioeconomic importance of this area and the expected impacts related to rising sea levels, increased frequency of extreme events, and changes in coastal dynamics, in addition to changes in temperature or precipitation. The impacts of changing climatic conditions and associated disaster risks affect the human development agenda and eradicate years of socioeconomic growth. Accordingly, it is important to better understand the impacts of climate change and the existing capacities to develop tangible climate adaptation measures for the built environment in coastal regions. In addressing this adaptation challenge, the initiation needs to address how we approach urban planning and design, construct, and retrofit the built environment. Climate change adaptation in the coastal built environment goes beyond addressing physical and environmental needs. It must also address socio-cultural, institutional, human capital, and economic perspectives to promote efficient climate change adaptation measures.