How can you create flexible infrastructure for changing needs?

2 Adaptive reuse

Another way to create flexible infrastructure is to use adaptive reuse, which means finding new uses for existing buildings, spaces, or materials that are no longer suitable or needed for their original purpose. Adaptive reuse can extend the lifespan and value of the infrastructure, while reducing the environmental impact and cost of demolition and construction. For example, old factories, warehouses, or churches can be transformed into offices, apartments, or cultural venues, while abandoned railways, canals, or bridges can be converted into bike paths, parks, or public art.

3 Smart technology

A third way to create flexible infrastructure is to use smart technology, which means integrating sensors, data, and communication networks into the infrastructure to monitor, control, and optimize its performance and efficiency. Smart technology can enable the infrastructure to adapt to real-time conditions and feedback, as well as to learn from past patterns and trends. For example, smart traffic lights can adjust their timing and coordination to reduce congestion and emissions, while smart water meters can detect leaks and regulate water consumption.

4 Participatory planning

A fourth way to create flexible infrastructure is to use participatory planning, which means involving the users and stakeholders of the infrastructure in its design and management. Participatory planning can enhance the responsiveness and suitability of the infrastructure to the needs and expectations of the people who use it, as well as to the social and cultural context of the place where it is located. For example, participatory budgeting can allow citizens to decide how to allocate public funds for infrastructure projects, while co-design workshops can enable communities to shape the features and functions of their public spaces.

5 Resilient thinking

A fifth way to create flexible infrastructure is to use resilient thinking, which means anticipating and preparing for potential shocks and stresses that could affect the infrastructure and its users. Resilient thinking can improve the ability of the infrastructure to withstand, recover from, and adapt to disruptions and challenges, such as natural disasters, climate change, or social conflicts. For example, resilient infrastructure can incorporate redundancy, diversity, and modularity to reduce the risk of failure and increase the options for recovery, while also fostering collaboration, innovation, and learning among the actors involved.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?