Impacts of climate change on infrastructure

- Climate change is indeed putting an enormous strain on our infrastructure, and the consequences are becoming increasingly apparent. As the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events continue to rise, our roads, bridges, power lines, and other critical infrastructure are facing unprecedented challenges. One of the most visible ways climate change affects infrastructure is through heavy rainfall and flooding. As warmer temperatures lead to more evaporation, the atmosphere holds more moisture, which increases the frequency and severity of heavy downpours. These intense rain events can quickly overwhelm storm water systems, leading to flooding that can wash away roads, damage bridges, and disrupt transportation networks. For example, in 2017, Hurricane Harvey dumped more than 50 inches of rain on parts of Texas in the United States, causing widespread flooding that damaged more than 200,000 homes and businesses and left many roads and highways unpassable. The total economic loss from the storm was estimated to be 125 billion US dollars. But it's not just flooding that poses a threat to infrastructure. Extreme heat can also have devastating consequences. As temperatures rise, pavement can buckle and deform, creating dangerous driving conditions, and requiring costly repairs. In some cases, extreme heat can even cause roads to melt, which happened in Australia in 2018 when temperatures soared to 47 degrees Celsius, or 117 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme heat can also put a strain on power grids. As demand for air conditioning soars and heat increases, the integrity of power lines are compromised. This can lead to widespread power outages, which happened in California in 2020 when a heatwave led to rolling blackouts that left millions without power. For businesses, investing in resilient infrastructure is not just a matter of social responsibility, it's also a smart business decision. Companies that proactively address the impacts of climate change on their operations can minimize disruption, reduce costs associated with damages and repairs, and ensure continuity of services during extreme weather events. By working collaboratively with governments, communities, and other key stakeholders to build more resilient infrastructure, businesses can also contribute to creating a more sustainable and prosperous future for all. I urge you to take five minutes after this video to look up a few companies like Ford, Disney, and Hewlett-Packard, who've adopted sustainability initiatives to improve their environmental impact.