As global temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, the construction industry faces a pressing need to adapt. Tom Adlington, sector sales manager of building services and construction at Aggreko, emphasizes that these changes will significantly impact project planning, material costs, and overall productivity.
What Happened
The construction sector is confronting a new reality driven by climate change. Across Europe, rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns are already affecting construction timelines and costs. According to the UK Met Office, summers in the UK are expected to be 4 to 7°C warmer by 2070, with winters 30% wetter compared to 1990. These shifts are causing increased project delays due to equipment breakdowns, worker welfare concerns, and material damage. Extreme weather conditions, such as frequent floods, further exacerbate these challenges.
The Aggreko survey reveals that over 75% of respondents have experienced major project delays due to extreme weather in the past year. Additionally, 35% reported financial penalties resulting from these delays, indicating a direct impact on company margins. The supply chain is also under pressure, as unpredictable weather complicates material transportation, leading to increased costs and further project delays.
What This Means for Your Business
For AECM professionals, these climate-induced changes necessitate a strategic reevaluation of project planning and execution. Companies must consider incorporating more resilient materials and investing in technologies that mitigate weather-related disruptions. The increased costs of materials and potential financial penalties for delays underscore the importance of robust risk management strategies.
Compliance with new regulations, such as those governing working conditions under extreme heat, will become crucial. Countries like Spain have already imposed limits on working hours in high temperatures, and similar regulations could spread across Europe and beyond. Adapting to these changes will be vital for maintaining competitive positioning and ensuring long-term profitability.
What US Operators Should Watch
US operators should closely monitor regulatory developments concerning working conditions in extreme weather. As climate change progresses, similar regulations may emerge in the US, affecting project timelines and labor costs. Keeping abreast of federal funding opportunities for climate adaptation projects can also provide a competitive edge. Additionally, companies should track advancements in construction materials and technologies designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, as these innovations could offer significant ROI advantages.
Source: https://www.globalconstructionreview.com/changing-weather-will-change-the-way-we-build/. Read the original story ->
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