Towards a climate-resilient built environment: a discussion paper on opportunities and priorities for climate adaptation in the EU

As the topic of a climate-resilient built environment is not specifically encompassed by any single European Union (EU) policy file, this publication argues that consistency between adaptation and buildings policy could be boosted by a European Commission-led EU strategy. Amidst escalating climate impacts and societal challenges, climate adaptation policies in the built environment need to gain prominence if the EU is to advance towards a more resilient society. Current policy responses to the climate crisis focus on mitigation.

While this is an essential aim, it nevertheless fails to address the vulnerabilities of buildings and infrastructure and the ecological systems they are embedded in, as well as the communities they serve. A climate-resilient built environment should withstand diverse climate impacts, be highly energy-efficient and based on decentralised renewables, and foster adaptability, justice and inclusivity to enhance community well-being. As yet, there is no comprehensive monitoring framework at EU level to ensure that actions taken will adequately address climate risks and achieve a climate-resilient built environment. Based on the European Environment Agency’s indicators for Just Resilience, the European Commission should take the lead, and set out a Just Resilience monitoring framework for Member States.