Engaging architects and engineers in climate adaptation

image of a building under construction

Project Summary

Architects and engineers typically rely on historical weather data when designing new structures. With our changing climate, historical data can misrepresent the range, frequency, and intensity of current and future weather conditions which our built environment must be able to withstand. Working with the national design firm HGA, MCAP completed a report documenting the gap between climate science and current architectural and engineering standards. We are now working with HGA and the Center for Sustainable Building Research to develop new standards for climate resilient buildings which will be incorporated into Minnesota’s B3 guidance for sustainable design.

Project Partners

HGA 

Center for Sustainable Building Research

Reports and Publications

Climate Forward: How Climate Projections Are(n’t) Used to Inform Design