2019 was the hottest year on record and 2020 is likely to be close. As the heat gave way to thunderstorms and very heavy rainfall, localised flooding followed. These weather patterns are likely to remain with us and will put considerable pressure on our infrastructure systems – transport, water and energy networks will all be subject to additional strains.

A recent National Infrastructure Committee (NIC) report called on the government to “publish resilience standards every five years, and for stress tests for utilities and other infrastructure such as transport.” We know that our rivers are under stress with only about 14% in a good ecological condition. Do we develop in the right places? We increase pressure in the south-east, already challenged in terms of both water scarcity and flooding. Do we properly link development sites with low carbon transport systems?

Adding to our difficulties is the fact that much of our existing infrastructure is outdated and poorly maintained and the NIC called for the government to tackle this issue as a ‘green recovery priority’. This session will look at the priorities for ensuring a more climate-resilient national infrastructure.

How should ‘infrastructure’ respond to our 3 questions on i) what are we learning from our time of lockdown and beyond to change both as individuals and professionals? ii) What do we keep and what do we change in the industry? iii) If we embrace change, what is our vision for the future? If we don’t, what are the risks?

Hear the following presentations from our speakers:

Chair: Clotilde Robin

• The challenge for our infrastructure – what do we need to do and when? – Heleni Pantelidou

• Creating economic stimulus through infrastructure – Dimitri Zenghelis

• Integrating grey, green and blue infrastructure in cities – impact of Covid and messages for the desired future – Kathryn Brown

• Plan the World We Need, a holistic, integrated, and resourced green recovery – Dr Wei Yang

This will be followed by a live Q&A session, where you can pose your questions to our experts.

In partnership with Futurebuild.