Title: Design of Appropriately Constructed Facilities to Cope with Global Warming

Author(s): Theodore W. Bremner

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 289

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 1-7

Keywords: constructed facilities, global warming, housing, rising sea level, structures

DOI: 10.14359/51684257

Date: 9/14/2012

Abstract:
The construction industry has been effective in reducing its contribution to global warming particularly in the production of construction materials. Unfortunately this is not true to the same extent in the design of appropriately constructed facilities to cope with global warming. It was fortuitous that steps taken to stem the release of greenhouse gases in the production of sustainable construction materials also resulted in a significant and immediate reduction in the cost of production. However, this economic driver is not operative in the design of constructed facilities. Consequently, departing from a rigid adherence to linear elements to the more economical use of plate and surface components, as well as the use of advanced materials, deserve greater attention. Such changes are recommended, the most important one being the quest for economical housing for masses of people currently needing to relocate as a result of weather extremes created by global warming. Problems associated with rising sea levels, scarcity of potable water and loss of soil productivity are consequences of global warming. These are the driving forces behind the need of people to relocate which in turn is generating the impending need for infrastructure. Solutions exist for these problems, but worldwide economic conditions will influence their resolution unduly unless more energy efficient facilities can be constructed.