Transport Infrastructure Vulnerability

Climate change has emerged as one of the most pressing global issues, with significant implications for our planet’s ecosystems, societies, and economies. The increasing impacts of climate change force infrastructure investments to factor in any potential acute or chronic climate risk that might impact the infrastructure. Among its many consequences, the rise in sea levels stands out as a key concern. This phenomenon, driven primarily by the melting of glaciers and the thermal expansion of seawater, poses profound risks to coastal areas worldwide. The challenge lies in understanding the intricate relationship between climate change phenomena, such as rising sea levels, and the vulnerability of infrastructure to these changes. Effective strategies for mitigation and adaptation are crucial to address the escalating challenges posed by climate change, requiring a comprehensive assessment of how these global shifts affect infrastructure resilience and sustainability.

Combining EO data, weather data and climate models to analyse past climate events or assess future risks caused by natural hazards is essential to inform risk management and mitigation measures at scale. For example, assessing and managing risks like floods and landslides, especially for transportation infrastructure, as the backbone of economic and social life. Informed decisions on risk management and large-scale mitigation can be made using these tools. Coastal areas, including fishing ports, are particularly vulnerable to tidal floods and sea level rise, necessitating targeted adaptation strategies.