How can you make your net zero carbon buildings more resilient to climate change?

1 Assess the risks

The first step to make your net zero carbon buildings more resilient is to assess the potential risks and vulnerabilities that they may face in the future. You can use tools such as climate projections, hazard maps, and scenario planning to identify the most likely and severe threats to your buildings, such as heat waves, floods, storms, droughts, or wildfires. You should also consider how these threats may affect your buildings' performance, functionality, and occupants' health and well-being. By assessing the risks, you can prioritize the most critical areas for improvement and adaptation.

2 Design for flexibility

The second step to make your net zero carbon buildings more resilient is to design them for flexibility and adaptability. This means that your buildings should be able to accommodate different uses, functions, and occupancies over time, as well as respond to changing environmental and social conditions. You can achieve this by using modular, prefabricated, or movable components, as well as incorporating features such as operable windows, adjustable shading, and green roofs. You should also avoid over-specifying or over-sizing your systems and materials, and opt for low-carbon and durable options that can be easily maintained, repaired, or replaced.

3 Enhance redundancy

The third step to make your net zero carbon buildings more resilient is to enhance their redundancy and backup capacity. This means that your buildings should have multiple sources of energy, water, and other essential services, as well as alternative ways of delivering them in case of disruptions or failures. You can achieve this by using renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, wind turbines, or biomass boilers, as well as energy storage devices, such as batteries or thermal masses. You can also use rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, or water-efficient fixtures to reduce your water demand and increase your supply. Additionally, you can use passive design strategies, such as natural ventilation, daylighting, or insulation, to reduce your reliance on mechanical systems and improve your indoor comfort.

4 Engage stakeholders

The fourth step to make your net zero carbon buildings more resilient is to engage your stakeholders and users in the design, operation, and maintenance of your buildings. This means that you should involve them in the risk assessment, decision making, and feedback processes, as well as educate them on the benefits and challenges of net zero carbon and resilient buildings. You should also encourage them to adopt sustainable and resilient behaviors, such as reducing energy and water consumption, recycling waste, or participating in community initiatives. By engaging your stakeholders and users, you can increase their awareness, satisfaction, and loyalty, as well as foster a culture of resilience and collaboration.