Adapting infrastructure to climate change

Left unmanaged, climate change may significantly affect the operational, financial, environmental and social performance of large fixed assets and infrastructure. This paper presents the contribution of the European Union to climate change adaptation in selected infrastructure sectors. It covers energy and transport infrastructure as well as buildings in the EU – sectors which were given priority for adaptation policy mainstreaming in the 2009 White Paper on Climate Change Adaptation.
The paper also discusses the instruments and financing provided by the European Union to make Europe's infrastructure more climate resilient. Adapting infrastructure to climate change is a fast-growing, global business in which European know-how and experience could open up new economic opportunities. By promoting public and private investment in climate-resilient buildings and in smart, upgraded and fully interconnected transport and energy infrastructure, EU climate action makes an important contribution to delivering growth and jobs in Europe. In line with Europe 2020, it simultaneously contributes to progress towards more sustainable transport and a secure and clean energy market.