The Hard Hat Professional

Sustainable infrastructure planning and construction in South Africa need to account for the immediate effects of climate change. Future developments must be strong and resilient. The substantial financial commitment required to ensure energy and water security also requires a re-evaluation of infrastructure funding. Stellenbosch University PhD student and Centre for Sustainability Transitions junior researcher Alboricah Rathupetsane says the patterns of climate change have led to an increase in average temperatures in certain regions, accompanied by a decrease in the frequency of rainfall events but an increase in their intensity. In response to this new weather reality, South Africa needs to invest more in infrastructure that is resilient to climate change. This includes designing infrastructure that takes into account factors such as higher temperatures and heavier rainfall. Areas experiencing increased flooding, such as KwaZulu-Natal, require robust drainage systems and stormwater