For some coastal communities damaged by flooding, retreating from the shoreline is a better option than rebuilding, argue some scientists in a new research publication.
Global warming and rising sea levels make the concept of rebuilding, even with more stringent codes, a futile effort for areas of high risk, they say. For example, the billions of dollars spent to rebuild the Jersey Shore and the creation of dunes after Superstorm Sandy in 2012 could be wasted resources if sea level rise inundates the coastline again.
The researchers suggest that a “strategic, managed retreat” is not a sign of weakness, but rather the smart option that provides an opportunity to build new communities. The researchers recommend better access to climate-hazard maps so communities can make informed choices about risk. These maps should be updated regularly, they add.
In the U.S., coastal communities are home to nearly 40% of the population.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | May 26, 2021
Proposal to add photovoltaic panels to the R2 Standard for electronics recycling
Hundreds of facilities in 33 countries could begin recycling PVs.
Codes and Standards | May 25, 2021
International Energy Agency lays out roadmap to net zero
Focus is on energy generation, but building efficiency also plays a role.
Codes and Standards | May 24, 2021
Biden Administration will make new investments in building energy efficiency
Focus on grid-interactive buildings; Energy Star expansion; new targets for energy, water reduction.
Codes and Standards | May 20, 2021
Solar panel trade group issues guidelines to rid use of components built with forced labor
Growing concern that PV industry is dependent on work camps in China.
Codes and Standards | May 19, 2021
Smart electric panels can aid transition to renewable energy
Allow customers better control of circuits; utilities can better manage demand.
Codes and Standards | May 18, 2021
Cross-laminated timber performs better than expected in shear test
Tests conducted in support of new criteria for design of CLT diaphragm.
Codes and Standards | May 17, 2021
Latest Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices criticized for not considering bikes, pedestrians
More than a dozen advocacy groups want feds to start over.
Codes and Standards | May 13, 2021
LEED-certified federal buildings don’t use less energy than average
May be due to trade-offs on how score is developed.
Codes and Standards | May 12, 2021
White paper examines how to reduce pathogen transmission in ventilation
Pressure barriers and airflow distribution can be effective in existing buildings.
Codes and Standards | May 11, 2021
Pressure builds on White House to rein in cost of lumber
Spike in prices has added nearly $36,000 to price of average new home.
