This is a summary of the book titled “Future Ready: Your organization’s guide to rethinking climate, resilience and sustainability” written by Alastair MacGregor and Tom Lewis and published by Wiley in 2023. This book is about integrating sustainability and resilience into infrastructure and building projects. They introduce climate science for practitioners and decision makers who grapple with evolving environmental challenges. They recognize the target audience of the book are already aware they need to make changes. Those in the construction industry can support sustainability by adopting innovative technologies and sustainable materials. Those in transportation must prioritize decarbonization. Infrastructure designers must meet urbanization challenges. The authors recommend that they are best served by putting systems for measuring, say emissions, setting targets and implementing strategies to meet those targets. Achieving net zero will involve integrating technologies and understanding carbon markets. Leaders can generate support for these activities. Nature-based solutions provide a holistic and cost-effective approach to addressing challenges of sustainability and resilience.

Climate change has highlighted the need for infrastructure designers and urban planners to incorporate sustainability and resilience in their decision-making. The aftermath of Superstorm Sandy exposed vulnerabilities in current systems, prompting policymakers, urban planners, and industry professionals to shift their approaches to risk management and sustainability. The Future Ready framework, developed by WSP, consists of four lenses for considering decisions: climate, society, technology, and resources. The construction industry can support sustainability by adopting innovative technologies and sustainable materials. Buildings contribute nearly 50% of global greenhouse gas emissions and consume significant natural resources. Decision-makers must rethink building practices, focusing on sustainability, resilience, and long-term value. Innovative projects integrating modern technologies and sustainable materials, such as LEED and BREEAM, can provide potential paths forward.

Transportation innovations have advanced global trade and daily life, but they also contribute to 27% of US GHG emissions, exacerbating climate change and increasing infrastructure risks. To build a resilient, sustainable, and equitable future, decision-makers must prioritize decarbonization. The adoption of electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will play a crucial role in reducing emissions, but adoption rates and charging infrastructure currently fall short of climate targets. Infrastructure designers are embracing innovations to meet climate and urbanization challenges, such as clean water infrastructure, green infrastructure, electrification, green hydrogen, and high-voltage direct current networks. Leaders in urban areas can enhance resilience with technological innovations, community-based solutions, and sustainable development. Cities contribute significantly to global GHG emissions and face high climate risks due to their dense populations, so they must adopt comprehensive, integrated approaches to climate resilience that address both mitigation and adaptation. Community-based solutions are essential in resilience efforts, as demonstrated by Staten Island's Living Breakwaters project.

Organizations must establish systems for measuring emissions, set targets, and implement strategies to achieve net-zero emissions. This involves accurately measuring GHG emissions, setting science-based targets, and implementing comprehensive strategies. Scientists set a deadline of 2050 to achieve net-zero emissions, but sooner it is better. Tools like wedge diagrams, gap analyses, backcasting, and life cycle assessment can help manage pathways to net zero. Integrating technologies and understanding carbon markets is crucial for achieving net-zero goals. Energy efficiency measures, industry-specific technologies, and carbon removal offsets can help reduce emissions. Carbon markets use compliance-based and voluntary schemes to encourage reductions of emissions and investments in renewables. Assessment systems and standardized reporting frameworks are necessary to manage climate-related risks. Scenario analysis tools like the American Society of Civil Engineers' Future World Vision can help decision-makers visualize potential climate risks and develop adaptive strategies. Innovation must continue to reach global net-zero targets.

Leaders can support climate-related initiatives by achieving early successes, educating stakeholders, and fostering engagement. They should focus on measurable strategies and address issues such as employee retention and regulatory uncertainties. External engagement is crucial for public sector organizations, involving diverse stakeholders. Nature-based solutions (NbS) offer a cost-effective, adaptive, and sustainable approach to environmental challenges, enhancing infrastructure resilience and community well-being. Examples include the restoration of oyster reefs in Florida, which serve as natural barriers against storm waves, protect infrastructure, and improve water quality. Community engagement is essential for tailoring solutions to local needs and addressing climate challenges.

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