Resilient Building Retrofits: Combating the Climate Crisis

This book explores the why, how, and who should take the lead in revolutionizing buildings in the face of climate and social change. It argues that retrofitting and adaptation of the existing building stock is critical and urgent, and requires a complex, holistic approach that brings all stakeholders together. It stimulates debate within policy, practice, and education circles and sets out a manifesto for action.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 20 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This groundbreaking book seeks to infuse new insight and urgency into the ongoing discussion surrounding the retrofitting of commercial and residential buildings in response to the climate emergency. It delves into the fundamental questions of why, how, and who should take the forefront in revolutionizing buildings to address the pressing challenges of climate and social change.

Recognizing the significant contribution of buildings to carbon emissions, particularly in developed countries with aging building stocks, it is acknowledged that demolishing and rebuilding is not a feasible or desirable solution. Instead, the emphasis lies in retrofitting and adapting the existing building stock to achieve zero carbon emissions. This book elucidates the rationale behind this critical and urgent endeavor, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and holistic approach that brings together all stakeholders, including policy makers, educators, designers, constructors, investors, funders, and occupiers, with respect and understanding.

However, the task of improving buildings within a limited timeframe poses significant challenges. To address these challenges, the book conducts an in-depth analysis of the necessary actions, explores potential strategies for implementation, and presents a manifesto for action. It calls upon all those involved to take decisive action, as the consequences of inaction are dire. This includes policy makers, who must develop and implement policies that promote retrofitting and adaptation; educators, who must incorporate sustainable building practices into curriculum and training programs; designers, who must create innovative and energy-efficient building designs; constructors, who must employ sustainable construction methods; investors, who must prioritize investments in retrofitting projects; funders, who must provide financial support for retrofitting initiatives; and occupiers, who must actively engage in energy-saving practices and advocate for sustainable building practices.

By bringing together authors from diverse disciplines within the built environment, this book fosters a robust debate within policy, practice, and education circles. It serves as a catalyst for action, urging individuals and organizations to take immediate steps to address the climate emergency and create a more sustainable and resilient future. This book is a unique and valuable addition to the literature on the sustainability of existing buildings and their retrofitting, benefiting all stakeholders.

Weight: 580g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367903558