Adaptation to Sea Level Rise and Extreme Weather Events

Students are introduced to basic aspects of climate change in the context of sea level rise and the intensity and frequency of extreme-weather events, including floods, droughts and wildfires. Climate change adaptations are adjustments in behaviors, plans and projects to reduce society's vulnerability to climate change impacts. Major adaptation approaches relevant to civil and environmental engineers are emphasized. Adaptation measures considered include structural and ecologically-based measures for dealing with sea level rise, storm surges, floods and wildfires. In the context of coastal flooding, consideration is also given to ¿managed retreat¿ (i.e., deliberately altering flood defenses to allow flooding of presently protected areas). Influence of climate change on migration is also considered. Additional measures to reduce vulnerability include emergency preparedness and disaster response management systems. Illustrations of innovative adaptation measures taken by cities around the world are featured. Common barriers to climate change adaptation are also reviewed. Limited enrollment. Students from all departments and programs are welcome, with some admission preference given to students in CEE graduate programs followed by CEE Department seniors.