South African Buildings Impact Analysis

South Africa is experiencing climate change impacts across multiple sectors, but little is known about the potential effects on buildings in the region. Increased temperatures and precipitation events will impact both energy usage and the durability of building exteriors. This climate analysis was undertaken to understand the potential impact on different types of buildings and the associated costs for repair.

Resilient Analytics served as a consultant to the United Nations, focusing on the physical impacts of climate change, particularly on buildings. The team studied commercial and residential building types to determine potential damage. They collaborated with the economic ministry to provide long-term cost considerations for the national economy.

Resilient Analytics expanded transportation models to include building types and multiple damage functions. The models allowed Resilient Analytics to model impacts to the structure, exterior and building systems. The collaboration with economic officials provided key inputs for determining housing investments throughout the country.