Standards and specifications
I walked away from our institution’s Commercial Management Conference on ‘Addressing Climate Change in Civil Engineering’ in June clear that the biggest issue was miscommunication. I’ve heard it since.
We started with a guided theme given to our speakers as ‘climate change and civil engineering’. However, this only got people half-hooked, so we changed it to ‘contracts and climate in civil engineering’. It made a huge difference.
Climate is a hot topic these days. But understanding how it fits with what we do for our careers ‘measuring and reshaping the Earth’ is an interesting field to be in.
It’s clear, the population is growing, the planet is adapting and we are responsible for ensuring that everything we do creates a sustainable outcome for all. So, how do we do that? That’s what all the fuss is about. And the truth is, we don’t really know.
As an inherently needy species that has evolved and shaped many things to our advantage, how do we continue to create infrastructure that supports our societal needs all while being sustainable. Everyone wants to know how we do this because it matters for our future.
If you aren’t stepping up already then read through the many recent articles in this journal and the back catalogue to get some sound expert opinions and advice.
Our institution’s Commercial Management Conference filled me with hope and drive that we can help get the right thing done. But I’m not convinced this was true for all attendees.
Prove me wrong!
Andy Evans FCInstCES, President