Rethinking the way we build infrastructure is no longer optional, it’s essential for both people and nature.
Professor Anusha Shah, President of the Institution of Civil Engineers, advocates for a “nature and people positive” approach in the construction sector. With the industry responsible for 30% of biodiversity loss, it’s clear that we must transform the way we plan, design, and build. The urgency is palpable; nature loss is driving climate change, causing floods, wildfires, and devastating ecosystems. The construction process, while necessary, cannot continue at the expense of the environment.
Now is the time to rethink why, where, and how we build infrastructure. This is not just a technical challenge — it’s a societal crisis. The pace of change must accelerate, even if solutions aren’t perfect yet. Civil engineers play a pivotal role, but real progress will only come through true collaboration across sectors and generations. It’s about including local communities in the design process, working with global partners, and learning from regions like the Global South that are facing the brunt of climate change.
The future of infrastructure must be one that protects nature and improves quality of life, ensuring we build with resilience and sustainability at the heart of every decision.
