HS2 Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience Report

HS2 Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience Report.

The report details the progress made thus far in the integration of climate change considerations into the planning, design, and construction of the railway. It also highlights best practices employed in the process and the successful incorporation of climate risk management strategies.

This document assesses the climate-related risks associated with the project and demonstrates the effective integration of climate risk management within the organisation. It further identifies ongoing efforts related to climate adaptation and resilience.

Old Oak Common Station: A Sustainable Future

HS2’s Old Oak Common station, situated in west London, is set to become one of the busiest stations in the country. Designed with a focus on sustainability and climate resilience, it has earned an ‘outstanding’ rating under the internationally recognized Building Research Establishment’s Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM). This rating surpasses the required ‘excellent’ standard set by the project’s Environmental Minimum Requirements. BREEAM is widely regarded as the leading indicator for building design excellence, sustainability, and construction, placing Old Oak Common in the top 1% of sustainable buildings in the UK.

Sustainability and Climate Adaptation

A key feature of Old Oak Common’s design is its emphasis on climate change adaptation. The station has received an exemplary credit for its integrated approach to resilience, which addresses the future impacts of climate change. Climate modeling suggests that rising temperatures could increase the risk of overheating in buildings, while changes in rainfall patterns may lead to flooding and water scarcity. Additionally, the expected rise in carbon dioxide levels, combined with extreme weather, could accelerate the degradation of construction materials.

To address these challenges, thermal modeling at Old Oak Common incorporates industry-standard climate change projections, ensuring that the station will remain comfortable and energy-efficient. The station’s design also includes passive measures, such as external shading, vegetation, and natural ventilation, which help mitigate the effects of increased solar gains. These measures not only contribute to energy and emission savings but also manage the risks posed by climate change.

Future-Proofing Against Climate Risks

In anticipation of changing passenger expectations for thermal comfort and higher levels of warming, provisions have been made for a future platform cooling system. This system will offer flexibility to manage the potential impacts of climate change. The station’s design also includes durable protective measures for vulnerable and exposed areas, minimizing the risk of deterioration and reducing maintenance needs over time.

Water Management and Resilience

With UK summers expected to become drier and winters wetter, Old Oak Common’s design addresses these shifts by incorporating a climate change allowance in the drainage system. This ensures that the risk of localized flooding, both on and offsite, is minimized. Additionally, to enhance water resilience during periods of scarcity, the station will harvest rainwater from its roof. This rainwater will meet 100% of the demand for flushing toilets, significantly reducing the station’s reliance on potable water.

Summary Table

In conclusion, Old Oak Common station’s design is a model of sustainability and futureproofing, ensuring that it not only meets the demands of today but also adapts to the challenges of tomorrow’s changing climate.

HS2 Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience Report.