Perspectives on the resilience of existing bridges to short- and long-term impacts of climate change
Nefize Shaban (Middle East Technical University)
Erica Arango (TU Delft - Integral Design & Management)
Alejandro Jiménez Rios (University of Bath)
Luis F. Rincon (Universite de la Rochelle-CNRS, Universidade de Coimbra)
Yue Shang (TU Delft - Safety and Security Science)
Bassel Habeeb (Universite de la Rochelle-CNRS)
Beatriz Martín-Pérez (University of Ottawa)
Tiago Miguel Ferreira (Universidade de Lisboa)
Miguel Angel Mendoza-Lugo (TNO)
Rafael Ramírez Eudave (Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL)
Emilio Bastidas-Arteaga (Universite de la Rochelle-CNRS)
Hélder S. Sousa (Universidade de Coimbra)
Maria Nogal (TU Delft - Materials- Mechanics- Management & Design, TU Delft - Integral Design & Management)
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Abstract
Climate change poses escalating risks to bridge infrastructure, with short-term hazards–such as flash floods, scour, snowfall, wildfires and windstorms–interacting with long-term stressors like corrosion and thermal effects to compromise safety and functionality. The paper synthesises interdisciplinary research on these challenges, and highlights actionable adaptation strategies to enhance resilience at both asset and network levels. Two critical yet often overlooked dimensions in resilience-based bridge management are emphasised: the unique challenges of adapting heritage bridges, and the integration of human-centered approaches. These dimensions, supported by emerging digital technologies such as digital twins, IoT-enabled monitoring and AI-driven predictive tools, contribute to both the resilience and social sustainability of bridge infrastructure. By integrating technical, cultural and social considerations, the paper provides a foundational perspective for rethinking current design, preservation and maintenance practices, and for advancing infrastructure that is not only resilient to physical stressors but also socially sustainable amid accelerating climate challenges.
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File under embargo until 20-10-2026