Accuracy contributed to discussions at the International Bar Association Annual Conference, where Chris Beirise, Partner, spoke on the implications of climate change for construction projects, with a focus on risk allocation and contractual frameworks.
The panel examined evolving weather patterns and their impact on project delivery. Data-driven insights highlighted increasing precipitation intensity despite stable overall volumes, rising wind speeds since 2010, and a growing frequency and severity of extreme weather events such as floods and hurricanes.
These developments have direct consequences for infrastructure projects. Short but intense rainfall events can lead to significant delays, while wind-sensitive activities, including offshore and high-rise construction, may require more granular and site-specific weather monitoring. In higher-risk environments, contractual mechanisms to share weather-related risks are becoming increasingly relevant.
Discussions also explored how contracts can adapt to these changes. This includes the potential to define agreed data sources within contracts, refine force majeure and extension of time provisions, and tailor weather-related clauses to specific sectors such as offshore wind.
These exchanges reflect a broader need to reassess traditional approaches to risk allocation in construction, as climate-related uncertainties become a more prominent factor in project planning and execution.
