Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce Conducts Climate Change Summit to Address Economic and Infrastructure Risks
The Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce recently convened a climate change summit, focusing on the economic and infrastructure threats posed by climate change. Highlights included discussions on sustainable development and construction innovation, emphasized by expert projections of substantial future losses across various sectors. The event reinforced the need for resilient infrastructure and proactive measures to combat climate challenges, particularly for vulnerable populations.
The Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce hosted a significant summit addressing climate change, focusing on its consequences for the island’s economy and infrastructure. Gathering experts from various sectors, the event was aptly named “Summit 2025: Alert! Condominiums, Buildings and Climate Change Collapse,” aiming to discuss strategies for sustainable development and climate adaptation.
Chamber President Luis Pizarro emphasized the forum’s importance, stating it is vital for the economic development of Puerto Rico, particularly within the construction sector. The discussions encompassed several critical topics including real estate security, innovative construction methods, sustainable development regulations, and the effects of climate change on insurance and project financing.
Engineer Carl-Axel P. Soderberg presented alarming projections related to postponing climate action. He estimated that if unaddressed, losses could amount to $235 billion in manufacturing and up to $100 billion in services by 2050. Other sectors, including housing, tourism, and agriculture, would also experience substantial economic impacts.
Maritza Barreto from the University of Puerto Rico Coastal Planning and Research Institute illustrated the tangible effects of climate change, specifically rising sea levels, on infrastructure. She reported the erosion threats to 105 road segments and the disappearance of beaches, revealing that 22% of the population lives in low-elevation coastal zones.
Furthermore, Barreto noted that 32% of critical infrastructure is situated within 10 meters of the coast, heightening vulnerability for essential services. The discussion underscored the urgent need for proactive measures, especially for at-risk populations. President Pizarro reiterated, “A modern, safe and resilient construction sector is essential for Puerto Rico’s economic growth,” highlighting the necessity for infrastructure that can effectively withstand climate threats.
The Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce’s climate change summit brought to light the urgent issues that Puerto Rico faces due to climate change, ranging from economic consequences to infrastructure vulnerabilities. Experts provided vital data underscoring the potential financial losses if proactive measures are not implemented. The event emphasized the importance of innovative construction and resilient infrastructure for sustainable economic development, particularly in light of the challenges posed by climate change. As discussions concluded, it is clear that effective strategies must be established immediately to safeguard the future of Puerto Rico’s economy and its communities.
Original Source: newsismybusiness.com
