There are many tough issues to be addressed in finding the best ways to build resilience into coastal regions. But there is also much that has already been studied, is well known, is practical and can be implemented now without the need for new studies. What is needed is for these recommendations to be enacted and to become part of zoning and building codes and the process of approving new development and infrastructure.

Commercial real estate tenants and investors are increasingly explicit in recognizing that an energy-efficient asset produces stronger returns by lowering operating costs. However, information on whole-building energy performance is often unavailable, making it difficult for the market to distinguish between efficient and inefficient assets. Read about changes and progress being made in this area.