ABSTRACT

Although there are many challenges facing the world, the one that has captured the headlines over the last decades has been global warming. The climate is changing, and whether in terms of flooding, snowfalls, storms, drought, the consequences of climate change on road networks are considerable. Increasing rainfall and greater flows lead to flooding and road flushing. Such a statement may seem alarmist, but it does give an indication of the huge effect of climate on road networks. Additionally, ground frosts and moderate and high temperatures play a role in the bearing capacity and durability of roads. In this context, the impact of climate change on the structural design of roads and streets has been highlighted in this chapter. A combination of traditional roads construction and climate change would risk aggravating the situation. Therefore, various measures that can be taken to build roads capable of withstanding future climate changes are discussed in this chapter; among others, roads equipped with water reservoirs, new drainage systems and road heating systems.