A comprehensive new report by the U.S. Green Building Council and University of Michigan's Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning evaluates research on the likely impacts of climate change on the built environment, and identifies strategies for adapting to those impacts while upholding sustainable design principles. 

Among other things, the report notes that most buildings are designed to withstand historical patterns of precipitation and temperature that may alter dramatically over the lifetime of the structure as a result of climate change.  Adapting to these impacts may require changes in the selection of building materials and the design of critical building systems, such as climate control and stormwater management.    The report provides recommendations relating to building envelopes; siting and landscaping; heating, cooling, and lighting systems; water and waste systems; equipment; and building operations.