This Model Code of Practice provides further amplification and explanation to engineers and national engineering organizations to interpret and implement principles of climate change adaptation at a practical level.

It is intended for practicing engineers who are members of one or more of the national organizations who are members of WFEO.

The Code of Practice on Principles of Climate Change Adaptation for Engineers

The WFEO Model Code of Practice on Principles of Climate Change Adapdation for Engineers was adopted at the December 2015 General Assembly. It has been prepared as a complement to the WFEO Model Code of Ethics for Engineers and the Model Code of Practice for Sustainable Development and Environmental Stewardship.

The Model Code of Practice is provided as guidance to engineers to consider the implications of climate change in their professional practice and that they create a clear record of the outcomes of those considerations. It consists of nine principles that constitute the scope of professional practice for engineers to initiate climate change adaptation actions, particularly for civil infrastructure and buildings.

The principles are summarized into three categories:

  • Professional Judgment
  • Integrating Climate Information
  • Practice guidance

Professional Judgment

Model Code Principle # 1: Integrate Adaption into Practice

Model Code Principle # 2: Review Adequacy of Current Standards

Model Code Principle # 3: Exercise Professional Judgement

Integrating Climate Information

Model Code Principle # 4: Interpret Climate Information

Model Code Principle # 5: Work with Specialists and Stakeholders

Model Code Principle # 6: Use Effective Language

Practice Guidance

Model Code Principle # 7: Plan for Service Life

Model Code Principle # 8: Use Risk Assessment for Uncertainty

Model Code Principle # 9: Monitor Legal Liabilities