How can investment in infrastructure support climate adaptation?

Investment in infrastructure supports climate adaptation primarily by developing resilient infrastructure. This involves creating and reinforcing systems that can endure and adapt to climate-related stresses, such as extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and increased temperatures. Resilient infrastructure can include flood defenses, stormwater management systems, temperature-resistant materials, and urban designs that minimize the heat island effect.

By investing in such infrastructure, communities can better withstand climate impacts, reducing vulnerability and potential damage from future climate events. This proactive approach not only protects physical assets but also enhances public safety and economic stability.

The other choices do not align with effective climate adaptation strategies. Enhancing fossil fuel resources contradicts the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and our reliance on non-renewable energy sources. Increasing urban sprawl generally leads to greater resource consumption and environmental degradation, making areas more susceptible to climate impacts. Eliminating public transportation would exacerbate emissions and congestion, undermining efforts to create sustainable, resilient communities.