Resilient ports for urban resilience: The importance climate risk assessment

Ports are a vital part of the global trade system, supplying goods to millions of people and connecting cities to international markets. Many coastal cities depend on ports for economic activity, connectivity, and employment, meaning disruptions can quickly cascade across transport systems, supply chains, and local economies. Climate-related impacts on ports already generate billions in global economic losses each year. Strengthening port resilience is therefore critical not only for global trade but also for urban resilience, as climate risks to port infrastructure can directly affect city livelihoods, mobility, and access to essential goods. This session will explore how climate risk knowledge can be translated into practical action for resilient transport infrastructure and stronger port–city systems. It will introduce the Port Decision Makers’ Guide to Climate Risk Assessment (CRA), developed by the International Coalition for Sustainable Infrastructure under the Resilience4Ports initiative. Through case studies and multi-stakeholder perspectives, the session will show how CRA can inform infrastructure planning, support investment decisions, and enable coordinated action.