Heat, Drought, and Storms: How Weather Extremes Are Reshaping Environmental Planning
2025 is shaping up to be another year of climate extremes. Heatwaves, droughts, and record-breaking storms are pushing facilities to rethink their environmental planning.
Heat can increase VOC emissions, strain equipment, and endanger workers. Drought conditions affect water use permits and dust control. Storms can overwhelm stormwater systems and increase spill risks.
Facilities need adaptive plans that anticipate and mitigate these risks.
Climate-resilient facilities have plans and infrastructure in place to withstand floods, fires, and power outages. But regulatory compliance is often the framework that supports this resilience. For example:
SWPPP and SPCC plans address flood control and spill containment.
Emergency Response Plans support continuity during climate disasters.
Stormwater infrastructure protects downstream waters from damage during heavy rainfall.
Extreme weather events are now a regular part of doing business. Industrial facilities must be resilient—and that starts with environmental compliance. That includes upgrading stormwater controls, evaluating air permit limits during high-heat periods, and ensuring water conservation measures are in place.