Research

​The MIT Concrete Sustainability Hub (CSHub) offers compelling research supporting the adoption of noncombustible construction materials to enhance resilience against natural hazards, including wildfires.

Underestimated Hazard Risks: CSHub emphasizes that the risks posed by natural disasters, such as wildfires and extreme heat, are often underestimated. Investing in stronger, noncombustible construction is a critical strategy to mitigate these risks.​

Community-Scale Resilience Assessment: CSHub is developing tools to assess the economic vulnerability of structures within communities, considering factors like building density and configuration. This research aims to quantify and visualize the vulnerability of neighborhoods, guiding investments in resilient construction methods.​

Building & Neighborhood-Specific Fragility Assessment: By creating building-specific fragility curves, CSHub's research facilitates a performance-based approach to resilience. This includes evaluating the performance of building components such as windows, siding, doors, and roofs under various hazards.​

Policy Implications:

CSHub's findings underscore the importance of integrating noncombustible materials, like concrete and steel, into building codes and construction practices, especially in wildfire-prone areas. By adopting these materials, communities can enhance their resilience, reduce potential damage, and improve long-term sustainability.