This paper examines the impact of climate change on port infrastructure and proposes a three-tier holistic model for adaptations to climate change. This change to the global climate system includes warmer temperature, rising sea levels and potentially more frequent and severe extreme weather events.

While there appears to be a general consensus on the impact of climate change (IPCC, 2013); majority of researches conducted had mainly focussed on mitigation measures aiming at reducing CO2 emissions. A need for a holistic adaptation model for infrastructure (precisely port infrastructure) has therefore become necessary. Sea navigation is characterised by low energy consumption and therefore small carbon footprint. Its climate-friendly image makes it attractive for shippers of cargo (PIANC, 2008). Global trade is largely seaborne (91%), moving through ports (South Africa, 2011). As such, the development of the maritime transport infrastructure has become a key enabler and catalyst for the competitiveness and development of any regional economy.

Meanwhile seaports are located in vulnerable areas to climate change impacts; on coast susceptible to sea level rise and storms or at the mouths of rivers susceptible to flooding (Becker, Inoue, Fischer & Schweegler, 2011). Majority of coastal / port current infrastructure was built on the assumption of a static climate (Stockholm Environment Institute, 2010); while these infrastructures have generally a long useful life and are expected to be in operation for many decades to come.

There is some evidence that investment decisions are beginning to take potential adaptation measures into account (Pricewaterhouse Coopers, 2010); but the extent to which climate change adaptation is consistently considered across the sector still remains unclear. Much infrastructure built today will stand as climatic conditions change over the course of the century. A three-tier model for adaptation is therefore necessary to serve as benchmark for future infrastructure planning, decision making and investment strategies in the industry.