The future is now

  • Special Feature

    The Future is Now

    Infrastructure's role in economic recovery

    Authored by: Michael S. Burke
    The global community has been badly shaken, but already, there is a determination to emerge from this stronger: to rethink how we do things and reboot.
  • Monuments to trying times

    Stimulus investments that are still paying dividends

    Authored by: Steve Morriss
    Stimulus spending is an opportunity to fix inadequate infrastructure, transforming communities for decades to come.
  • Social impact: Building a better case for infrastructure Investment

    Measuring social impact

    Authored by: Lara Poloni
    As we look towards recovery, there’s a danger that economic concerns dominate infrastructure decisions. To support those most hurt by coronavirus, social impact should be a key driver for investment.
  • Coronavirus; what role will infrastructure play in our economic recovery?

    Podcast features: Mark Thurston, Dean Sporn, Nick King and Mark Southwell
    In a wide-ranging discussion, AECOM’s Mark Southwell was joined by Mark Thurston of HS2, Dean Sporn from Highways England, and Nick King from Network Rail to discuss how infrastructure can be used to kickstart the economy.
  • Harnessing lasting climate benefits from the coronavirus lockdowns

    Keeping a lid on emissions after the lockdowns end

    Authored by: Colin Wood and Jamie Shaw
    Recent restrictions on movement and the resultant drop in economic activity have been tough on people but good for emissions reductions. How we can ensure that the environmental gains aren’t temporary?
  • Project speed: infrastructure’s role in economic recovery

    Translating political rhetoric into actual delivery

    Authored by: David Barwell
    For the UK Government’s ‘New Deal’ on infrastructure to be a good deal, it needs a programme of investments with clear planned outcomes

Adapting today for a new tomorrow

  • Calling time on rush hour in a post-pandemic world

    Changing behavior in transport

    Authored by: Joe Seymour
    Coronavirus restrictions are not going to end suddenly. As restrictions are eased and people return to work, we will need a new approach to transport.
  • The impact of coronavirus on water and wastewater

    Anticipating the impact on water

    In response to the current pandemic, specialists at AECOM are studying what is currently known about coronavirus to anticipate the impact on potable water and wastewater.
  • Unintended consequences: coronavirus, air quality and transport trends

    We look at the potential positive effects

    Authored by: Duncan Urquhart
    Could coronavirus have unintended positive consequences on air quality?
  • How the coronavirus may change the future of work

    People and their wellbeing will matter most

    Authored by: June Koh
    Since the crisis began, work habits and rituals have changed beyond recognition. Post-pandemic what might the future office look like?
  • The economic shutdown cannot last indefinitely, we look at what a phased return to operations and preparing for the new normal might be like.
  • Coronavirus; what role will infrastructure play in our economic recovery?

    Podcast features: Mark Thurston, Dean Sporn, Nick King and Mark Southwell
    In a wide-ranging discussion, AECOM’s Mark Southwell was joined by Mark Thurston of HS2, Dean Sporn from Highways England, and Nick King from Network Rail to discuss how infrastructure can be used to kickstart the economy.
  • How to reopen airports in a post-coronavirus world

    Conquering the new fear of flying

    Authored by: Bijan Pashanamaei and Richard Gammon
    Coronavirus is unlikely to be eradicated until a vaccine is found. We examine ways the travel industry, and airports in particular, can restore passenger confidence by making travel safe again.
  • The new normal: what will rail travel behaviour be like post coronavirus

    The future starts now

    Authored by: Shamit Gaiger
    Coronavirus will have far-reaching effects on attitudes to public transportation, travel needs and funding, the railway industry needs to start preparing for a totally transformed transport environment.
  • Special Feature

    Harnessing lasting climate benefits from the coronavirus lockdowns

    Keeping a lid on emissions after the lockdowns end

    Authored by: Colin Wood and Jamie Shaw
    Recent restrictions on movement and the resultant drop in economic activity have been tough on people but good for emissions reductions. How we can ensure that the environmental gains aren’t temporary?
  • Project speed: infrastructure’s role in economic recovery

    Translating political rhetoric into actual delivery

    Authored by: David Barwell
    For the UK Government’s ‘New Deal’ on infrastructure to be a good deal, it needs a programme of investments with clear planned outcomes
  • Post pandemic: our cities will continue to thrive

    Three responses cities can embrace to grow back better

    Authored by: Andrew Jones and Stephen Gleave
    The pandemic of 2020 has posed an incredible challenge for our cities, affecting how people live, work and socialise within them. As restrictions ease, some are questioning how these changes – some of which will be permanent - will shape the pull of cities. We identify three ways of ensuring our urban places continue to be vibrant, thriving spaces.
  • Mind the gap

    The future of mass transit systems

    Authored by: Veronica Siranosian and Joe Seymour
    As coronavirus-related government restrictions ease, social distancing requirements pose enormous challenges for the operators of mass transit systems, many of whom have also seen a huge drop in farebox revenue. Given the critical importance of public transport in enabling accessible, equitable, and sustainable cities, AECOM’s Veronica Siranosian and Joe Seymour say proactive action is needed to support its long-term resiliency.
  • Post pandemic we will still need the physical office

    Lessons learnt and future trends

    Authored by: June Koh and Kelly Bacon
    The workplace is undergoing a radical change. Office form and function is going to have to work harder.
  • Smart buildings that use sensors and operable windows alongside mechanical ventilation systems can be both energy efficient and safe.
  • Helping authorities target the right investments in infrastructure and technology
  • Foreseeable futures: the power of logic mapping

    Helping decision-makers lock in environmental, social and economic benefits

    Authored by: Peter Wright
    Decision-making and planning through the coronavirus uncertainty requires bold leadership and an understanding that there are many possible versions of the future. Logic mapping can help.
  • What changed travel patterns mean for the office of the future

    Examining workforce mobility in Ireland and beyond

    Authored by: Elaine Brick and Arnis Kakulis
    Travel habits have changed for good. How should public and private sector organisations respond?
  • Equitable infrastructure

    Creating opportunities for everyone is good for business

    Authored by: Kelli Bernard
    Infrastructure has the power to create opportunities, but historically the access it enables hasn’t been equal. Through lack of vision, accident and sometimes with intent, infrastructure has in some places contributed to systemic inequality by dividing people and creating barriers to opportunity. Going forward, AECOM’s Kelli Bernard says businesses will gain from doing more to ensure infrastructure is inclusive, not divisive.
  • Digital engagement can help infrastructure be more equitable

    Reaching demographics who aren't always heard.

    Authored by: David Innis
    One impact of the lack of diversity in the infrastructure industry is an under-appreciation of the social, racial, and gender dynamics of the populations we are building for.

Generating social impact

  • How waterfronts are transforming Asia Pacific's cities

    The potential for economic growth

    Authored by: Yaping Chai
    We look at how waterfront restoration projects can drive economic growth, boost urban water resources and improve people’s lives.
  • Preserving authenticity in Asia Pacific’s growing cities

    A future market model

    Authored by: Sylvester Wong
    We discuss how cities' innovation and investment and smart technology can help solve some of the most pressing urbanization issues.
  • A 'force for good'

    Maximising social value when delivering public sector contracts

    Authored by: Dave Bennett
    We gathered experts from across the public, third and private sector to discuss “What does Social Value mean for the built environment professional services industry?”
  • How congestion charging could unclog Auckland

    Ensuring a better quality of life for all

    Authored by: Chris Ballantyne and Simon Buxton
    Congestion charging could be a game-changer for Auckland. Faster commutes, safer roads reduced costs, increased productivity and a better quality of life.
  • Evolution of the transit ecosystem

    A city's mobility ecosystem

    Authored by: Roger Jeffries
    How Transport for New South Wales used a new metro system to reimagine transportation in Sydney.
  • Special Feature

    Social impact: Building a better case for infrastructure Investment

    Measuring social impact

    Authored by: Lara Poloni
    As we look towards recovery, there’s a danger that economic concerns dominate infrastructure decisions. To support those most hurt by coronavirus, social impact should be a key driver for investment.
  • Sound arguments: the wonder of acoustics

    When does sound become noise?

    Authored by: Cameron Salisbury
    To mark the International Year of Sound 2020, we explain why it’s time to bring sound to the forefront of the conversation.
  • Social value: the next ‘great leap’ in Melbourne and Sydney’s transit infrastructure?

    Maximizing the benefits from investment

    Authored by: Tim O'Loan and Terry Wong
    We discuss how Melbourne and Sydney are learning from other locations with developed transit-related value capture models.
  • Going the extra kilometre: moving Southeast Asia's cities forward

    The value of connectivity

    Authored by: Scott Dunn
    As more people move to urban areas, the need for better transportation infrastructure – with a focus on improving ‘last kilometre' connectivity – is as critical as ever
  • Unlocking the social value of infrastructure investment

    Four ways to fully embed social value in decision making

    Authored by: Mary Zsamboky
    There is a need to make the UK’s infrastructure more sustainable and inclusive. We argue that placing social value at the centre of infrastructure investment must be a priority.  
  • Foreseeable futures: the power of logic mapping

    Helping decision-makers lock in environmental, social and economic benefits

    Authored by: Peter Wright
    Decision-making and planning through the coronavirus uncertainty requires bold leadership and an understanding that there are many possible versions of the future. Logic mapping can help.

Strengthening resilience

  • Ensuring New York's future through coastal resilience

    Exploring innovative public and private financing solutions

    Authored by: Stephen Engblom, Joel Sonkin and Daniel Berkovits
    Exploring public and private financial solutions to deliver essential climate adaptation and flood protection infrastructure in New York.
  • Embracing nature will transform the cities of the future

    A community of nature working together

    Authored by: Ash Welch
    How can nature-based approaches and biophilic spaces help cities secure a successful, sustainable future?
  • Three ways to cut energy use

    Making water processes more efficient

    Authored by: Dr Pascal Harper
    We look at three ways to make water processes more energy-efficient for water companies.
  • Imagine Mumbai: Improving land use in India's burgeoning cities

    Tackling the urgent issue of land utilisation in the face of rapid urbanisation.

    Authored by: Avinash Misra
    How Mumbai is tackling its urgent issue of land utilization in the face of rapid urbanization.
  • Inflow and infiltration

    A new approach

    Authored by: Andy Gibson
    Inflow and infiltration costs money and damages public trust. How can innovative new processes help municipalities improve traditional management methodologies?
  • Special Feature

    Paying it forward: Why resilience is a rising priority

    Environmental resilience to natural shocks

    Authored by: Stephen Engblom and Caitlin MacLean
    From the coronavirus to severe weather events, achieving resilience and meeting the infrastructure funding gap has become an urgent and strategic imperative for cities.
  • Far better outcomes are possible in flood management

    The benefits of a holistic approach

    Authored by: Jonathan Short
    Local authorities have an opportunity to secure greater funding contributions to enable flood and coastal erosion management schemes that deliver wider economic, environmental and social benefits.
  • Preparation is the first step to resilience

    Advocating a collaborative, value-driven pre-recovery approach to strategic planning

    Authored by: Will Symons
    Weather-driven disasters such as floods and bushfires are costing Australia billions of dollars. It's time to start investing in resilience measures.
  • Resilient cities need a multi-disciplinary approach

    The importance of seeing the whole picture

    Authored by: Mike Henderson and Renard Teipelke
    The need to build resilience into our cities has never been greater. A holistic, multi-disciplinary approach is needed to protect our urban communities.
  • Decarbonising data centres

    Harnessing tidal power

    Authored by: Sam Mackilligin
    In our digital world, data centres have become some of the world’s biggest consumers of power. Yet, the data centre of the future must be decarbonised.
  • Are our towns and cities prepared to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow

    How prepared are we?

    Podcast features: Angela Rya, Caitlin MacLean and Stephen Engblom
    From aging and deficient infrastructure… to the challenges of climate change and population growth, it’s widely acknowledged that we are under-prepared to meet the increasingly unpredictable challenges of today.

Securing resources

Sustainability tackling the climate emergency

Making the case for infrastructure

Driving innovation

  • Estimate projects better with machine learning technology

    Improving the way we predict cost, quality, schedule and outcomes

    Authored by: Tristan Harvey-Rice and Edward Day
    How can machine learning improve the way we predict cost, quantity, schedule and outcomes for built environment projects?
  • Improving infrastructure cost estimate accuracy

    How can machine learning lead to more precise cost estimates?

    Authored by: Edward Day and Tristan Harvey-Rice
    How using machine learning and assembly tools can lead to more precise cost estimates, using fewer resources than traditional approaches.
  • Driving innovation in road asset management to leverage value

    Securing the best-possible return

    Authored by: Dr Bachar Hakim and Diego Gonzalez Pascual
    How can we adapt to new technologies, futureproof and maintain the highway systems effectively? We explore the innovations that can help secure value.
  • Selling the autonomous vehicle solution: Can the benefits effect change?

    Exploring the vehicle love affair

    Authored by: Damien Lambert
    Are we are overlooking the fact that some people just like to drive?
  • Inflow and infiltration

    A new approach

    Authored by: Andy Gibson
    Inflow and infiltration costs money and damages public trust. How can innovative new processes help municipalities improve traditional management methodologies?
  • Digital twin: Transforming the way we build roads

    Common barriers and key first steps

    Authored by: James Colclough
    We outline key technologies and considerations that every asset owner should take – no matter what the project size.
  • Innovation in the water industry: unlocking Ofwat’s £200 million fund

    The innovation challenge

    Authored by: Ian Small
    Can the water industry use innovation from their supply chain to help gain efficiencies?
  • Sound arguments: the wonder of acoustics

    When does sound become noise?

    Authored by: Cameron Salisbury
    To mark the International Year of Sound 2020, we explain why it’s time to bring sound to the forefront of the conversation.
  • In response to concerns about PFAS being released into the environment, we invented an on-site destruction process that can be scaled to fit the challenge.
  • Special Feature

    Cultivating innovation in risk-averse industries

    Staying competitive

    Authored by: Orla Pease and Colette Munro
    When delivering big infrastructure projects, the industry traditionally prioritizes operational excellence over innovation. There’s a growing realization, however, that innovation is needed to stay competitive.
  • Transportation: the future is electric

    Preparing today for an electric tomorrow

    Authored by: Andrew Bui
    Electrified transportation is likely to be a top contender for stimulus funding given its potential economic and environmental contributions – both now and in the future.
  • Rethinking procurement to drive innovation

    Six small to significant changes

    Authored by: Alex Mathewson and John Bradley
    If innovation is to be achieved on a project then procurement should be the starting point.
  • PFAS

    How to tackle 'forever chemicals'

    Podcast features: Rachael Casson, Rosa Gwinn, Gavin Scherer and Rick Parkman
    PFAS are found in everything from polar bears to pizza boxes.
  • Transforming the way people engage with major projects

    Our suite of advanced digital capabilities

    Authored by: Ross Stewart
    Digital tools enable a more collaborative, transparent approach to design and consenting for major infrastructure projects, delivering a step-change improvement.
  • Modern road solutions for greener infrastructure

    Time to accelerate change

    Authored by: Iswandaru Widyatmoko
    Clever use of data and efficient reuse of materials are vital if we are to reduce carbon emissions and waste when building and managing road networks.
  • Optimising investment in asset health in the water industry

    From leakage to drinking water quality

    Authored by: Andy Gibson
    To realise the maximum value from their assets, water companies must focus on optimising investment in asset health
  • Using sustainable drainage to decarbonise developments

    Why we need to view water as an asset, not a problem

    Authored by: Martin Williamson
    Thanks to advances in heat pump technology, developers and local authorities should tap into water as a source of renewable energy.
  • Decarbonising data centres

    Harnessing tidal power

    Authored by: Sam Mackilligin
    In our digital world, data centres have become some of the world’s biggest consumers of power. Yet, the data centre of the future must be decarbonised.
  • Essential digital investments for the water industry

    Ways to invest wisely

    Authored by: James Leverton
    We examine the most effective digital tools available to water companies for use on projects both big and small
  • Digital integration: the next step for Europe's transport network

    The dream of a continent-wide monitoring system

    Authored by: Costanzo Graffi
    What would a fully interoperable and integrated network look like - and how can it be achieved?

Future of Work