Most of the world’s population resides in urban areas, and it is expected that this will continue to be the case in the future. These urban areas face enormous challenges such as climate change, economic instability and inequality. Housing is considered a basic unit comprising cities, and, as such, this study contextualized the concepts of urban resilience and sustainability against climate change such that housing models that respond to these concepts could be identified. As a result of an extensive literature review, three resilient housing models and four sustainable housing models are presented and discussed with a focus on the main characteristics necessary for meeting urban resilience and sustainability against climate change. When analyzing the housing models considered resilient, the need to establish housing on safe land stood out and concrete was a common building material among these housing models. In addition, the use of alternative sources of water and energy supply was prioritized. On the other hand, sustainable housing models were developed by local entities and certified by various initiatives. In addition, these models account for the climatic specifications of their location, energy and water efficiency, and quality of the indoor environment, and promote the use of local materials and resources. The use of durable materials was considered a requirement for both resilience and sustainability. The results of this study are a contribution to the process of strengthening housing against the challenge posed by climate change in a timely and adequate manner considering both urban resilience and sustainability aspects.

To mitigate the effects of climate change and increase the resilience of cities, climate risks in urban areas are crucial issues to be addressed. This study analyzes the risks, vulnerability, capacity, degree of exposure, and characteristics of the threats to Panama’s urban areas that result from climate change. Data from DesInventar—a conceptual and methodological tool developed for the construction of databases regarding losses, damages, or effects caused by emergencies or disasters—were analyzed. The main current impacts are floods, landslides, and extreme winds in that order. From 1933 to 2019, Panama recorded 1903 flood reports, 625 landslide reports, and numerous extreme wind events. The affected population totaled 527,394 people, with 101,738 homes impacted. The most affected provinces are Panama, Panama Oeste, and Chiriquí, based on the number of reports. It is expected that in the future, the current effects will increase, and the country’s energy and water security will be put at risk. Strategies to address climate change include enhancing early warning systems and investing in climate-resilient infrastructure. Key measures involve developing public policies for renewable energy and sustainable transportation, preserving ecosystems, and financial mechanisms to support a transition to a sustainable economy.

Ensuring that ecosystem services are effectively maintained and integrated while also proactively adapting to the challenges posed by climate change is essential for developing sustainable and resilient housing in both new and existing settlements. The tropics cover roughly 40% of the world and are home to about 40% of the global population. By the late 2030s or 2040s, 50% of the world’s population is projected to live in the tropics. This research project investigates the intersection of sustainable construction and energy security for achieving sustainable and resilient housing in tropical climates. Examining (1) resilience strategies against climate change impacts and (2) case studies led to highlighting best practices regarding construction and energy security aspects. Finally, a reference framework is provided for architects, policymakers, and stakeholders involved in tropical housing development.

In recent decades, urban centers have been facing enormous challenges with the increase in natural disasters, and the impossibility of recovering from them. In this context, the objective of this research is to propose resilience and sustainability indicators for Panamanian urban housing by considering the effects of climate change through an extensive analysis of the country's vulnerability. Using qualitative processes, validated by national and international professionals, it was possible to characterize resilient and sustainable housing and develop a proposal of 29 indicators that respond to current and future climate change-related impacts: 15 for resilience and 14 for sustainability. Thus, building a simple useful tool to evaluate the resilience and sustainability of urban housing.

As communities face growing pressures, such as rapid urbanization and climate change, transitioning to a regenerative built environment is crucial for a more sustainable and equitable future. Thus, this chapter explores strategies for a human-centered and regenerative built environment that addresses the challenges of urbanization, climate change, and societal needs through biomaterials. This approach focuses on creating housing and infrastructure that enhances people’s quality of life while reducing environmental footprints, prioritizing sustainability, resilience, and adaptability to changing climate conditions. Key considerations include indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and built environment restoration. Regenerative design principles focus on systems that restore and regenerate natural ecosystems. Emerging innovations, biomaterials, and circular economy concepts are fundamental in implementing these principles. By using renewable resources and reducing waste, buildings and infrastructures can contribute positively to the environment rather than depleting it. Finally, case studies will illustrate how these strategies impact health, sustainability, and resilience.