Cascade effect
The cascade effect, (or cascading effect) is when an action or event causes a chain of subsequent unforeseen events, normally negatively, impacting one another. The word might be used with reference to a variety of systems from computer systems to ecological systems where an event in a system has a negative impact on other, related systems or sub-systems. Also referred to as knock-on effects or feedback loops.
In 2018 The World Economic Forum, in recognising the global risks, associated with extreme weather events, natural disasters, and failure of climate change mitigation and adaptation programmes, described these as highly interconnected because they cascade across many different domains. A study released prior to COP 26 talks of climate hazards such as extreme heat, drought and storms that could trigger "cascading impacts" that may be felt around the world within the next decade.
A world where weather patterns impact access housing, food security, health services, economic activity and water supply, where previously perceived as disconnected elements, have now become connected systems cascading and being more significant jointly than separately.
NB In conventional power grids, cascading effects might occur for example when overloaded lines cause a line trip which in turn causes other lines to also trip, resulting in outages. (NESCOR, 2013).
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
The heritage of nuclear and conventional power stations.
New measures to stop people being ripped off
Government to protect families from cowboy builders and aggressive bailiffs.
New Futurebuild showcase brings an innovation-first approach.
National Planning Policy Framework
Understanding the 2026 changes.
ECA's public affairs priorities
Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.
Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.
Where performance meets practice
The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.
CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.
Leaders in Learning for Practice Network
Call for conservation leaders in learning to register interest in new network.
The importance of early engagement
Construction lessons from the Trillium HealthWorks Experience Centre.
Mayors are to be given planning call in powers
Mayors across England will be able to make the most important planning decisions.
The Master Builder: William Butterfield and his times. Book review.