Towards a Special Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change & Findings of the Innovate4Cities conference

Closing data and research gaps is crucial for developing effective urban solutions, as it ensures that cities have the comprehensive, accurate information needed to address complex challenges and make informed decisions for a sustainable future.

Building on the momentum of the 2024 Innovate4Cities Conference (I4C24), which gathered over 800 participants at the intersection of urban development and climate science, this dynamic session will drive forward critical conversations on the essential role of cities in accelerating climate action. With the IPCC Special Report on Cities and Climate Change on the horizon, this interactive panel discussion offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of urban resilience.

At I4C24, leaders from cities, academia, civil society, and industry convened to address urban climate challenges and advance solutions aligned with the Global Research and Action Agenda (GRAA) and the City Research and Innovation Agenda (CRIA). This session will spotlight key takeaways from the conference, focusing on how cities can bridge data gaps, leverage innovation, and apply strategic foresight to tackle climate impacts, demographic shifts, and resource scarcity.

By combining the anticipatory capabilities of strategic foresight with the practical solutions offered by innovation, cities can develop a unified agenda that not only addresses current climate challenges but also prepares for future uncertainties. The event is grounded in this integrated approach to ensure that cities are equipped with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to achieve long-term climate resilience and sustainability across the themes and topics of the GRAA.

Audience members will actively shape the conversation, sharing regional and national challenges while identifying critical next steps for effective urban climate action. This collaborative dialogue will help refine strategies and drive forward-looking solutions in anticipation of the upcoming IPCC Special Report on Cities and Climate Change. By integrating diverse insights, this session aims to set the stage for innovative, actionable outcomes that enhance urban resilience and sustainability.