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The rapidly intensifying effects of climate change on urban settlements demand that cities move to the forefront of resilience planning. Climate extremes, from heatwaves to flooding, are increasingly testing the adaptability limits of urban systems and the vulnerability of their populations. Recognizing the unique position of cities, the IPCC’s seventh assessment cycle has prioritized urban areas in its upcoming Special Report on Climate Change and Cities. The IPCC report underscores the potential of cities to act as agents of climate adaptation and provides a framework for cities to build climate-resilient systems. Cities are positioned to pioneer practical, integrative solutions that blend climate sciences with urban planning, establishing frameworks that align economic growth, health equity, environmental sustainability, social justice, and effective governance. This opinion piece explores how cities, by positioning themselves as hubs for innovation, policy reform, and community collaboration, can transform climate vulnerabilities into opportunities for community resilience and sustainability, especially by becoming more-than-human cities, setting examples on the global stage.
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This content will become publicly available on June 1, 2026
Urban Climate Adaptation and REsilience (U-CARE) in Texas: Insights from Interdisciplinary Perspectives
The IPCC’s Special Report on Climate Change and Cities shows how cities must adapt to climate risks. Urban planners need to create solutions that fit each city’s needs, enhancing urban adaptability and resilience in the context of increasing climate-related risks. Sustainable urban planning, increased citizen awareness, and resilient infrastructure design are crucial in mitigating the growing impacts of climate change on human settlements. Addressing these challenges requires the integration of perspectives from diverse disciplines, including the natural sciences, social sciences, and engineering fields. This article draws on insights from a collaborative effort among experts in these areas, promoting a more coordinated and interdisciplinary approach. By bridging this expertise, we aim to advance resilience practices and awareness, fostering effective urban climate solutions in Texas and beyond.
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- Award ID(s):
- 2243602
- PAR ID:
- 10611556
- Author(s) / Creator(s):
- ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; more »
- Publisher / Repository:
- Springer Nature
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- Applied Spatial Analysis and Policy
- Volume:
- 18
- Issue:
- 2
- ISSN:
- 1874-463X
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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