The event will explore how cities can drive local climate action through urban planning and design by addressing the following key questions: (1) How can we achieve equitable climate action through urban planning and design? (2) How do we move from climate action planning to concrete implementation in cities? (3) And how can we connect building and neighbourhood scales for effective climate action?

Building on current challenges, the session will focus on concrete solutions that can foster resilience and sustainability in our neighbourhoods and cities. In particular, the event will focus on the potential of urban planning and design for creating sustainable, low-carbon neighbourhoods and buildings through integrated solutions that reduce energy use, improve resource efficiency, and promote sustainable lifestyles. Urban planning and design have the potential to shape sustainable building development by defining urban morphology (such as building height, density, and open space allocation), by promoting compact and mixed-use planning approaches that foster walkability and active mobility, and by leveraging circular economy strategies like recycling and energy recovery. Thoughtfully designed spaces, both within and between buildings, can promote circular practices (e.g., composting) and support sustainable living and working through active mobility and resource sharing. Additionally, incorporating green infrastructure solutions enhances the environmental performance of buildings (e.g., by reducing cooling needs).

Participants will discuss innovative and integrated approaches that (1) optimise environmental performance at the neighbourhood and building levels, (2) tackle sprawl and low-density urban development by transforming cities into polycentric hubs, (3) embed nature-based, active mobility and circular economy solutions into urban development, and (4) foster social cohesion through inclusive, shared and public spaces.