Cities & Climate Change

This research area focuses on topics such as climate change and environmental justice; alternative energy and environmental health; vulnerability of urban populations and risks to critical infrastructure due to climate change; community-based participation in urban climate strategy; local carbon footprint models.

To see our publications in this research area please visit the Cities & Climate Change publications page.

Cities and Climate Change projects:

Initiative on Cities and Climate Change

In the decades to come, climate change will impact cities and their residents. Much of the world’s urbanized population lives in coastal regions, making them vulnerable to extreme weather events and inundation. Yet as centers of manufacturing, construction, goods consumption, and transportation activity, cities also contribute to climate change. Businesses, communities, and city governments recognize this and are beginning to develop strategies to reduce carbon emissions and do their share to address the climate change challenge. 

In recognition of the crucial interdependence between cities and climate change, the Center for Sustainable Cities launched a multi-year Initiative on Cities and Climate Change (ICCC).  This initiative will research the potential impacts of climate change on urban areas, and with environmental justice issues and identify urban-oriented solutions to address the crises posed by climate change.