Our Impact
Since 2015, our interdisciplinary team has provided tools and insights that enable decision-makers to understand, assess, and respond to climate and social risks. We believe that scientifically driven, data-informed, and community-centered solutions can transform urban resilience to climate change and social inequities. By co-producing research and developing next-generation decision-support tools we aim to drive evidence-based policies, expand access to resilience strategies, and promote long-term urban sustainability. Please reach out to our Associate Director, Chris Kennedy to discuss opportunities for partnership and collaboration.
Our Approach
Through partnerships with cities, communities, and global networks, we turn research into actionable tools—reports, assessments, digital platforms, and policy briefs—helping stakeholders make informed decisions. Cities and other stakeholders use our insights for planning and targeted decision-making, policymakers scale up nature-based solutions (NbS) and other solutions, and communities gain more control over their environmental futures. Short-term, we improve data access, decision-making, and collaboration for resilience efforts. Long-term, we drive systemic change by integrating climate risk analysis and NbS into urban governance. Our work focuses on three key areas:
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We use next-generation climate modeling, AI, machine learning, and spatial analysis to provide high-resolution data and tools for cities to anticipate and respond to extreme weather and other urban challenges. Our decision-support tools empower communities and governments to proactively plan for climate threats and other hazards, ensuring that resilience planning is evidence-based and locally informed. Learn more
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USL leads research on the design and implementation of nature-based solutions (NbS) to support climate adaptation, urban biodiversity, and human and planetary health. From urban forests to green infrastructure, we work across regions and sectors to integrate ecological strategies into the fabric of cities. Learn more
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We partner directly with communities, civic leaders, and governments to co-develop research, tools, and strategies that enhance inclusive governance and local climate resilience planning. By emphasizing co-production, we ensure our work supports advocacy, improves cross-agency collaboration, and makes complex science accessible and actionable. Learn more
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From Research to Action: Stories of Impact
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Support Our Work
Over the past decade, our initiatives have significantly influenced urban planning and climate adaptation strategies in cities across the US and world. Our partners, which include municipal governments, community organizations, and global networks, have driven substantial improvements in environmental justice and resilience worldwide. To advance this important and impactful work, we are seeking support to scale our efforts, enhance technical capabilities, and create opportunities for student research and early career training. We welcome the chance to talk with you about potential opportunities!
