IHS at Adaptation Futures 2025

The Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS) participated in the Adaptation Futures 2025 conference held in Christchurch, New Zealand, in October. IHS sponsored the Cities Pavilion, which served as an important hub for fostering dialogue and bridging the gap between scientific research, policy, and urban practices. Additionally, General Director David Dodman took part in several high-level discussions and meetings during the event.

Resilience and future climate scenarios

David Dodman shared his expertise during key panel discussions, providing valuable insights into the challenges of climate resilience in urban areas. During the panel titled “Challenges for Climate Resilient Development in Cities,” the conversation focused on the complex relationship between climate risks and urban economies. Concerns were raised about how recognising climate risks could unintentionally have negative effects, such as decreasing property values or discouraging investors. Additionally, Dr Dodman emphasised the importance of effective planning and highlighted the need for adequate housing and basic services as essential components for achieving true climate-resilient development in cities.

Another key contribution was made on the “Beyond Adaptation” panel. Here, the focus shifted to the concerns surrounding climate overshoot, acknowledging the current unlikelihood of limiting immediate global warming to the 1.5 °C target above pre-industrial levels. The discussion underscored that cities and their residents must adapt to rising temperatures while also investing heavily in measures to achieve net negative emissions. This dual approach is crucial to limiting the duration for which the 1.5 °C threshold is exceeded.

Key discussions at the Cities Pavilion

As the conference’s dedicated space for urban-focused exchange, the Cities Pavilion, hosted several important meetings and events. Beyond the public panels, the lounge facilitated a practitioner and researcher gathering aimed at delving deeper into the topic of climate overshoot in the context of urban environments. This ongoing exploration is set to continue in the months and years following the conference.

The Cities Pavilion also hosted a meeting for authors and potential contributors to the IPCC Special Report on Climate Change and Cities. This session served a vital function in creating a link between the scientific research presented at the conference and the policy-relevant work undertaken by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

Bridging science and public experience

In addition to the conference sessions, Dr Dodman participated in an event on Urban Climate Adaptation. This event, organised by the City of Ōtautahi Christchurch, featured former Mayor of Christchurch Lianne Dalziel and IPCC Co-Chair Professor Winston Chow. The intention of this discussion was to bridge the scientific conference with the everyday experiences and needs of the general public, ensuring the adaptation conversation is relevant and accessible beyond the academic and policy communities.