It’s not new to say that we are living in an era of multiple and connected crises. Human-induced environmental changes have without a doubt pushed our planet’s socio-ecological systems into an era of chronic, complex, and rapid disruptions (Hukkinen et al., 2022).  

But our joint summer experiences have demonstrated a new turning point for crisis management. Cities are on the frontline facing heatwaves, wildfires, and floods, as well as pollution and resource pressures. These crises demand quick decisions and effective action. Yet, the underlying  complexity and interconnectedness of these challenges require careful, long-term thinking across disciplines and scales. 

As scientists predict another record-breaking year for 2027, the liveability of our cities in the short term is in the balance, as is the longer-term viability of cities. How can we ensure that evidence-based medium and long-term planning remains  at the heart of emergency response?