A comprehensive review of over 50,000 urban climate studies worldwide has reshaped our understanding of urban climate change.
Led by Montfort, Callaghan, Creutzig, and collaborators, the meta-analysis sets a new standard for evaluating urban climate research.
Published in Nature Cities in 2025, the review consolidates decades of data into a cohesive framework, highlighting patterns and priorities in urban climate research.
The review reveals geographical imbalances in urban climate research, urging a shift towards including underrepresented areas in the Global South.
Thematic concentrations include urban heat island effects, highlighting the need for more research on urban water security and flooding.
The review emphasizes exploring co-benefits of climate action in urban settings, framing interventions as opportunities for holistic urban renewal.
It delineates varying scales of urban climate phenomena and policies, advocating for context-sensitive solutions at local, citywide, and regional levels.
Methodological advances from observational studies to big data analytics are noted, emphasizing the importance of methodological pluralism in urban climate research.
The review underscores the importance of data accessibility and transparency, addressing challenges related to data standardization and equity in data generation.
The work offers evidence-based guidance for policymakers, climate finance institutions, and donors, encouraging collaborations and optimizing resource distribution.