“Our research shows that limiting overshoot & returning below 1.5°C is still possible, but only if emissions fall quickly and clean-energy deployment accelerates. With every delay, the challenge grows and the reliance on carbon removal increases,” says IIASA Keywan Riahi, Program Director at IIASA.

The statement highlights five insights:
📈 Overshoot of 1.5°C is unavoidable but still reversible
🏛️ Stronger policies & cooperation can narrow the emissions gap
📉 By 2035, emissions must fall and solar and wind power need expansion
🌍 All countries need to raise ambition
🛡️ Adaptation must accelerate

Read the full story here: www.washingtonpost.com/climate-envi...

The editorial also highlights insights from the EU-funded Urban ReLeaf project, where IIASA works with six European cities to co-design campaigns on air pollution, heat stress, and green infrastructure.

The authors identify five priority areas where city science can take a leap forward:
📱 Tech- & data-assisted participation
🧑‍🦽 Inclusive engagement
🤝 Purpose-driven alliances
💬 Collaborative sense-making
📊 Integration into urban reporting

Congratulations to all colleagues included on this year’s list! We look forward to the next phases of scientific work and impact that this recognition inspires 👏👏