With rapid population growth and urbanisation, cities around the world are battlegrounds for our fight against climate change. The latest IPCC report highlights that integrated urban planning can reduce emissions by 23-26% by 2050. Sprawl and congestion must be transformed into density and connectivity; pollution must be restored to clean air; and car-dominated roads and highways must give way to people-centric streets and nature-friendly neighbourhoods. Emerging models like the “15-minute” city focus on urban proximity and quality of life, and represent a turning point, envisioning a future where cities are built in harmony with nature and people. This session convenes city leaders, pioneering thinkers and urban innovators that are turning this vision into reality.