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The document argues that cities are becoming primary actors in achieving climate mitigation and adaptation goals. It emphasizes that science provides essential support to local policymakers through first-hand information and the application of ad hoc methodologies. Case studies presented in the work demonstrate diverse opportunities for collaboration between scientific research and municipal-level policy, suggesting that the urban scale is an effective level for establishing multi-level links between these fields.

The policy brief highlights the critical role of cities in achieving climate change containment and adaptation goals. It asserts that science can assist local policymakers by providing high-quality information and developing specialized methodologies. The authors argue that the urban scale is an ideal environment for strengthening the link between scientific research and policy implementation.

The document highlights the role of science in achieving urban climate objectives under the Basque Declaration, while noting that divergent interests between science and policy, as well as the difficulty of balancing scientific rigor with practical applicability, present both challenges and opportunities.

The document argues that zero carbon buildings (ZCBs) are attainable globally through various policy pathways focused on operational carbon emissions. It emphasizes the leadership role of cities and suggests that ZCB goals are more achievable when definitions expand beyond individual building boundaries to include off-site clean energy or portfolio-wide considerations. The research utilizes policy reviews and stakeholder consultations from India, China, Mexico, and Kenya to demonstrate that feasible ZCB pathways exist across diverse national and subnational policy contexts.