Air and water pollution are closely connected urban challenges, affecting public health, climate resilience and social equity. Addressing them requires cities to understand how decisions in one area influence outcomes across the wider urban environment.
This insight explores how systems thinking can help urban leaders connect policies, infrastructure and innovation across air and water systems. Drawing on examples from urban mobility, integrated water management and nature-based solutions, it examines how coordinated action can deliver multiple benefits. Green roofs, for instance, can manage stormwater while supporting air quality, cooling and biodiversity. The article identifies practical starting points for cities, including collaboration across sectors, shared objectives and a clearer understanding of trade-offs.
