With 90% of all future population growth happening in cities, achievement of the UN SDGs will have to be addressed within the context of global urbanization. Behavior change and education are vital levers in progressing towards the future sustainable cities we want to see. In preparing for this challenge, the need for new communication methods, teaching paradigms and thought models has been identified by multiple experts across the world.

What is the best way to unlock the potential of transformative ideas in areas like urban metabolism, circular economy, and sustainability science for the community at large? If we could design programs for community outreach, K12 courses or even for reaching across professions, what would that look like?

The goal of this Discussion was to create a list of interdisciplinary resources, actions and activities appropriate for engaging a general global audience. Leveraging the diverse expertise and geographic locations of conference attendees, this Discussion highlighted the powerful potential impact of crafting your own outreach based on individual interests, passions and goals, as well as creating a support network to share ideas and mentorship opportunities.

The following were suggestions from the Discussion participants for moving forward:
1. Create an AScUS/Metabolism of Cities forum for sharing/feedback/mentoring to support pursuit and sharing of individuals’ Path to Action.
2. Develop inclusive & intersectional systems model about Urban Metabolism that functions as a bridge to collaboration with different sectors of society.