Health and wellbeing in the changing urban environment: complex challenges, scientific responses, and the way forward

► Urban environments play an essential role in shaping human health and wellbeing. ► A systems approach is required in understanding the many linkages between health and wellbeing and urban environments. ► We present the new program on Health and Wellbeing in the Changing Urban Environment launched by the International Council for Science (ICSU). ► We discuss several essential elements for the success of this initiative, including adopting a broadly defined systems approach, integrating social science perspectives, adopting transdisciplinary and participatory approaches, establishing long term monitoring and data bases, and promoting innovative practices and cross city learning.