From Science to Practice: UBDPolicy Explores Pathways to Urban Impact

A two-day workshop brought together researchers, policymakers, city representatives, public health professionals, NGOs and civil society organisations to explore how scientific evidence can be more effectively translated into urban policy and practice

This month, the UBDPolicy project hosted the workshop “How to Make Impact: From Science to Practice – Bridging the Gap Between Research and Real-World Action to Create Healthier, More Sustainable Cities” at the Parc de Recerca Biomèdica de Barcelona (PRBB).

Organised by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), the two-day workshop brought together researchers, policymakers, city representatives, public health professionals, NGOs and civil society organisations to explore how scientific evidence can be more effectively translated into urban policy and practice.

The workshop showcased examples of evidence-informed urban interventions, including sustainable mobility, low-emission zones, urban greening and climate adaptation, while encouraging discussion on the challenges and opportunities of implementing these interventions at scale.

The workshop focused on a critical question: how can scientific evidence be transformed into meaningful action?

Participants explored effective pathways for knowledge translation, including policy briefs, infographics, communication campaigns, stakeholder engagement and city–science collaborations. Discussions also highlighted the importance of tailoring research outputs to policymakers’ needs, aligning research with political decision-making timelines, and strengthening partnerships between researchers, practitioners and local authorities.

The workshop provided a valuable opportunity to exchange experiences and identify practical recommendations for improving the translation of research into policy and practice. A recurring message throughout the sessions was that producing high-quality evidence is only the first step, maximising impact requires effective communication, collaboration and co-creation with those responsible for implementing change.

The UBDPolicy team extends its thanks to all participants for contributing to two days of inspiring discussions and looks forward to building on the insights generated to support healthier, more sustainable cities across Europe.