We are beginning to feel the impacts of climate change. In addition to the wide range of political, social, and economic concerns that climate change is sparking in our communities, we are faced with the invisible threat of extreme heat on our society and the built environment. The ULI Boston/New England report that you are about to read focuses on the consequences of climate change in the Greater Boston area—specifically, extreme heat and its ancillary issues.

The ideas contained here are representative of the opinions and thought leadership of 70+ industry experts, including engineers, architects, and real estate development professionals, in consultation with community stakeholders. These experts met for a day-long conversation to develop integrated solutions for a future with increased heat as a frequent and pervasive part of our daily lives.

This one-day event was followed by months of discussion, and this report is the result of our collective efforts. We accept that extreme heat will be more common, the weather is changing, and our communities are at risk; and we recognize that no solution can be all-encompassing. It is our hope that this report will spark conversation, shift our understanding of what is possible, and aid us in reframing challenges into opportunities as we move toward this new reality.