Cities are complex systems. The components of urban systems, from food distribution networks and energy grids to transport and greenways, are interconnected and dynamic. Intervening to create change in any one of these components may impact others, creating systemic change. Designing solutions that take these interconnections into account is critical to sustainable development. The five ICLEI pathways towards low emission, nature-based, equitable, resilient and circular development are designed to create systemic change. This is how ICLEI is approaching nature-based sustainable development.