The Sixth International Human Dimensions Workshop (IHDW) was held in New Delhi from 11-16 October 2008. The training workshop offered a unique opportunity for the promotion of young and mid-career scientists from all regions of the world, particularly those from developing countries and emerging economies. Participants from 32 different countries took part in five well-attended training seminars covering topics that have been identified as some of the most prominent research areas in the human dimensions of global environmental change: Urban Health, Sustainability through Systems Innovation, Sustainable Adaptation to Climate Change, Ecosystems Services, and Adaptive Water Management. During the workshops, participants were able to learn from well-known researchers and interact intensively with one another. Additionally, the participants had the chance to interact with members of the IHDP Scientific Committee through a “Meet the Senior” session.