Sustainable Development Goal 11
Sustainable Cities and Communities
Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11), also known as Global Goal 11, is a part of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which was adopted by all United Nations member states in 2015. SDG 11 is aimed at making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. Recognizing the importance of urbanization as a critical driver of social and economic development, this goal acknowledges the potential of cities to generate both challenges and opportunities for sustainable development.
Targets and Indicators
SDG 11 is structured around several specific targets that aim to address various aspects of urban life:
- Safe and affordable housing: Ensure access to adequate, safe, and affordable housing and basic services for all, and upgrade slums.
- Affordable and sustainable transport systems: Provide access to safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport systems for all, improving road safety.
- Inclusive urbanization: Enhance inclusive and sustainable urbanization and capacity for participatory, integrated, and sustainable human settlement planning.
- Protection of the world's cultural and natural heritage: Strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage.
- Disaster risk reduction: Significantly reduce the number of deaths and the number of people affected by disasters.
- Environmental impact: Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including air quality and waste management.
- Green public spaces: Provide universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible, green, and public spaces.
Each target is measured by specific indicators that monitor progress towards achieving the targets by 2030.
Importance of Sustainable Urban Development
The rapid urbanization seen globally poses significant challenges to meeting basic human needs, such as housing, transportation, energy, and essential social services. To combat these challenges, sustainable urban development aims to create urban areas that are economically productive, socially inclusive, and environmentally sustainable.
Urban areas are central to many of the world’s key environmental challenges, including climate change. They are significant sources of greenhouse gas emissions, making sustainable urban practices crucial in mitigating climate effects. In response, initiatives like the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group and ICLEI are vital in advancing sustainable urban practices globally.
Role of Partnerships and Global Initiatives
The success of SDG 11 is highly dependent on partnerships and coordinated action at the local, national, and international levels. Organizations such as United Cities and Local Governments play a crucial role in implementing SDG 11 by aggregating best local practices into action plans and providing regular updates on global progress.
Furthermore, events like World Cities Day raise awareness and promote cooperation for sustainable urban development. These efforts are complemented by awards such as the UN-Habitat Scroll of Honour, which recognize outstanding contributions to sustainable cities and communities.
Related Topics
SDG 11 is a vital element of the broader framework of the Sustainable Development Goals, illustrating the interconnected nature of global efforts to achieve a sustainable future for all.