Session 2 - SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

About the event

Approximately 75% of emissions originate from cities, whilst by 2050, urban areas are expected to house over two-thirds of the global population. Cities will therefore play a critical role in the push to achieve sustainable development. Cities are also the site of tackling local complex issues such as housing, energy, transportation, waste and water management, disaster risk reduction, air pollution, population aging, urban mobility, urban food systems and many others, while also forging innovative, inclusive, people centered planning models, harnessing local cultural and natural resources. Returning the famous phrase “Think Global, Act Local” to its origin in urban planning, this session will highlight the multiple levels at which cities operate, from urban planning policies and action at the local level driving forward solutions and positive change, to forging strategic international partnerships to increase their relevance and impact in global matters. The session will include senior representatives from governments and municipal bodies across the region who will share experiences on specific urban planning action and projects undertaken to meet the relevant SDG 11 targets, as well as representatives from international strategic partnerships who will speak to this city-based ‘new multilateralism.’