As of 2026, more than half of the world's population lives in cities. By the time you graduate from high school, that number will be even higher! Because cities are where most people live, work, and study, they also have a huge impact on our planet.
Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11) is all about making our cities and communities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
What Makes a City "Sustainable"?
A sustainable city (also called an Eco-City) is designed to meet the needs of people today without harming the environment for future generations. It focuses on three main things: People, Planet, and Prosperity.
1. Green Transportation
In a sustainable city, you don't need a car to get around. Instead, cities prioritize:
Public Transit: Efficient buses and trains that run on clean energy.
Active Travel: Safe bike lanes and wide sidewalks so people can walk or cycle.
Electric Vehicles: Charging stations powered by solar or wind energy.
2. Smart Waste & Water Management
Sustainable communities don't just "throw away" trash—they see it as a resource.
The Circular Economy: Encouraging everyone to Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.
Urban Farming: Growing food on rooftops or in community gardens to reduce "food miles."
Water Conservation: Using smart sensors to find leaks in pipes and collecting rainwater for gardens.
3. Inclusive Public Spaces
Sustainability isn't just about trees; it’s about people!
Green Spaces: Parks and playgrounds that help keep the city cool and improve our mental health.
Affordable Housing: Ensuring that everyone, regardless of how much money they have, has a safe and clean place to live.
Safety: Well-lit streets and accessible buildings for people with disabilities.
Why Is This Important for You?
Cities occupy only 3% of the Earth’s land, but they account for 75% of global carbon emissions. If we fix our cities, we fix a huge part of the climate problem. For students in Class 8, this means your future jobs might involve designing "green" buildings, managing clean energy grids, or even planning urban forests!
Did you know? Many cities are now using "Green Walls" (vertical gardens on the sides of buildings) to naturally cool down the air and provide homes for birds and bees.
How You Can Help Your Community Today
Support Local: Buy from neighborhood shops to reduce the energy used for shipping.
Be a Citizen Scientist: Use apps to track local wildlife or report air quality in your area.
Keep it Clean: Participate in or organize a local "Clean-up Drive" in your park or school.