As urban populations continue to rise, the world faces unprecedented challenges in housing, infrastructure, and sustainability. Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11) aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. With more than half of the global population living in urban areas—and this number expected to reach 70% by 2050—cities are at the heart of both the world’s problems and solutions.
Cities are engines of economic growth, innovation, and cultural exchange. However, they are also hotspots of inequality, pollution, and environmental degradation. Rapid urbanization often outpaces planning, leading to overcrowded slums, inadequate housing, poor sanitation, and unsafe living conditions. Over 1 billion people today live in informal settlements, with limited access to essential services and secure tenure.
SDG 11 promotes inclusive urban planning that prioritizes affordable housing, sustainable transport systems, green public spaces, and disaster risk reduction. Urban development must reflect the needs of all residents, including women, children, persons with disabilities, migrants, and the elderly. Accessibility and equity must be central to planning decisions.
Public transport is vital to sustainable cities. Efficient, reliable, and affordable transit reduces emissions, eases congestion, and connects people to jobs, schools, and services. Walkable and bike-friendly infrastructure further enhances health and mobility while lowering carbon footprints.
Resilience is another key focus. Cities must be prepared for natural disasters, rising sea levels, extreme heat, and other climate risks. Investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, early warning systems, and disaster recovery plans is critical. At the same time, historic preservation, cultural heritage protection, and inclusive governance are essential for maintaining social cohesion.
Smart technologies, digital infrastructure, and data-driven governance can revolutionize urban management—improving energy efficiency, reducing waste, and optimizing resource use. But digital solutions must be deployed with equity in mind, ensuring that all residents benefit.
Ultimately, sustainable cities are not just environmentally sound—they are places where people can live with dignity, opportunity, and a strong sense of community. SDG 11 challenges us to reimagine how we design and manage our urban spaces in harmony with people and the planet.