SDG 11-Sustainable Cities and Communities is about making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. Today, more than half the world’s population live in cities. By 2050, an estimated 7 out of 10 people will likely live in urban areas. Cities are drivers of economic growth and contribute more than 80 per cent of global GDP. However, they also account for more than 70 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions. If well-planned and managed, urban development can be sustainable and can generate inclusive prosperity. The deep inequalities exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic and other cascading crises highlight the importance of sustainable urban development. Strengthening the preparedness and resilience of cities is crucial in responding to future crises.

To achieve SDG 11, Sustainable Cities and Communities various actions could be taken:

• Policy and Regulation: Governments can develop and enforce policies and regulations that support sustainable urban development, affordable housing, and sustainable transport systems.
• Infrastructure Development: Investments should be made in building and upgrading infrastructure, including transport networks, energy-efficient buildings, and green spaces.
• Community Engagement: Engaging communities and stakeholders in the planning and decision-making processes fosters a sense of ownership and ensures that development initiatives meet local needs and aspirations.
• Knowledge and Capacity Building: Promoting education and awareness on sustainable urban development, providing training and capacity-building opportunities, and sharing best practices among cities and communities.
• Collaboration and Partnerships: Collaboration among governments, civil society organizations, businesses, and international institutions is crucial to mobilize resources, share expertise, and promote innovative solutions for sustainable cities and communities.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Regularly monitoring progress, collecting data, and evaluating the impact of interventions are essential to track the achievement of SDG 11, Sustainable Cities and Communities targets and make necessary adjustments to strategies and policies.

• Engage with Local Government: Get involved in local government initiatives, attend public meetings, and voice your concerns and ideas related to sustainable urban development. Participate in community planning processes and advocate for sustainable policies and practices.
• Support Public Transportation and Active Transportation: Utilize public transportation systems, such as buses, trams, or trains, whenever possible. If feasible, consider cycling or walking for shorter distances. Encouraging and promoting sustainable modes of transportation helps reduce traffic congestion and air pollution in cities.
• Practice Energy Efficiency: Conserve energy at home by using energy-efficient appliances, turning off lights and electronics when not in use, and insulating your home to reduce heating and cooling needs. Lowering your energy consumption reduces the overall environmental impact of cities.
• Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle: Practice the 3Rs (reduce, reuse, and recycle) to minimize waste generation. Opt for reusable products, separate recyclables, and compost organic waste. This helps reduce the burden on landfills and promotes a circular economy.
• Support Local Businesses and Agriculture: Buy locally produced goods and support local businesses to strengthen the local economy and reduce carbon emissions associated with long-distance transportation. Consider consuming more locally sourced and seasonal food to support sustainable agriculture practices.
• Advocate for Green Spaces and Biodiversity: Support initiatives that promote and protect green spaces, such as parks, gardens, and urban forests. Participate in tree planting activities and engage in efforts to preserve biodiversity within your community.
• Educate and Raise Awareness: Share information about SDG 11 and sustainable cities and communities with friends, family, and colleagues. Use social media platforms, organize local events, or join community groups to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable urban development.
• Engage in Sustainable Urban Design: If you have the opportunity to participate in urban design projects or renovations, advocate for sustainable design principles, such as green building practices, energy-efficient infrastructure, and inclusive public spaces.
• Adopt Water Conservation Practices: Conserve water at home by fixing leaks, using water-saving fixtures, and practicing responsible water usage. Promote water conservation in your community by organizing workshops and campaigns.
• Promote Inclusivity and Social Equity: Advocate for affordable housing initiatives, support organizations that work towards eradicating homelessness, and promote social equity in urban development. Encourage diverse representation and inclusive decision-making processes in your community.

Inspirational Practice: “Car – free”, “car – restricted” zones in several European city centers

Cities like Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and Oslo have implemented policies and infrastructure changes to prioritize pedestrians, cyclists, and public transportation over private cars in their city centers. These car-free or car-restricted zones are designed to create safer, more sustainable, and livable urban environments.

For example, in the city of Copenhagen, Denmark, the district of Strøget is a well-known car-free zone. It consists of a network of pedestrian streets, offering a vibrant and enjoyable experience for pedestrians. The car-free zone encourages walking, cycling, and the use of public transport, reducing traffic congestion, noise pollution, and carbon emissions. It also promotes social interactions, supports local businesses, and enhances the overall quality of life in the city.

Similarly, Oslo, Norway, has made significant strides in creating a car-restricted city center. Through its initiative called “Oslo City Center Car-Free,” the city has implemented a car-restricted zone with limited access for private vehicles. This effort aims to prioritize pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport, creating a more sustainable and people-centric city center.

These examples from Europe highlight how car-free or car-restricted zones can transform urban areas into sustainable and pedestrian-friendly environments. They demonstrate that by prioritizing active transportation and public transit, cities can improve air quality, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance the overall livability of urban spaces. These practices serve as inspiration for other cities worldwide to rethink their transportation strategies and work towards more sustainable and people-centered urban planning.