These Leaders are Making a Difference with Sustainable Cities #SDG11

May 31, 2016 11:30 AM ET

SDG 11 explores sustainable cities and communities.

This week, Global Sourcing Council's 17 Weeks for 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) explores SDG 11 with examples of corporate action.

SDG 11 calls to “Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.” Its targets address housing, slums, transport and road safety, accessibility, sustainable urbanization, cultural and natural heritage, disasters, air quality and waste management, and green public spaces.

The Global Challenge:

Cities are large-scale users of energy, water and processed and natural products. Cities generate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and produce waste beyond the planet’s regenerative and carrying capacity.

Cities also are sites of extreme deprivation for many people. Nearly 60% of urban dwellers in developing countries report being affected by crime. In addition, more than a billion people live in slums, where they experience poor housing conditions and inadequate access to basic services (e.g. sanitation, security, and clean water), health, sufficient food, decent transport, job opportunities and education. Youth and women are often worse off if they live in slums.

The Business Opportunity:

With nearly 75% of worldwide economic activity occurring in an urban setting, cities are responsible for most global consumption and production, and they drive development and economic growth.

The challenge and opportunity for economic activity in cities is to create jobs and prosperity while not straining land and resources. Investments are needed in safe and affordable housing, upgrading slum settlements, public transport, creating green public spaces, and improving urban planning and management. Most metropolitan areas and cities around the world have already started investing in sustainable innovation and streamlining their infrastructure. The real estate sector must be committed to curbing speculation and forging sustainable business approaches for equitable service delivery and resource efficiency.

Click Here to Find Examples of How Taking Action Makes a Difference such as:

  • Learn from Leaders Taking Action on SDG 11: Karibu Homes, TD Bank, Cisco, Skanska and McKinsey & Company.
     
  • Amplify your Impact through Collaboration with NGOs and Other Companies: C40 Cities Initiative and The Global Partnership for Sustainable Transport.
     
  • Join the Sustainable Sourcing Community: Become a GSC Corporate Member or Individual Community Member to Drive Results.
     
  • Highlight your Work for Sustainable Cities and Human Settlements in Sourcing: Apply Today for 2016 3S Awards - 2015 Community Engagement Nominee: Paradigm Initiative Nigeria [VIDEO]
     
  • Participate in an Upcoming Event on Sustainable Business and SDGs

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