Global Civil Society & the UN Sustainable Development Goals

Goal 11: Make cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable

Sustainable Cities & Communities


Cities are hubs for ideas, commerce, culture, science, productivity, social development and much more. At their best, cities have enabled people to advance socially and economically. With the number of people living within cities projected to rise to 5 billion people by 2030, it’s important that efficient urban planning and management practices are in place to deal with the challenges brought by urbanization.

Many challenges exist to maintaining cities in a way that continues to create jobs and prosperity without straining land and resources. Common urban challenges include congestion, lack of funds to provide basic services, a shortage of adequate housing, declining infrastructure and rising air pollution within cities.

Rapid urbanization challenges, such as the safe removal and management of solid waste within cities, can be overcome in ways that allow them to continue to thrive and grow, while improving resource use and reducing pollution and poverty. One such example is an increase in municipal waste collection. There needs to be a future in which cities provide opportunities for all, with access to basic services, energy, housing, transportation and more.

Name Acronym Founded City HQ Country/Territory HQ Type I Type II

Zeitz Foundation for Intercultural Ecosphere Safety

Zeitz Foundation 2008 Nairobi Kenya F f

Zentrum für Europäische Integrationsforschung

ZEI 1995 Bonn Germany G

Zentrum für Wissenschaftliche Kommunikation mit Ibero-America

Tübingen Germany G

Zero Energy Mass Custom Home Network

ZEMCH 2010 E

Zero Waste International Alliance

ZWIA 2003 J

Zircon Industry Association

ZIA London UK C t

Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia

1983 Mosman NSW Australia D

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