News

Supporting cities in achieving climate-friendly and just futures

Expert Simone Sandholz explains how overcoming urban challenges requires systemic approaches, policy integration and strong national support.

While global multilateral efforts are crucial, the focus often overlooks the pivotal role of cities and local levels where Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are implemented. Cities contribute 75% of global CO2 emissions, but can also be powerful drivers of climate action.

Despite urban networks pushing for better SDG 11 (inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities) implementation, a lag in SDG progress has been revealed. This lag is exacerbated by urbanization, climate change and inequalities. In an article published by the IISD SDG Knowledge Hub, our expert Simone Sandholz explains how overcoming challenges requires systemic approaches, policy integration and strong national support to ensure inclusive and sustainable urban transformations.

The SDG Knowledge Hub is an online resource center for news and commentary regarding the implementation of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Please find the article here.

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