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Every year on October 31st, World Cities Day highlights the vital role urban centers play in advancing global development and promoting sustainable living. Established by the United Nations in 2013, this annual observance is part of a broader initiative called Urban October, which aims to foster dialogue and inspire action around sustainable urban growth. The origins of World Cities Day can be traced back to the success of Habitat III, the UN’s Conference on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development, which introduced the New Urban Agenda—a global framework designed to guide cities in improving housing, infrastructure, and overall quality of life.
Cities are projected to house 70% of the world’s population by 2050, facing unprecedented challenges in the context of climate change. By 2030, an estimated 60% of people will live in urban areas, with up to 60% of urban dwellers under 18. Despite progress toward Sustainable Development Goals, cities, particularly in the Global South, continue to grapple with poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation, necessitating urgent action.
The theme for World Cities Day 2024, Urban Finance for a Sustainable Urban Future, emphasizes the crucial role that creative financing plays in helping cities grow sustainably. As urban areas continue to expand, they face pressing issues, including climate-related impacts, infrastructure demands, social inequality, and housing shortages. Sustainable urban finance prioritizes investments in key areas such as renewable energy, public transit, green spaces, affordable housing, and digital infrastructure. These investments help build cities that are resilient and adaptable to environmental and economic changes.
Central to this goal is UN Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11), which calls for cities and human settlements that are inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable by 2030. Around the world, cities are adopting initiatives that reduce emissions, improve resource efficiency, and incorporate green technologies. For example, Bogotá, Colombia, and Copenhagen, Denmark, serve as leading examples. Bogotá has pioneered a highly efficient bus rapid transit system, known as TransMilenio, which has significantly lowered CO₂ emissions and eased traffic congestion. The city also boasts over 500 kilometers of bike lanes, encouraging cycling as a green transportation option.
Ultimately, World Cities Day serves as a reminder of the critical role sustainable urban policies play in addressing global challenges. With well-planned financial strategies, supportive policies, and international cooperation, cities can drive the world toward a future that is greener, more inclusive, and prosperous for all.
It is the responsibility of all governments, public and private institutions, NGOs, industry sectors, the media, and ultimately all civil and social actors to ensure that cities, especially their suburbs, are safe and livable areas for all citizens. This responsibility is particularly important for vulnerable individuals and groups, such as persons with disabilities, the elderly, children, and women, especially pregnant women.
Reference:
https://www.un.org/en/observances/cities-day
By: Natalia Vega, Roya Institute representative in Costa Rica