Why it matters
Cities are hubs for ideas, commerce, culture, and productivity. Well-planned urban development can bring enormous benefits, while unplanned urbanization leads to pollution, congestion, and inequality.
Key facts
- 4.5B4.5 billion people lived in urban areas in 2023, over half the global population.Source: UN SDG Report 2024
- 75%Cities consume over 75% of global energy and produce 70% of CO2 emissions.Source: UN SDG Report 2024
- 52%Only 52% of urban residents have convenient access to public transport.Source: UN SDG Report 2024
What the world agreed to
Key targets for Goal 11. The full list, with indicators, is on the UN's site.
See all targets on sdgs.un.org- Ensure access to adequate, safe, and affordable housing for all
- Provide safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport systems
- Enhance inclusive and sustainable urbanization and planning
- Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities
Take action on Goal 11
Campaigns on this goal
Things you can do this week
Community
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Who leads globally
4 UN agencies and international organizations work on Goal 11.
- ICAOInternational Civil Aviation OrganizationSets international standards for civil aviation safety and security.
- UNEPUnited Nations Environment ProgrammeSets the global environmental agenda and promotes sustainable development.
- UNESCOUN Educational, Scientific and Cultural OrganizationBuilds peace through education, science, culture and communication.
- UN-HabitatUnited Nations Human Settlements ProgrammePromotes socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities.
Closely connected goals
Progress here moves together with these goals.