11
Sustainable Cities and Economies Written by Martina Francula Illustration by Angela Yau
What’s the Problem?
What’s the Goal?
The world is becoming increasingly urbanized. Since 2007, more than half the world’s population has been living in cities, and that share is projected to rise to 60 per cent by 2030. Rapid urbanization is resulting in a growing number of slum dwellers, inadequate and overburdened infrastructure and services, worsening air pollution and unplanned urban sprawl. 9 in 10 people living in urban areas worldwide were breathing air that did not meet the World Health Organization’s air quality guidelines.
The goal is to make cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable and everyone can do something that will help achieve this goal. You can take an active interest in the governance and management of your city. Advocate for the kind of city you believe you need. Develop a vision for your building, street, and neighbourhood, and act on that vision. Today, we need this more than ever.
COVID-19 did not make this better. Cities are on the front line of coping with the pandemic and its lasting impacts. Across the globe, COVID-19 is threatening cities and communities, endangering not only public health, but also the economy and the fabric of society. Over 90 per cent of COVID-19 cases are occurring in urban areas, with the 1 billion residents of the world’s densely populated slums being hit the hardest.
23 Green Zine 2021
Sustainable Development Goals