Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11) aims to “make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable” by 2030. This encompasses various targets, including providing adequate housing, promoting affordable and sustainable transportation systems, and ensuring access to green spaces and public services. Analyzing the progress made by different countries is crucial to assess the path forward.
Top 5 Countries Leading in SDG 11:
- Finland (86.76): Boasts well-planned cities with high levels of clean air, green spaces, and efficient public transportation. (Source: Sustainable Development Report 2023)
- Denmark (85.68): Prioritizes sustainable urban design with focus on walkable neighborhoods, cycling infrastructure, and energy-efficient buildings. (Source: Sustainable Development Report 2023)
- Sweden (85.43): Invests in innovative solutions for waste management, water conservation, and renewable energy in cities. (Source: Sustainable Development Report 2023)
- Norway (85.08): Promotes inclusive housing policies and ensures access to basic services for all residents, including marginalized groups. (Source: Sustainable Development Report 2023)
- Slovenia (84.17): Achieves high levels of public satisfaction with urban environments and prioritizes community engagement in city planning. (Source: Sustainable Development Report 2023)
India’s Progress:
India’s SDG 11 score stands at 66.32, ranking it 108th globally. While the country has made strides in expanding access to housing and improving public transportation, challenges remain in addressing issues like air pollution, waste management, and slum formation.
Key Achievements:
- Implemented the Smart Cities Mission to develop 100 cities with sustainable infrastructure and technology-driven solutions. (Source: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs)
- Launched the Swachh Bharat Mission to improve sanitation and waste management in urban areas. (Source: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs)
- Expanded public transportation networks, including metro systems and bus rapid transit systems, in major cities. (Source: Ministry of Urban Development)
Areas for Improvement:
- Air pollution levels remain high in many cities, posing a significant health risk to residents. (Source: World Health Organization)
- Slums house over 65 million people in India, highlighting the need for affordable and decent housing for all. (Source: UN Habitat)
- Waste management infrastructure is inadequate, leading to pollution and environmental damage. (Source: Central Pollution Control Board)
What India Can Do:
- Strengthen environmental regulations and enforce stricter pollution control measures.
- Invest in clean energy solutions and promote sustainable urban planning practices.
- Expand access to affordable housing and improve living conditions in slums.
- Develop efficient waste management systems and promote recycling and composting.
- Empower local communities to participate in city planning and decision-making processes.
Source of Information:
- Sustainable Development Report 2023: https://dashboards.sdgindex.org/
- Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs: https://mohua.gov.in/
- World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/
- UN Habitat: https://unhabitat.org/
- Central Pollution Control Board: https://cpcb.nic.in/
By addressing these challenges and prioritizing sustainable urban development, India can strive towards achieving SDG 11 and create inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities for its citizens.