Interconnectedness of the Goals: Goal 11 & Goal 13

Image credit: Jay-Oh

One of the most exciting aspects of the Global Goals is their interconnectedness. Previously, the multiple areas of development have been treated rather separately within their own categories. Now, however, we have a way to explore how social, environmental and economic development are all related to one another. This year, we are exploring how each goal and their associated targets need to see the achievement of each other in order to be fulfilled as a whole.

Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and Goal 13: Climate Action

Goal 11 aims to ensure human settlements, both urban and rural, are inclusive, resilient and sustainable, and Goal 13 aims to ensure we take urgent action to mitigate climate change and strengthen resilience against climate-related disasters.

The sustainability of a city or a community includes measures of environmental sustainability and the steps taken in planning and development towards mitigating climate change. There are a number of ways in which Goal 11 works towards combatting climate change.

Public transport

Target 11.2 requires that we provide access to safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transport systems for all. By increasing access to public transport, we will be decreasing the number of cars on the road, thus reducing the amount of automobile pollution affecting the environment.

Air quality and municipal waste

Target 11.6 requires that we reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management. This target is vital for the achievement of Goal 13 and the mitigation of climate change.

Green public spaces

Target 11.7 requires that we provide universal access to safe, inclusive and accessible green and public spaces. An increased number of green spaces in a city will improve the air quality of the city (Target 11.6) and therefore, contribute towards positive climate action.

The targets of Goal 11 and Goal 13 work towards social and economic sustainability in Target 11.5: By 2030, significantly reduce the number of deaths and the number of people affected and substantially decrease the direct economic losses relative to global gross domestic product caused by disasters, including water-related disasters, with a focus on protecting the poor and people in vulnerable situations.

To find out more about these two goals and their interrelatedness, you can read more by visiting #Goal11: #SustainableCities and #SustainableCommunities and #Goal13: #ClimateAction.

This article was originally published on the Global Goals Australia Campaign website.

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