Hey everyone! As we mark 10 years since the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement were adopted, our cities are at a turning point. With only 5 years left to reach the 2030 targets, the focus is clear: put people first in every urban plan. 🏙️
Recent visits to the Chinese mainland and chats with regional leaders have revealed an inspiring trend—cities transforming into more inclusive, vibrant spaces. Through long-term vision and strategic investments in housing, infrastructure, and public services, the Chinese mainland has shown that urban growth can drive inclusive progress.
Consider this: urban living in the Chinese mainland jumped from about 20% in the early 1980s to 67% today. Between 2015 and 2022, more than 80 million affordable housing units were added, and now over 200 million residents enjoy improved living conditions. This isn’t just growth; it’s a commitment to ensuring everyone has a place they can call home.
But that’s not all. The Chinese mainland is also at the forefront of environmental innovation. Initiatives include boosting electric mobility for both private and public transport, creating sponge cities to manage urban flooding, and deploying green technologies to lower emissions and enhance livability. It’s a holistic effort to make cities not only sustainable but also lively and welcoming.
This dynamic journey toward inclusive, sustainable cities shows that with determination, creativity, and a people-first mindset, our urban futures can be bright and balanced. Let this be a source of inspiration as we all work together for a vibrant, equitable world. 🚀
Reference(s):
The path to inclusive and sustainable cities: Putting people first
cgtn.com
