Globally, urban growth is rapid and unequal. There is a risk that rapid urban expansion may undo national efforts to achieve the SDGs and the New Urban Agenda. The challenge is to ensure that rapid urbanization becomes a story of social justice and a renewed contract with nature.
Cities themselves are not the issue. It is how they are planned, designed, innovated, managed and governed that define their quality of life. The urban transition can be an opportunity to change the way cities are organized to deliver on the green transition by harnessing the engagement of citizens. 70% of all the infrastructure in 2030 is yet to be built. Decision-makers need to realize that they have the power to either support resilience, equality and low-carbon development by the decisions they make today. Their indecision or lack of conviction will deprive future generations of a better future. It is really that simple.