Cities are the engines of economic growth and the largest contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions. As the world population continues to grow, urban areas are expected to house over two-thirds of the population by 2050, which poses a significant challenge for sustainable development. The South Asian region is no exception, and it is important to prioritize sustainable urban development strategies to address these issues. Hence, it is essential to focus on urban sustainability to reduce carbon emissions, adapt to climate change, and create livable cities for all.
According to the United Nations, cities consume 78% of the world’s energy and produce more than 60% of greenhouse gas emissions. Urban areas also face increasing pressure from climate change impacts, such as rising sea levels, heat waves, floods, and droughts. These impacts can threaten the health, safety, and livelihoods of millions of people, especially those living in informal settlements or slums.

Therefore, urban sustainability is not only an environmental issue but also a social and economic one. It requires a holistic and integrated approach that considers the interconnections between human and natural systems, as well as the trade-offs and synergies among different goals and stakeholders.