Global Scans · Sustainable Cities and Communities · Weekly Summary

In September 2015, 193 world leaders agreed to 17 Global Goals for Sustainable Development. If these Goals are completed, it would mean an end to extreme poverty, inequality and climate change by 2030.
Goal 11. Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.

• [New] As urbanization continues to expand globally, understanding and addressing the urban heat island effect will be crucial in creating sustainable and resilient cities. Life Technology
• [New] With the potential to predict and prevent disasters, improve resource efficiency, and enhance the quality of life for communities around the world, digital twins are at the forefront of the sustainable development movement. Open Association of Research Society, United States
• [New] A sustainable global UBI, designed with fairness and broad participation in mind, could foster greater social cohesion and reduce crime rates, leading to more stable and harmonious communities. Forbes
• Rapid motorization in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities could mirror the congestion and pollution patterns of metros unless sustainable mobility solutions are integrated early. Autocar Professional
• By proactively adapting to stricter regulations, leveraging disruptive technologies, and engaging communities, coal mining companies can meet the world's evolving energy and industrial needs while building a more sustainable and accountable future. Farmonaut
• The real estate sector is expected to provide strong, sustainable, and inclusive human settlements as India's demand for urban spaces is increasing rapidly. Springer Nature Singapore
• With over 60% of Zimbabwe's population projected to live in cities by 2030, developers are under growing pressure to deliver smart, sustainable, and affordable housing solutions. Business Times
• Cities like Copenhagen, Singapore, and Amsterdam, which are already leading in sustainable urban planning today, will serve as models for global transformation. Earth
• Agroecological methods offer a sustainable path forward for Uganda's agriculture sector especially as climate change intensifies the vulnerabilities of rural farmers. Nilepost News
• The cooling metafilm represents a breakthrough in sustainable materials engineering that could help combat rising global temperatures and hotter cities. Home
• The new long-distance electric trains will connect Prague, Pilsen, and western Bohemian cities such as Klatovy and Cheb along two routes, helping to shorten journey times and provide a more attractive, sustainable alternative to travelling by car. Premier Construction News
• Kochi's Tram Initiative: The planned reintroduction of trams in Kochi could serve as a model for sustainable urban mobility, offering lower operational costs and reduced dependency on subsidies. EDUREV.IN
• As cities grapple with congestion and pollution, the potential for a sustainable and scalable Robotaxi service presents an enticing opportunity for both Tesla and urban planners alike. TSLA Investors
• Southeast Asia's urban population is expected to reach 400 million by 2030, creating demand for smart infrastructure, sustainable food systems, and experiential tourism. Ainvest
• As India aims to become a developed country by 2047, a crucial question arises: whether walkable cities should be a part of the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision for economic and sustainable development. OBSERVER RESEARCH FOUNDATION ( ORF )
• Sustainable agribusiness could reduce agricultural waste by up to 40% by 2025, empowering eco-friendly communities. Farmonaut
• Over 60% of rural farms in the UK and India will adopt AI-powered data analytics for sustainable agriculture by 2025. Farmonaut
• The project, set to begin passenger operations in 2026, connects all seven emirates and key cities, aiming to improve connectivity, support economic growth, boost social cohesion, and advance sustainable transportation nationwide. / UAE The Times Of India
• With a commitment to sustainable tourism, Africa Natural Tours provides unique opportunities to connect with local communities while appreciating Rwanda's rich biodiversity. The Ultimate Guide to Rwanda Tours in August 2025 - Afr
• As the world grapples with urban congestion and environmental challenges, autonomous vehicles could emerge as a sustainable alternative. ilovetesla.com
• The theme-based cities will be a bold step towards sustainable urban innovation. The Times Of India
• The Asia-Pacific region is expected to register the fastest growth, propelled by rapid urban expansion, infrastructure modernization, and large-scale government initiatives targeting efficient and sustainable urban mobility. Credence Research Inc.
• The Etihad Rail passenger service, launching in 2026, is set to revolutionize travel in the UAE, offering fast, sustainable, and comfortable transport across 11 cities. Hammer Mindset

Last updated: 08 September 2025