Leading Sustainability Transitions: the example of Sustainable Infrastructures

The third session of the UNIGE – UNOG Conversations with Academia series, organized by the University of Geneva (UNIGE) and the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG), took place in the past. This session focused on the crucial theme of sustainable infrastructures.

Acknowledging that infrastructure plays a foundational role in global economic and human development, the session delved into its significance for countries and cities in achieving their Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) targets. The types of infrastructure deployed, and their interactions were recognized for their substantial impacts on climate, terrestrial and marine biodiversity, and the ecosystem services crucial for human well-being. Additionally, the design of infrastructure projects was acknowledged to produce various social impacts, including effects on employment, poverty reduction, and inequality.

The interactive session provided a platform to discuss the latest research on the transition to sustainable infrastructures, considering both the challenges and opportunities in ensuring that critical infrastructures contribute to achieving the SDGs and supporting broader sustainability agendas. The session aimed to foster a comprehensive understanding of the role of infrastructures in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and their impact on various aspects of our world.

Participating in this session:

Speakers

Dr. Alexandre B. HEDJAZI, PhD, Senior Lecturer, Institute for Environmental Sciences. University of Geneva, Director GEPP programme, UNIGE – UN Environment International Affairs, University of Geneva   
Gulnara ROLL, Head, Housing and Land Management Unit,Forests, Land and Housing Division, United Nations Economic Commission for Europe 
Rowan PALMER ,Programme Specialist,Economic and Fiscal Policy Unit, Economy Division, South-South Cooperation Unit, Policy and Programme Division, UN Environment 

Moderator

Natalie ALEXANDER, Knowledge & Learning Commons, UN Library & Archives Geneva.