World Habitat Day
Oct 7 & Urban October

World Habitat Day

Description of Issue

Resilient urban economies. Cities as drivers of growth and recovery

World Habitat Day is held on the first Monday of October and launches Urban October.  The theme for this year’s World Habitat Day is Resilient urban economies. Cities as drivers of growth and recovery. The theme recognizes that cities are responsible for some 70 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions with transport, buildings, energy, and waste management accounting for the bulk of urban greenhouse gas emissions and will look at how cities can position their economies to benefit residents. Events and activities during World Habitat Day will explore how national, regional and local governments and organizations, communities, academic institutions, the private sector and all relevant stakeholders can work together to create sustainable, carbon-neutral, inclusive cities and towns.

Urban October

On 7 October 2024, the Global Observance of World Habitat Day, will be under the theme “Engaging youth to create a better urban future.” The world is rapidly urbanizing, and many urban residents these days are young people, especially in some countries in Africa and Asia. It will focus on how we can engage the new generation in planning their urban present and future through participatory processes and local leadership opportunities.

More Information:

https://urbanoctober.unhabitat.org/whd

Brief Highlight

Background

The United Nations designated the first Monday of October of every year as World Habitat Day to reflect on the state of our habitats, and on the basic right of all to adequate shelter. The Day is also intended to remind the world that we all have the power and the responsibility to shape the future of our cities and towns. In 1985 the United Nations designated the first Monday of October every year as World Habitat Day. The idea is to reflect on the state of our towns and cities and the basic right of all to adequate shelter. It is also intended to remind the world of its collective responsibility for the future of the human habitat.

Description of Action

On 7 October 2024, the Global Observance of World Habitat Day, will be under the theme “Engaging youth to create a better urban future.” The world is rapidly urbanizing, and many urban residents these days are young people, especially in some countries in Africa and Asia. It will focus on how we can engage the new generation in planning their urban present and future through participatory processes and local leadership opportunities.