In the past couple of weeks, two global events have taken place with the aim of addressing some of the most significant challenges of our time. First was the 12th World Urban Forum (WUF), which convened in Cairo last week while right now, delegations from 192 countries are gathered in Belém, Brazil for COP30.
COP30 began with the alarming news that we are heading towards 2.3–2.5°C warming by the end of this century – some way off the 1.5°C target for the next decade (UNEP). As a result, the principle issue at this year’s event is: ‘How to prevent runaway global warming’. In Cairo, WUF12 commenced with the reflection that 55% of the global population now live in urban areas, rising to almost 70% by 2050 (UN).
These trends are interrelated – more people live in built-up areas, which, despite taking-up less than 3% of the earth’s surface, are a major contributor to climate change. There is consequently much concern about the impact of greater urbanisation on global warming.
From industrial buildings and infrastructure to sustainable communities and walkable neighbourhoods; the regeneration of a former industrial area on the Thames Estuary (©Placemake)
In response, UN-Habitat, the organisation behind WUF, launched a call to action, titled, ‘Local Actions for Sustainable Cities and Communities’, which presents ten guiding principles for delivering sustainable and inclusive homes for all.
At the same time, planning institutes around the world came together to celebrate World Town Planning Day earlier this week with the release of a collective mission statement, titled, ‘With planning we can!’. Adopting a positive, proactive approach, this also centres on the principle issues of sustainable growth and social equality.
As world leaders convene to hopefully agree on a robust and deliverable climate strategy, the warnings of previous COPs are no longer warnings - the issues are present, clear and critical. Fortunately, through integrated planning and well-designed places and spaces, so are the solutions.
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By David Edwards for Placemake, 17th November, 2025
Main image: Children playing at Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park, Greenwich Millennium Village, London (©Placemake)
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