“If humanity wages war against nature, sustainable cities cannot be discussed” - panel session
Baku, May 17, AZERTAC
A panel session titled “Housing for Environmentally Sustainable and Resilient Urban Development” was held on May 17 as part of the 13th Session of the United Nations World Urban Forum (WUF13).
The panel addressed the intersection between housing and climate action, focusing on low-carbon, sustainable housing systems and alignment with global climate commitments.
Speakers emphasized that if humanity wages war against nature, it is impossible to speak of sustainable cities. They warned that if current trends continue, the impacts of climate change will intensify further. At the same time, they stressed the importance of governments implementing housing policies based on affordability and social equity, ensuring that housing programs are sustainable and long-term in nature.
The discussion also highlighted the importance of proper urban planning and fostering a cooperative relationship between humans and nature. Speakers further noted that it is difficult to speak of sustainable housing policy without a sound land policy, emphasizing that fair and strategic land-use management is a key prerequisite for sustainable urban development.