Our work on SDG Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Learn about our recent progress and updates on how we're contributing to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development was adopted in 2015 by all United Nations member states. It provides a blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet.
Find out more about our work across all the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
About Sustainable Cities and Communities
Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.
Research
Age-friendly businesses could revitalise Britain's high streets
In 2024, the University of Stirling contributed to a UKRI-funded initiative aimed at transforming Britain’s high streets into more inclusive and age-friendly environments. The research explored how businesses can adapt their services - such as offering quiet hours, accessible layouts, and staff training - to better serve older adults. This aligns directly with SDG 11 by promoting inclusive urban spaces that support ageing populations, enhance accessibility, and stimulate local economies. The findings suggest that such adaptations could generate significant economic benefits while fostering more resilient and socially cohesive communities.
Addressing the housing shortage for older people
In 2024, the University of Stirling played a key role in a national report that highlighted the critical shortage of suitable housing for older adults in the UK. The research called for a dramatic increase in the construction of later-living homes and advocated for a coordinated, long-term strategy involving policymakers, developers, and researchers. This work supports SDG 11 by addressing the need for safe, affordable, and accessible housing that enables older individuals to live independently and remain integrated within their communities. It also underscores the importance of planning urban environments that are inclusive and adaptable to demographic shifts.
Community Catapult in Clackmannanshire
The launch of the Community Catapult in Clackmannanshire in 2024 marked a major step forward in empowering local communities through research-led innovation. This initiative is part of a £10 million UK-wide programme designed to strengthen community leadership and participation. It supports SDG 11 by enabling diverse groups - including charities, voluntary organisations, and residents - to co-create solutions for local challenges. The project enhances urban sustainability by promoting inclusive decision-making, social equity, and community resilience, all of which are essential components of sustainable cities.
Learning and teaching
MSc Housing Studies
The UK housing sector needs talented, qualified professionals to tackle key issues, such housing shortages, increasing homelessness, and legislative developments like the Social Housing Regulation Act 2023. Our MSc / PgDip Housing Studies is aimed at those looking to start a career in housing, providing work experience and accreditation whilst also addressing key housing challenges such as facilitating sustainable communities and considering the health and wellbeing of tenants.
MSc Heritage Studies
Stirling’s MSc Heritage course plays a vital role in advancing SDG 11 by equipping students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to conserve and manage cultural heritage in ways that support inclusive, resilient, and sustainable communities. Through interdisciplinary teaching, fieldwork, and partnerships with organisations such as the National Trust for Scotland and Stirling City Heritage Trust, students explore how heritage contributes to community identity, wellbeing, and sustainable urban development. The course fosters critical understanding of heritage’s role in shaping place, memory, and social cohesion - key components of sustainable cities and communities.
Wicked Problems / Sustainable Solutions
Launched in the 2023-24 academic year and growing in popularity, this interdisciplinary module is open to all undergraduate students. It explores complex global challenges - such as climate change, food security, and ethical resource use - through the lens of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Students engage with academic staff from all five University faculties and use practical outdoor learning, digital tools, and collaborative debate to understand and respond to sustainability issues.
By examining political processes, communication, education, and low-carbon transitions, the module equips students from any discipline with the skills to drive meaningful change. The module supports Sustainable Cities and Communities by preparing students to build inclusive, resilient, and sustainable societies through informed, interdisciplinary action.
University operations
Artists in Residence
The University of Stirling’s Artist in Residence programme, featuring Audrey Grant in 2023–24, contributed meaningfully to SDG 11 by fostering cultural engagement with the campus landscape and heritage. Through her exhibition Memoria, Grant explored the layered history of the Airthrey Estate using found materials, analogue photography, sculpture, and sound. Her work engaged with themes of place, memory, and transformation, encouraging reflection on the role of cultural heritage in shaping sustainable and inclusive communities. The residency exemplifies how creative practice can support urban identity, community cohesion, and the preservation of historical environments.
Green Week
Green Week at the University of Stirling was part of the institution’s annual sustainability event schedule, offering a vibrant programme focused on active travel, biodiversity, waste reduction, and sustainable living. The University Library also signed the Green Libraries Manifesto in 2024, reinforcing its commitment to environmental leadership and community inspiration. Delivered through interactive activities, book displays, curated reading lists, and community engagement, the event highlighted the role of libraries and education in climate action. By encouraging active participation and promoting low-carbon lifestyles, the event contributes to building resilient, environmentally conscious communities on campus and beyond.
Active Travel Week
Active travel such as walking, cycling and using public transport directly fits within the goals of SDG 11 in several ways by improving public health, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting better transport links for communities. Each year the University of Stirling hosts an active travel week. Stirling’s active travel week in 2024 featured various activities and was launched through the Active Travel Fayre, offering information on the benefits of active travel and a chance to engage with local organisations. Subsequent events included free bike checks and repairs through Dr Bike, and led rides like Bike and Blether into Bridge of Allan. Other events included a sunrise stroll to the Wallace Monument and a Nextbike try out.
Civic engagement
Net Zero business support
Delivered in 2024 by the University of Stirling’s Scotland International Environment Centre (SIEC), the Net Zero Business Support Summit brought together local businesses, support agencies, and renewable energy providers to focus on emissions reduction. The event offered practical insights into funding opportunities, low-carbon products, and support services to help businesses progress on their net zero journeys.
As part of the wider programme, the Net Zero Beacon initiative equips university students with skills in carbon accounting, climate adaptation, and sustainability management. These students support local businesses across Stirling and Clackmannanshire, creating a mutually beneficial model of student upskilling and community-led climate action. Since its launch, the initiative has supported over 120 organisations.
Teens, tech and trails
In 2024, a new 27-month project was launched to promote the benefits of walking among young people in Scotland. Co-created by youth participants and researchers from the Universities of Stirling, Edinburgh, and the Highlands and Islands - alongside the charity Paths for All - the initiative aims to extend the reach of Walking Scotland’s programmes through a digital walking challenge. Supported by the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) and Active Scotland, the programme focuses on improving physical health, mental wellbeing, and social connection. This project supports SDG 11 by encouraging active travel, reducing reliance on carbon-intensive transport, and fostering inclusive, healthier urban environments. By empowering young people to lead and participate in sustainable mobility initiatives, it contributes to building resilient and engaged communities.
Scottish Housing Day
In September 2024, the University of Stirling hosted Scottish Housing Day at its Dementia Services Development Centre, spotlighting the concept of homes for life - housing designed to support people through all stages of life. The event, chaired by Professor Vikki McCall and attended by Minister for Housing Paul McLennan MSP, brought together experts, policymakers, and community voices to discuss inclusive housing design and healthy ageing. By promoting adaptable, accessible housing and inclusive communities.