3.7.3. UNEA Resolution on Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure

The UN Environment Assembly (UNEA) Members States in March 2023 adopted a resolution on ‘Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure’ encouraging them to; provide opportunities for engaging relevant stakeholders, promote investment in sustainable and resilient infrastructure, natural infrastructure and nature-based solutions, cooperate internationally to strengthen frameworks, including for financing, and implement the ‘International Good Practice Principles for Sustainable Infrastructure’.

In March 2023, members of the UN Environment Assembly came together to agree on a resolution. This resolution focuses on building infrastructure that is sustainable and resilient, which means the infrastructure should not only meet today's needs but also be able to withstand future challenges like climate change. The resolution encourages member states to involve stakeholders, which are individuals or groups affected by or interested in the infrastructure. They should also invest in projects that can sustain themselves and use natural solutions wherever possible. Additionally, it calls for international cooperation to strengthen financial frameworks and adhere to established best practices for sustainable infrastructure.

Imagine a community deciding to build a park. Instead of just adding playground equipment, the planners engage local residents to see what they want, include native plants to support local wildlife, and ensure the materials used are sustainable. This not only serves the community's current gas but ensures the park can endure heavy rains or droughts while still being useful and enjoyable for everyone.

The ‘International Good Practice Principles for Sustainable Infrastructure’ has the following guiding principles; 1. Strategic Planning 2. Responsive, Resilient, And Flexible Service Provision 3. Comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment of Sustainability 4. Avoiding Environmental Impacts and Investing In Nature 5. Resource Efficiency and Circularity 6. Equity, Inclusiveness, And Empowerment 7. Enhancing Economic Benefits 8. Fiscal Sustainability and Innovative Financing 9. Transparent, Inclusive, And Participatory Decision-Making 10. Evidence-Based Decision-Making.

The International Good Practice Principles provide a roadmap for creating sustainable infrastructure. These principles emphasize thorough strategic planning, ensuring that services are flexible and can adapt to unforeseen challenges. For example, the inclusion of comprehensive life cycle assessments means that every stage of an infrastructure project—from planning to decommissioning—is evaluated for sustainability. This involves considering the environmental impacts and actively seeking to mitigate them, promoting resource efficiency, and ensuring that all stakeholders are included in the decision-making process. Economic benefits must also be enhanced, making sure that the projects are financially viable in the long run.

Think of building a bridge. Before construction, planners should analyze how the bridge will impact the local environment and economy at every stage. They might decide to use recyclable materials and ensure public feedback is integrated into the design to meet community needs. This not only makes the bridge serve its purpose better but also protects the environment and involves citizens in the development process.

There are several innovations and methodologies that can be employed to ensure the sustainability of infrastructure development, such as: 1. Green infrastructure 2. Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) 3. Circular Economy 4. Tool and methods for reducing Environmental Impact.

To develop infrastructure sustainably, various innovative approaches and methodologies can be applied. Green infrastructure uses ecological systems to enhance urban areas, such as planting vegetation to manage stormwater. Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) ensures that water resources are effectively managed in a coordinated manner to maximize economic and social welfare while safeguarding the ecosystem. The circular economy promotes minimizing waste and reusing materials rather than a linear model of take-make-dispose. Tools such as Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) help evaluate potential environmental consequences before projects are carried out.

Picture a town that is planning to build a new school. Instead of building on a bare piece of land, they choose to incorporate green roofs, which not only insulate the building but also absorb rainwater. They plan for a water recycling system to manage usage and create a structure that can be easily expanded in the future. This thoughtful design utilizes sustainable practices and resources, demonstrating how even educational facilities can contribute positively to the environment.

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