Local Patterns for Implementing the New Urban Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals

Both the New Urban Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals face considerable barriers to implementation, particularly at the local level -- what is sometimes called the "last mile problem". The pattern language methodology, developed originally for the built environment but later applied very effectively to software, engineering and other fields, is a proven tool for local, participatory and adaptive action. This networking event will gather collaborators from partner organizations, working toward a scalable pilot project in pattern-based implementation to be held in a city of the Global South (to be finalized shortly). Special attention will be paid to public space creation, maintenance and improvement, as a critical dimension of both the New Urban Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (e.g. SDG 11.7). The session will be conducted by recognized international experts in the pattern language methodology, and co-authors of the book, "A New Pattern Language for Growing Regions," also co-authored by members of UN-Habitat. (The moderator, Michael Mehaffy, was a consultant to UN-Habitat in developing language on public space for the New Urban Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals, as well as a long-time collaborator with UN-Habitat and other partners.) The session will invite collaborations with other partners, and share and exchange the latest research and practice around this very promising path to implementation.