Urban Metabolism and Minority Pulse: An Education and Awareness Campaign Targeting Minority Groups

Abstract

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development have set 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to tackle development challenges by ensuring well-being, economic prosperity, and environmental protection. The attainment of the SDGs will greatly depend on whether the identified synergies among the SDGs can be leveraged to all members of society. In contrast to conventional development agendas, this study uses the SDGs as a common language to educate vulnerable members of society through tailored method solutions, educational criteria, and interdisciplinary approaches. The study provides a replicable policy toolkit to target underrepresented populations. The case study covered the cities of Mantova and Milan, Italy. Seven identified target groups: children, elderly, people with disabilities, students and academics, women, LGBTI+, and homeless and refugees. This study designs methodology toolkits to develop awareness of urban metabolism, climate change, and resource consumption behaviors with reference to SDG 4, SDG 12, and SDG 13. Phase I consists of a campus-wide awareness initiative to create interdepartmental networks of students, researchers, and professionals studying sustainability issues. Phase II implements community-based workshops, training courses, and educational programs targeting minority. Phase III includes guidelines to inform institutions on the importance of developing synergies between citizens, public and private entities, and minorities in strategy design.