We are pleased to announce the extension of the submission deadline for the 2nd cycle of the Global Award for Sustainable Development in Cities (Shanghai Award) to 12 July 2024. Shanghai Award recognizes the pivotal role of cities in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and advancing global sustainability. Eligible cities worldwide are invited to apply. 

As the world continues to grapple with unprecedented challenges hindering progress towards the realization of the SDGs, cities emerge as transformative agents for sustainable progress. The Shanghai Award, jointly established by UN-Habitat and Shanghai Municipality, aims to accelerate implementation of the 2030 Agenda and the New Urban Agenda by focusing on SDG11, promoting the localization of SDGs, and incentivizing cities to find systematic solutions for sustainable urban development.

The general theme of the 2024 award, “Building a Sustainable Urban Future for All,” echoes the theme of the twelfth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12), encouraging cities to showcase their progress in delivering quality housing, empowering youth, promoting innovative development, and fostering climate resilience.

Application rules and guidelines (available in the six official UN languages) along with the application form are available on the award website https://shanghaiaward.org/. Sign up now and complete the application template online before 12 July 2024. 

An international jury composed of geographically diverse members will select winning cities based on their impact as well as sustainability, innovation, and adaptability initiatives. Award recipients will be honoured at a major international platform (such as the observance of World Cities Day or the World Urban Forum), receiving a plaque and a trophy. Their outstanding practices and achievements will be documented in the best practices database of the New Urban Agenda platform and the Shanghai Manual annual report. Winning cities will also be invited to attend major international events such as the World Urban Forum and the observance of World Cities Day to exchange knowledge, attract investment, and stimulate local economic development.

For further information, please contact the award task force at siqi.chen@un.org and outreach@shanghaiaward.org.