Sustainability
Sustainability Policy
Vision
WUF13 is envisioned as a global benchmark for the delivery of sustainable, inclusive, and climate-resilient international events. Through the Forum, Azerbaijan aims to demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental responsibility, social inclusion, and innovative sustainable practices, while advancing national ambitions for resilient, future-ready cities and communities.
Mission
WUF13 aims to be delivered as a sustainable international event with a minimal environmental footprint and meaningful social impact through the application of sustainable event management principles. The Forum seeks to promote operational efficiency, generate measurable sustainability outcomes, and leave a lasting positive legacy for Azerbaijan, UN-Habitat, and the wider global WUF community.
Strategic Pillars
The WUF13 Sustainability Policy is structured around four strategic pillars, aligned with the commitments outlined in the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and UN-Habitat. The policy is further shaped by relevant ISO requirements, UN-Habitat priorities, United Nations standards, and Azerbaijan’s national sustainability agenda. Together, these pillars establish a comprehensive, practical, and measurable framework to support the delivery of an sustainable and inclusive event.
Pillar 1: Sustainable Venue and Resource Management
WUF13 prioritises the reduction of its environmental footprint through efficient resource use, low-impact design, and the integration of circular economy principles across all venues and operations. The Forum incorporates energy efficiency, water stewardship, sustainable materials, and comprehensive waste management practices to support responsible planning, procurement, and post-event resource recovery.
Pillar 2: Carbon Management and Climate Action
Low-carbon strategies are systematically integrated across all stages of the Forum, alongside measures aimed at strengthening climate resilience in planning and operations. The approach includes emissions measurement, reduction, and mitigation initiatives, including sustainable transport, climate-responsive design, and carbon offsetting, ensuring alignment with international standards and Azerbaijan’s long-term climate objectives.
Pillar 3: Legacy and Local Impact
WUF13 focuses on creating lasting social, environmental, and economic value for Azerbaijan, ensuring that the Forum delivers tangible and measurable benefits beyond the event itself. This includes advancing local economic participation, strengthening inclusive community engagement, and applying robust impact monitoring frameworks to support long-term development, capacity-building, and sustainable urban outcomes.
Pillar 4: Inclusivity, Accessibility & Safety
WUF13 is committed to creating an accessible, inclusive, and secure event environment for all participants, in line with the principles of sustainable and resilient urbanisation. The Forum promotes equitable participation, universal accessibility standards, and comprehensive safety measures to ensure all attendees are able to engage fully, comfortably, and safely throughout the event.