Improving urban data systems

Developing urban data management systems

Description

Improving urban data systems involves establishing integrated, reliable, and accessible data infrastructures to support effective urban planning and management. This strategy addresses fragmented, outdated, or incomplete data by standardizing collection methods, enhancing interoperability, and promoting real-time data sharing among stakeholders. The practical intent is to enable evidence-based decision-making, optimize resource allocation, and monitor urban challenges such as congestion, pollution, and service delivery, thereby fostering more responsive and sustainable urban environments.

Implementation

This strategy features in the framework of Agenda 21 as formulated at UNCED (Rio de Janeiro, 1992), now coordinated by the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development and implemented through national and local authorities.

Agenda 21 recommends that during the period 1993-2000, all countries should undertake projects in selected cities for the collection, analysis and subsequent dissemination of urban data, including environmental impact analysis, at the local, state/provincial, national and international levels, with the active participation of the business sector as appropriate, and the establishment of city data management capabilities. UN organizations such as Habitat, UNEP and UNDP could provide technical advice and model data management systems.