Pursuing the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals with SITES certification

March 7, 2025
According to the U.N. Environment Programme (UNEP), nature-based solutions can influence 79% of all targets across the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which were created as a global effort to address the social, economic and environmental issues facing society today. SITES certification complements these efforts by promoting sustainable land design and development, recognizing the interconnectedness of human health, environmental health, and economic resilience.

The 17 SDGs, supported by 169 specific targets, serve as a global call to action for creating a just and flourishing world. SITES certification aligns closely with several SDGs, as highlighted in the resource Advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through SITES. This publication demonstrates how SITES can help land development projects achieve SDG targets using its framework and strategies.

Key synergies include:
  • 67% of SITES credits address Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, promoting safe, inclusive, and resilient urban spaces.
  • 46% of SITES credits support Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, fostering environments that enhance public health.
  • 45% of SITES credits align with Goal 15: Life on Land, focusing on protecting ecosystems and biodiversity.
  • 37% of SITES credits contribute to Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, advancing sustainable infrastructure and innovation.
  • 36% of SITES credits address Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, supporting sustainable water management.
By leveraging SITES, stakeholders can integrate nature-based solutions into their projects, directly supporting global efforts toward sustainability, equity, and resilience. Learn more.