By Damilare Clement, Member of UNA-Central.

Introduction: A Plan for Our Future

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are 17 global goals designed to create a fairer, safer, healthier and more sustainable world by 2030. These goals cover important issues such as poverty, education, health, climate change, clean energy, equality and strong communities. Although the goals were agreed by governments across the world, real progress depends on action within local communities. Cities such as Stoke-on-Trent have an important role to play in turning global ambitions into practical local action. For Stoke-on-Trent, the SDGs offer an opportunity to improve community wellbeing, support economic growth, encourage environmental responsibility and give young people a stronger voice in shaping the future of the city.

About Stoke-on-Trent

Stoke-on-Trent is home to more than 250,000 people and is internationally recognised for its pottery and manufacturing heritage. The city continues to evolve through regeneration, investment and growing interest in sustainability and green development. The city is supported by two major universities: Staffordshire University and Keele University. Together, these institutions bring thousands of students, researchers and volunteers into the local area and provide significant opportunities for education, community engagement and sustainability work. Stoke-on-Trent is also surrounded by green spaces and sits within an important environmental area linked to the Staffordshire Green Belt. These local strengths place the city in a good position to support several Sustainable Development Goals, particularly:

SDG 4	Quality Education
SDG 11	Sustainable Cities and Communities
SDG 13	Climate Action
SDG 17	Partnerships for the Goals

 

Work That Is Already Happening

A great deal of positive work is already taking place across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire. The Staffordshire Sustainability Board is bringing together councils and organisations across the county to support carbon reduction and long-term environmental planning. Local authorities are also working on projects linked to cleaner transport, energy efficiency and environmental improvement. Keele University has gained recognition for its sustainability research and climate initiatives, while Staffordshire University continues to support local community projects, student volunteering and social development programmes. Across the city, students, volunteers and community groups are already involved in activities such as recycling projects, food growing initiatives, environmental clean-up campaigns and public awareness events.

The Challenges We Face

Despite this progress, Stoke-on-Trent still faces a number of important challenges. Some families continue to experience financial hardship and inequality. There are ongoing concerns relating to public health, skills development, transport access and long-term economic opportunity. Like many areas across the country, Stoke-on-Trent must also respond to climate change and the need for more sustainable ways of living. Recognising these challenges is important because it helps identify where the Sustainable Development Goals can make the greatest difference at local level.

Working Together

The Sustainable Development Goals cannot be achieved by one organisation acting alone. Success depends on partnership and community involvement. There are many opportunities for collaboration within Stoke-on-Trent: • Schools and universities can help educate young people about sustainability and global citizenship.

• Businesses can support greener practices and stronger community investment.
• Community groups and volunteers can lead local projects and neighbourhood initiatives.
• Young people can play an active role in shaping future priorities for the city.
• Local organisations can work together to share ideas, resources and practical support.

The Role of UNA-UK in Our City

The United Nations Association – UK (UNA-UK) is a national charity and network which supports the values and principles of the United Nations. While UNA-UK is not part of the United Nations itself, it works to promote international cooperation, human rights, peace and sustainable development within communities across the UK. Through UNA Central and future local engagement in Stoke-on-Trent, there is an opportunity to encourage greater public awareness of the Sustainable Development Goals and support practical local action. A future UNA group in Stoke-on-Trent could help by: • Organising community discussions and public awareness events.

• Supporting schools and universities with educational activities.
• Encouraging partnerships between businesses, community groups and local institutions.
• Promoting youth leadership and volunteering opportunities.
• Connecting local action with wider national and international goals.

What We Can Do Next

There are several practical steps that could help strengthen Sustainable Development Goal activity across Stoke-on-Trent and surrounding areas: • Community workshops linked to sustainability and local development.

• School and university presentations introducing the SDGs.
• Volunteer recruitment through local institutions and community networks.
• Public events bringing together organisations interested in sustainability and social impact.
• Greater collaboration between students, businesses and community leaders.

Come and Join Us

Making Stoke-on-Trent a greener, fairer and more sustainable city depends on local action and strong partnerships. The Sustainable Development Goals provide a useful framework for bringing people together around shared priorities and practical solutions. Students, teachers, businesses, community organisations and local residents all have an important role to play. Global goals become meaningful when communities take local action. Stoke-on-Trent has the potential to become a strong example of how local partnerships, civic leadership and community involvement can contribute to a better future for everyone.

Please email me at damilare@unacentral.uk and tell me a little about yourself. Thank you very much.