Universities are vital to building capacities of the work force, and advancing innovations in science, technology, and the professions needed to address these challenges. Georgia Tech has been committed to this mission for decades. Our strategic plan calls for us to “lead and contribute to global collaborative efforts that advance the U.N. SDGs through our education, research, and service.”

1. Research to integrate science, engineering, social science, policy, design and business to improve environmental, social, and economic outcomes;
2. Serve-Learn-Sustain program;
3. Sustainable Cities Minor;
4. Sustainable Communities Summer Internship Program;
5. Greater Atlanta Regional Centre of Expertise in Education for Sustainable Development;
6. Minor in Global Development;
7. Minor in Social Justice;
8. Graduate Certificate in Global Development;
9. Master's degree in Global Development;
10. Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design;
11. University Global Coalition.

Among many partner organizations: City of Atlanta Mayors Office of Sustainability, Partnership for Southern Equity, Drawdown Georgia, Georgia Climate Project, Coca-Cola Corporation, Delta Air Lines, U.S. Green Building Council, West Atlanta Watershed Alliance, Emory University, Georgia State University, Spelman College, Morehouse College, Agnes Scott College, Kennesaw State University, University of Georgia, Roy A. Anderson Foundation, United Nations Association - USA, Association of Collegiate Schools of Planning, Global Planning Education Association Network, University Global Coalition, Planners 4 Climate Action. UN-Habitat University Network Initiative.

Progress in implementation of the New Urban Agenda has been significant, with key results affecting inclusion, integration of policies vertically and horizontally, poverty reduction, environmental protection and climate readiness, and economic development. Still, the pressures of rapid urbanization, climate change, migration and growth in inequality translate to growing inequality, and reduced quality of life for large numbers of people in many regions of the world. Professional capacity shortages continue to impede progress.