Richmond Hill Recognized as Canada’s First Frontrunner city on Urban SDGs in Presentation to Honorable Minister Steven Guilbeault

Richmond Hill Recognized as Canada’s First Frontrunner city on Urban SDGs in Presentation to Honorable Minister Steven Guilbeault. 

Richmond Hill, Canada – The Honorable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, attended a significant presentation at the United Nations University Institute for Environment, Water and Health (UNU-INWEH), where Richmond Hill was recognized as Canada’s Frontrunner city on urban SDGs.  

The event brought together key leaders, including Reza Pourvaziry, Chair of the Urban Economy Forum (UEF), Richmond Hill Mayor David West, and Members of Parliament Majid Jowhari and Leah Taylor Roy. The discussion underscored Richmond Hill’s pioneering role in advancing sustainability in Canada and globally as part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

Hosted by Professor Kaveh Madani, Director of UNU-INWEH, the session was attended by of Richmond Hill Council members and university representatives. During the discussions, Reza Pourvaziry outlined Richmond Hill’s vast potential for urban transformation, highlighting its capacity to lead a structured and impactful dialogue on sustainable urban development. 

A Call for Canada’s Leadership in Urban Transformation 

Emphasizing the importance of national support, Reza Pourvaziry stated: 
 
"This is an opportunity for Canada to lead urban transformation with a focus on both the built and natural environment. Richmond Hill’s profile will be developed through Montrok | Urban SDGs Global Platform, a tool essential for advancing urban sustainability and innovation. However, realizing this vision requires strong support from the Government of Canada." 

 
Dr. Eduardo López Moreno, Co-Director of the World Urban Pavilion, further stressed the alignment between Richmond Hill with the UN Quality of Life Initiative, stating: 

"Richmond Hill has the potential to fully integrate sustainability into its urban framework, ensuring alignment with UN Quality of Life Initiative with a strong emphasis on environmental components. This initiative reinforces the city’s role as a frontrunner in the sustainable urban development movement." 

The Canada Frontrunner Compendium & Future Commitments 

A key highlight of the event was the presentation of the Canada Frontrunner Compendium, prepared by the World Urban Pavilion, to Minister Guilbeault. The compendium showcases Canada’s leadership in urban sustainability and the innovative potential of its cities. Minister Guilbeault expressed strong support for the initiative, committing to furthering sustainable urban development across the country. As a next step, the second edition of the Canada Frontrunner 2025 will focus on the urban environment, with a Call for Projects to be announced soon. 

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has pledged its support for this initiative, reinforcing its commitment to advancing sustainable urban development nationwide. 

This collaboration marks a pivotal step toward fostering urban resilience and innovation in Canada. Richmond Hill’s recognition as the nation’s first Frontrunner City on Urban SDGs sets a precedent for cities across the country to integrate sustainability into their urban planning and policies, further aligning with Canada’s climate and environmental commitments. 

During the meeting, Professor Kaveh Madani and Reza Pourvaziry introduced “World Station”, a joint initiative of the United Nations University and the Urban Economy Forum. This world-class global observatory, powered by advanced technology and artificial intelligence, aims to provide cutting-edge insights and solutions for urban sustainability worldwide. 

Minister Guilbeault’s Environmental Leadership Recognized The event concluded with a strong acknowledgment of Minister Guilbeault’s leadership in championing environmental sustainability across Canada. Richmond Hill’s recognition as the country’s first Frontrunner City on Urban SDGs sets an inspiring precedent for cities nationwide, advancing Canada’s climate and sustainability commitments.