Local Voices, Global Goals: Participatory Planning for Localizing the UN SDGs in UNESCO Heritage Site Management

A groundbreaking approach to integrating the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into UNESCO World Heritage Site management has emerged from research on Toruń, Poland. The study reveals that participatory planning, led by local actors like the Revitalization Committee, can effectively embed SDGs into urban development without requiring new governance structures. This polycentric framework leverages existing bodies to enhance social engagement and optimize resources, demonstrating a scalable model for balancing global sustainability targets with local heritage preservation. The research combines qualitative document analysis, expert interviews, and participant observations to highlight the committee's pivotal role in shaping Toruń’s Management Plan, bridging gaps between revitalization efforts and SDG integration.

Eremenko, I., & Kraski, T. (2025). Local Voices, Global Goals: Participatory Planning for Localizing the UN SDGs in UNESCO Heritage Site Management. Urban Planning, 10. https://doi.org/10.17645/up.9039