Goal 11: Sustainable cities & communities

We are playing our part in achieving this goal through targeted research, industry collaborations and university initiatives.

Direct actions by the university include renewable energy agreements, water recycling and energy-efficient buildings.

Collaboration with community and industry partners brings into our research into sharper focus, with projects addressing sustainable packaging, water infrastructure and use of waste products in building materials.

Since 2015, the number of countries with national disaster risk reduction strategies has more than doubled. To achieve SDG 11, efforts must focus on strengthening capacities for planning for urban development, improving access to public transportation and enhancing waste management. 
– United Nations

Research & learning addressing Goal 11

Institute for Sustainable Industries & Liveable Cities (ISILC)
The Institute for Sustainable Industries and Liveable Cities (ISILC) aims to create resilient built environments, globally competitive industries and socially inclusive communities.
Sustainable Futures Innovation Hub
This collaborative hub researches responsible consumption and production practices in key industry sectors, in line with the State Government’s Recycling Victoria strategy.
Stronger Communities Innovation Hub
The Stronger Communities Innovation Hub improves the health, wellbeing and resilience of communities in Melbourne’s west.
Geotechnical, rock mechanics & pavement research
Within ISILC, the geotechnical, rock mechanics and pavement (GR&P) research group focuses on fundamental and applied research that builds knowledge to make civil infrastructures safer, more economical
Structural mechanics & sustainable materials research
Within ISILC, the vision of this research group is to create sustainable, modern, major infrastructure, improving the lives of the community and future generations.
Smart energy research
Within ISILC, this research group assists modern power engineers to work with devices such as 'smart meters' and designs grids, and creates methods for reducing bushfire risks.
Preventing & countering violent extremism research
This research group develops and advances scientific knowledge about the human impact and causes of violent extremism.
Teenagers
Youth & community research
Youth and community studies is focused on: the social inclusion of young people; community development; and inclusive and transformational education and social justice.

VU stories

Stella Rose Lay in a VU lab coat in a lab
Connecting with Country through science
Science student
"My internship gave confidence and career prospects. It’s so rewarding to know that we’re making a difference to Country and community. I can’t wait to see what the future holds."
My internship gave confidence and career prospects. It’s so rewarding to know that we’re making a difference to Country and community. I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
Stella's story
Bianca Yankov
Finding connection in community services
Certificate IV in Community Services CHC42015, Certificate IV in Youth Work CHC40413
"VU has great facilities to help with your studies. All the services they offer are so important to help students outside of studying, such as tax return help, counselling services and free meals."
VU has great facilities to help with your studies. All the services they offer are so important to help students outside of studying, such as tax return help, counselling services and free meals.
Bianca's story
Jacinta Sapwell.
Jacinta's making a splash in sustainability
Bachelor of Science
"The Bachelor of Science at VU was super hands-on, which I loved. In my job now I get to help conserve this extraordinary place."
The Bachelor of Science at VU was super hands-on, which I loved. In my job now I get to help conserve this extraordinary place.
Read Jacinta's story