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DUBAI, 13th February, 2023 (WAM) – Prince Rahim Aga Khan, Chair of the Aga Khan Development Network’s Environment and Climate Committee, delivered, today, an address touching upon urbanisation set against the backdrop of global warming, at the World Government Summit 2023 taking place in Dubai.

Speaking to an audience of distinguished guests representing government, business, academia and civil society, Prince Rahim highlighted the need for urgent action to advance progress and tackle climate change, specifically through the sustainable design of cities.

“The Qur’an teaches us that as God’s noblest creation, humankind is entrusted with the stewardship of all that is on Earth, and that each generation must leave for its successors a wholesome and healthy social and physical environment,” explained Prince Rahim.

“Stewardship of the environment, care for the natural world, sharing of resources, recognition of beauty as a divine blessing, and an environmental ethic are the principles that helped guide the planning of early Muslim cities.”

These principles have similarly inspired AKDN’s contemporary efforts, and continue to do so. A case in point is Al-Azhar Park in Cairo. Since it opened in 2005, the park project has offered a large green space in a densely populated city, has absorbed hundreds of tonnes of carbon dioxide every year, and has significantly contributed to an improvement in the quality of life of the local population.

Al-Azhar Park offers a creative model for urban planners to design environments where local communities are set up to thrive in harmony with the natural world. Other such models and ideas are urgently required to address the challenges of urbanisation.

“The World Government Summit is a fantastic opportunity to raise our common ambitions,” concluded Prince Rahim, “to share big ideas, and to inspire positive action in global city design to build a better, more harmonious, and more environmentally sustainable future for humanity and for our planet.”