Universitas Bung Hatta supports Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities through multidisciplinary research, innovation, and community collaboration. The university advances sustainable urban planning, disaster resilience, cultural preservation, and pollution reduction. Through GIS-based environmental studies, heritage tourism initiatives, and infrastructure development projects, Universitas Bung Hatta promotes cities that are safe, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. Its integration of local wisdom, technological innovation, and public engagement demonstrates Universitas Bung Hatta’s strong commitment to fostering environmentally responsible and community-centered urban development.
1. Urban Resilience and Disaster Risk Reduction
Universitas Bung Hatta plays a significant role in research and community engagement related to disaster resilience and urban safety. Studies focus on tsunami evacuation planning, flood control, and earthquake-resistant building design, especially in Padang and other disaster-prone regions of West Sumatra. Universitas Bung Hatta’s research provides models for urban infrastructure that enhance community preparedness and resilience. Collaborative projects with local governments ensure that disaster management strategies are practical and context-specific. These initiatives contribute directly to building safer, more resilient urban environments capable of withstanding natural hazards.
2. Sustainable Land Use and Environmental Planning
Universitas Bung Hatta researchers conduct spatial and environmental analyses using GIS and remote sensing to support sustainable land-use management. The studies address issues such as flood susceptibility, slope stability, and land conversion dynamics in rural–urban areas. Findings from these analyses guide policymakers in designing environmentally sound urban development strategies. By integrating indigenous knowledge with modern planning tools, Universitas Bung Hatta promotes context-sensitive and ecologically balanced spatial planning. These efforts are essential for reducing environmental degradation and promoting sustainable urban ecosystems.
3. Cultural Heritage and Community-Based Tourism
Through interdisciplinary studies, Universitas Bung Hatta supports the conservation and utilization of cultural heritage as a foundation for sustainable tourism and local identity. Research and community projects explore the preservation of heritage sites such as the Ombilin Coal Mining Heritage of Sawahlunto and promote virtual heritage tourism through digital innovation. The university’s engagement empowers local communities to manage heritage assets responsibly while generating economic opportunities. These programs demonstrate how cultural preservation can harmonize with modern development and sustainable livelihoods.
4. Urban Waste Management and Pollution Mitigation
Universitas Bung Hatta conducts studies on pollution reduction and waste management in urban coastal environments, particularly addressing microplastic contamination and plastic waste recycling. Research into pyrolysis technology and nanomaterial-based solutions offers innovative approaches for converting waste into energy or reusable materials. The outcomes support circular economy practices that reduce environmental impact and enhance public health. By applying scientific innovation to real-world urban challenges, Universitas Bung Hatta contributes to cleaner, more sustainable cities in alignment with SDG 11 targets.
5. Inclusive Urban Development and Infrastructure Improvement
The university engages in infrastructure research focusing on transportation systems, public facility planning, and equitable urban access. Projects involving rail transport development, bridge assessment for tsunami evacuation routes, and urban hydrology contribute to safer and more inclusive city planning. Universitas Bung Hatta emphasizes participatory planning that involves local communities in decision-making processes. This inclusive approach ensures that infrastructure development supports not only economic growth but also social equity and environmental sustainability.
Publishes progress against SDG11: (Document Link)