Urbanization and human settlement data on the UN-HABITAT Open Data Portal

The UN-HABITAT OPEN DATA portal, https://data.unhabitat.org/, is an interesting and useful way to obtain data on urbanization and human settlement.  UN-Habitat, the United Nations Human Settlements Programme, is mandated by the UN General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities. It is the focal point for all urbanization and human settlement matters within the UN System. The creation of sustainable human settlements requires the provision and application of accurate, up to date, timely and reliable data.

The portal’s Compilation of Urban Indicators Data allows the user to explore by SDG Goals, by specific themes such as land and environment, quality of life, governance, and others.  You can also explore all data in the library.

Because the site uses ArcGIS Hub technology, the site is responsive, and you can easily search for data of interest. You can also search for type of document, such as web mapping application or dashboard. I used the site to search for land cover data and was pleased at the variety (scales, locations) and volume of results. At the time of this writing, 132 countries, 77 indicators, and 1500 urban areas are covered in the portal. The chief challenge with this and similar sites is to effectively narrow what you are seeking.

The UN HABITAT open data portal.

–Joseph Kerski