UN-Habitat Nepal 4d ago

What happens when a city decides to replace an expressway by restoring its river? In this presentation, Zion Choi, Land Associate (International UNV) at UN-Habitat Nepal explores Seoul’s bold Cheonggyecheon Stream restoration—a project that transformed urban life, improved air quality, boosted local economy and revived ecosystems. #Cheonggyecheon Stream restoration is a landmark example of sustainable urban transformation. Once buried under an expressway after the Korean War, the stream caused severe air pollution, heat island effects, and loss of cultural heritage. In 2002, the Seoul Metropolitan Government made a bold decision to demolish the expressway and restore the stream, investing USD 386 million to revive natural water circulation, improve ecosystems, and create a vibrant public space. Completed in 2005, the project reduced urban temperatures by nearly 4°C in that area, improved air and water quality, boosted biodiversity, and revitalized the economy—attracting over 64,000 visitors daily. This case demonstrates how integrated climate action and participatory planning can turn concrete into nature, offering valuable lessons for Nepal’s cities. 🙏Welcome to UN-Habitat Nepal 🙏 The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is mandated by the UN General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities. UN-Habitat is the focal point for all urbanization and human settlement matters within the UN system. Since 2007 UN-Habitat Nepal works with partners to build inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities and communities in Nepal. UN-Habitat promotes urbanization as a positive transformative force for people and communities, reducing inequality, discrimination and poverty. 🎥 Subscribe for expert insights, inspiring stories, and sustainable solutions Digital Presence of UN-Habitat Nepal 🌐 Website: https://unhabitat.org.np/ ⓕ https://www.facebook.com/unhabitatnepal 🇮🇳 https://www.linkedin.com/company/un-habitat-nepal/ 𝕏 https://x.com/unhabitatnepal 📩 unhabitat.nepal@unhabitat.org.np #UNHabitatNepal #SustainableCities #UrbanDevelopment #InclusiveCities #SmartUrbanPlanning #UrbanResilience