San Luis Potosí is committed to sustainability and social equity, aligning its policies with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ICLEI’s five development pathways. The city actively promotes climate action, sustainable mobility, circular economy, and social inclusion through innovative programs and initiatives. In 2024, it was honored with the Gilberto Rincón Gallardo Inclusion Medal for its efforts in fostering an inclusive society. Furthermore, San Luis Potosí has implemented progressive policies to promote gender equity, encourage inclusive public participation, and create a safer urban environment for all.
As a UNESCO Learning City, San Luis Potosí has prioritized lifelong learning as a foundation for sustainable development and social inclusion. The city actively participates in both the Mexican National Network of Learning Cities and the Latin American Network of UNESCO Learning Cities, exchanging best practices and collaborating on educational policies that foster equitable access to learning opportunities.
San Luis Potosí has institutionalized lifelong learning through its Municipal Development Plan, ensuring that all government programs integrate a learning pathway that enables individuals to recognize and maximize the potential of their knowledge. The Learning City Council, composed of representatives from academia, industry, civil society organizations, and local government, plays a key role in guiding initiatives that promote education at all stages of life.
Among its key initiatives, the Futuros Emprendedores (Future Entrepreneurs) program focuses on developing productive life skills from childhood, fostering community-based economic development mechanisms that empower individuals and families. This program has been internationally recognized, winning the UNDP award Transformando México desde lo Local in December 2022, highlighting its impact in creating inclusive economic opportunities.
Additionally, programs such as Talentos de Mi Comunidad (Talents of My Community), Tocando Corazones con Armonía (Touching Hearts with Harmony), and Voluntariado de Corazón (Volunteering from the Heart) create inclusive learning environments that strengthen social participation and economic resilience. A key initiative, Domingo de Pilas (My Government Sunday), fosters civic responsibility and co-governance by revitalizing public spaces. This collaboration between the municipal administration and local residents has successfully transformed 169 public spaces, holding activities in a different neighborhood each Sunday to directly address community needs and enhance public services.
Through these efforts, San Luis Potosí continues to evolve as a city where learning is accessible, transformative, and a driver for equitable and sustainable growth.
Equity challenges
San Luis Potosí has made significant progress in fostering an inclusive and sustainable urban environment, yet equity challenges persist, impacting the quality of life and long-term development of the city. Some of the key challenges include:
- Urban resilience and water scarcity
The city faces intensifying drought conditions, threatening water availability and degrading urban vegetation. Urgent action is needed to enhance water conservation efforts, restore green infrastructure, and implement climate adaptation strategies to safeguard natural resources and urban sustainability.
- Accessibility of public services and infrastructures
Ensuring universal accessibility remains a priority. Many peripheral neighborhoods and rural communities still lack essential services such as potable water, drainage, public lighting, and paved roads, limiting their access to economic, educational, and health opportunities. Additionally, public transportation remains inefficient and lacks adequate infrastructure for people with disabilities, older adults, and other vulnerable groups. Expanding safe pedestrian and cycling infrastructure is also essential to fostering sustainable mobility.
- Education and lifelong learning inequality
As a UNESCO Learning City, San Luis Potosí is committed to promoting lifelong learning; however, not all communities have equal access to educational programs, libraries, and cultural spaces. Bridging the digital divide and expanding educational opportunities, particularly for women, older adults, and people with disabilities, is crucial to fostering a more inclusive society.
- Gender equity and women’s safety
Persistent gender inequalities in economic opportunities, political participation, and education access continue to affect women in the city. Additionally, gender-based violence remains a concern, particularly in public spaces and transportation, limiting mobility and personal safety. Strengthening gender equity policies and expanding access to support programs and entrepreneurship opportunities for women are critical to addressing this issue.
- Housing and sustainable urban development
Rapid urban expansion has created high-vulnerability areas lacking proper infrastructure and services. Rising housing costs also make it difficult for young people and families with low-incomes to access affordable, well-located housing options. Sustainable housing projects that integrate green infrastructure and inclusive urban planning are necessary to ensure equitable access to housing.
- Gaps in healthcare and well-being
Limited access to health services, mental health care, and specialized medical attention disproportionately affects marginalized communities. Strengthening public health programs, particularly for older adults, children, and people experiencing homelessness, is essential to improving overall well-being in the city.
- Social exclusion of disadvantaged groups
People with disabilities, indigenous communities, and individuals experiencing homelessness continue to face barriers in employment, education, and access to public services. The city must promote inclusive policies and programs that empower disadvantaged groups, ensuring they have access to economic opportunities and social integration programs.
Going forward, San Luis Potosí is dedicated to embedding equity across its sustainability efforts, prioritizing community engagement, innovative policies, and sustainable urban planning to create a resilient, greener, and more inclusive city.
