K-CAP, or the Knowledge Management Center for Asia and the Pacific, is an initiative established by UN-HABITAT Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (Fukuoka). It aims to function as a platform to link urban and environmental issues and needs in Asia with the technologies, know-how, experience and information available in Japan.
Through over 30 years of experience working in the region, UN-HABITAT Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (UN-HABITAT ROAP) has a strong and widespread network with various partners; governments at both national and local levels, academic and research institutions, private business, NGOs and the media, through diverse range of project activities from policy advice, poverty alleviation, to large scale post-conflict and post-disaster rehabilitation projects. One of its main focus has been on establishing environmentally sustainable cities, and through its programmes such as the Urban Management Programme, Sustainable Cities Programme and most recently the Cities and Climate Change Initiative, UN-HABITAT has worked closely with over 100 cities in Asia.
While the region has achieved rapid economic and social development, these changes have come at a cost, especially with burden to the environment. The region also continues to experience rapid population growth; and in the next 25 years, it is estimated that the total regional population will grow by over 1 billion, most of which is predicted to center on cities. It has become critical for many cities to find solutions to address increasing urban challenges at the same time achieving environmental sustainability.
Located in Fukuoka City, the gateway city in Japan towards Asia, UN-HABITAT ROAP is also networked with a wealth of resources and information on environmental technology and know-how in Japan, many which have been developed through creative innovations and through the experiences of industrial cities recovering from severe pollution and environmental degradation. The K-CAP initiative will offer opportunities for cities and partners both in Asia and Japan to discuss their needs and issues, exchange information and resources, and identify solutions through expert group meetings, follow up pilot projects and workshops/training sessions, which will enhance technical cooperation for environmental sustainability of cities in the region.