Sustainable Cities and Communities focuses on making urban areas inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. With half of the world’s population living in cities—projected to increase to 70% by 2050—the rapid urbanization, particularly in developing countries, has led to the rise of mega-cities. In 1990, there were only ten cities with over 10 million people, but by 2014, this number grew to 28, home to 453 million people.

Adopted by the United Nations in 2015, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emphasize global collaboration across developed and developing nations to address urgent issues such as poverty, health, education, inequality, economic growth, and climate change. While higher education isn't the primary focus of these goals, universities play a crucial role in achieving them. The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, introduced to assess the role of universities in advancing the SDGs, highlight universities' contributions to sustainability, including SDG 11 on sustainable cities and communities.

OSTIM Technical University of Turkey participated in the 2023 rankings, evaluating its efforts in 17 SDGs. Under SDG 11, the university addressed aspects like supporting arts, heritage, and sustainable practices. OSTIM organizes cultural trips to raise awareness about natural and cultural heritage, while also offering access to public spaces, libraries, and green areas. The university hosts public performances, art exhibitions, and projects that preserve intangible cultural heritage, including folklore, traditions, and languages.

The university also invests in green infrastructure, such as parks and urban forests, to improve air quality and enhance resilience. It promotes energy-efficient building standards, waste management, recycling, and urban agriculture to support sustainable urban environments. OSTIM's initiatives include better water sanitation, pollution control, and the preservation of cultural heritage sites like Arslanhane Camii Çilehane, all aimed at fostering equitable, sustainable urban development.