Baku White City
at UN World Urban Forum (WUF13):
a landmark of sustainable urban transformation

From 17 to 22 May 2026, Baku hosted the 13th session of the UN World Urban Forum (WUF13), the world’s leading international platform dedicated to sustainable urban development, resilient cities, and the future of urban living.

As part of the forum, Ksenia Agapova, founder of ESG Factor, participated in discussions with local media and industry representatives, sharing insights on the future of sustainable construction and green building certification within the Baku White City development.

During the event, Ksenia highlighted the growing role of international environmental certification standards in shaping the future of urban development in Azerbaijan and the wider region. She also spoke about the successful implementation of BREEAM-certified projects within Baku White City and the strong pipeline of upcoming residential developments currently preparing for certification.

Below, we share more details about the forum, the key discussions surrounding Baku White City, and why the project is increasingly recognized as one of the region’s leading examples of sustainable urban transformation.

Also within the framework of the WUF13, cooperation officially commenced between the Baku White City project and the international engineering and design company AtkinsRéalis.

The agreement focuses on the development of road, transport, and engineering infrastructure in the Eastern District of Baku White City based on the principles of green and sustainable urban development.

The project includes the implementation of advanced environmental standards, optimization of transport connectivity, development of energy-efficient engineering systems, expansion of green spaces, as well as pedestrian- and bicycle-oriented street design. In addition, measures aimed at improving public transportation systems and ensuring efficient resource management are also planned.

Speaking to AZERTAC, Matthew Tribe noted that the foundation of the project was established through strategic initiatives focused on environmental restoration and urban regeneration.

He also noted that WUF13 contributes to more inclusive and sustainable urban development.

Speaking to AZERTAC, green building certification (BREEAM AP) specialist Ksenia Agapova emphasized that the implementation of international green building standards within Baku White City is contributing to the establishment of new sustainability benchmarks across the region.

According to Ksenia Agapova, three projects within Baku White City have already successfully achieved international BREEAM certification, including retail and office developments.

Among them is the landmark Baku White City Office Building, which became the first internationally certified green building in Azerbaijan after achieving a BREEAM rating of “Good.” The project is widely regarded as one of the milestone achievements in the country’s sustainable construction sector.

“In addition to the already certified projects, preparatory work is currently underway for the certification of around 10 residential buildings within Baku White City,” Ksenia noted.

According to her, the large-scale integration of international green certification standards within a single urban masterplan remains a rare example for the region.

“Baku White City is an outstanding example of how sustainability principles can be systematically integrated into urban development. Such an approach establishes new priorities in sustainable construction and environmental responsibility across the region,” the Ksenia added.

It should be noted that the aforementioned agreement is considered one of the important steps undertaken by Azerbaijan toward urban transformation in line with the sustainable development and climate agenda. The project is expected to make a significant contribution to shaping the modern urban identity of Baku.

ESG Factor team is proud to contribute to the transformation of Baku White City - one of the region’s most ambitious sustainable urban development projects.

With experience in BREEAM, LEED, and WELL certification across commercial, retail, office, and residential developments, our team continues to support projects aiming to achieve the highest international sustainability standards.

We welcome collaboration with developers, investors, and project teams seeking to create future-ready buildings and set new benchmarks in sustainable construction!