Care for a Corner: A 5-Minute Habit to Make Your City More Livable
A Simple Act with Visible Impact!
You don’t need to organize a big cleanup or start a formal program to make a difference in your city. You just need 5 minutes a week to care for one small public spot near your home or workplace.
This could be a sidewalk corner, a bus stop, a tree base, or a neglected planter. Your job? Just keep it clean, tidy, and a little greener. It’s easy, cost-free, and impactful.
This micro-action supports SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, which aims to make urban areas more inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
Why This Small Habit Matters
- Litter is a global issue: Around the world, over 2 billion tons of municipal solid waste are generated each year — and much of it ends up in public spaces. (Source: World Bank – What a Waste Report)
- Clean public areas improve safety and pride: Studies show that visible community care reduces vandalism and improves mental well-being. (Source: UN-Habitat: Public Space Toolkit)
- Green touches help biodiversity: Even a small patch of plants or a cleared sidewalk helps pollinators and reduces urban heat.
How to Do the “Care for a Corner” Habit
- Pick a Spot
Choose a small public space near you: a patch of dirt, a sidewalk edge, under a bench—anything manageable. - Spend 5 Minutes Weekly
- Remove visible trash
- Pull a few weeds
- Sweep leaves or sand
- Water an existing plant if needed
That’s it. Five minutes.
- Enhance It (If You Can)
- Add a small potted plant
- Paint a rock with a friendly message
- Add pebbles or mulch to beautify
Keep it tiny and simple—no landscaping required.
How to Get Local Support (Optional, but Helpful)
Even small efforts can benefit from visibility and backup:
- Find Your Local Authority or Municipality Site
Look for sections like “community involvement,” “public works,” or “beautification” on your city’s website. Many accept small improvement proposals or even donate plants/tools. - Send a Friendly Email
Ask:“Hi! I’d like to help care for a small public spot near my home. Is there any guidance or support available from the city?” - Join Local Clean-up or Gardening Groups
Search for “Your city + community gardening,” “green volunteer programs,” or “neighborhood cleanup groups.” They often welcome micro-volunteers. - Use Local Apps
Apps or city-specific portals let you report broken infrastructure or request help (e.g., for a trash bin or tool donation).
Put a small note or painted sign saying: “This corner is cared for by a neighbor. Feel free to join in!”
It builds community pride and invites others to take part—no formal group needed.
Pick one corner. Care for it once a week. Make your city a little cleaner, safer, and greener.
You don’t need a permit to show pride in your place. Just a few minutes and a little heart!