The objectives and activities of the UNCRD are to:
- Serve as a training and research centre in regional development and planning and related fields for developing countries which may wish to avail themselves of its services
- Provide advisory services in regional development and planning and related fields at the request of developing countries
- Assist developing countries in promoting the exchange of data on research, practical experience, teaching, and other relevant subjects in regional development and planning and related fields
- Assist and cooperate with other organizations, national or international, concerned with regional development and planning and related fields
The UNCRD is an actor in the Coalition's Municipal Solid Waste initiative.