SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation and infrastructure

In 2015, leaders from 193 different countries agreed on 17 global goals they felt the world needed to achieve by 2030. The ninth goal is Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, which is about developing and promoting sustainable industry and enhancing innovation.

When we talk about climate change and how we should tackle this crisis, oftentimes we think of the most pressing issues such as poverty, biodiversity loss, climate action, and gender equality.

But how does ‘Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure’ fit into this picture, and is this SDG a vital part of solving the climate crisis, and if so, how? We will be discussing this in this week’s blog!

What is the aim of SDG 9?

SDG 9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure aims to develop and promote sustainable industry and enhance innovation. It is known that diverse economies with strong infrastructures often sustain less damage and experience faster recovery from potential economic challenges. SDG 9 recognizes the importance and essential development of research and innovation for finding lasting solutions to social, economic, and environmental challenges.

Are we on track to achieve SDG 9?

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on the trajectory and progress of SDG 9 in the short term, its long-term impacts are still yet to be seen. From the SDG9 indicators report, it shows that industrialized countries continue to dominate global manufacturing industries, but it is also noted that their relative share had declined over the past decade. In 2010, industrialized economies represented up to 60% of global production which has now decreased to 50% in 2020. In terms of least developed countries, which are at the heart of the 2030 agenda, progress towards their development is diverse. For example, Asian Least developed countries (LDC) are on track to double their share of manufacturing in GDP resulting in meeting SDG target 9.2, whereas African LDC has become slow in their development.

Within the SDG 9 Industry Index which evaluates the progress of this SDG, it was revealed that the top five scoring countries are exclusively industrialized economies with Taiwan, the Province of China, Ireland, Switzerland, the Republic of Korea, and Germany being the top five, and in general industrialized countries perform better when looking at the targets of SDG 9.

The countries at the bottom of this ranking and not on track to achieve this SDG now are LDCs in particular those located in sub-Saharan Africa. Some African countries have shown impressive growth rates and growth has been driven by an extended commodity boom and foreign capital inflows!

It is also clear from research there is a large data gap in relation to the progress of some countries with this SDG. In the index, only 24 out of 54 African countries are included from which only eight are at LDCs.

It is clear that there is still a huge amount of work to be done in order to achieve this SDG particularly when it comes to data collection and reporting.

What is the importance of this SDG?

Basic infrastructure such as roads, sanitation, electrical power, and water remains in short supply in many developing countries.

It is estimated that 1.2 billion people do not have access to reliable phone services, 800 million people lack access to water and 2.3 billion people lack assess to basic sanitation worldwide. SDG 9 seeks to improve such development with a particular focus on developing countries.

For example, if industrialization occurs, for every one job in manufacturing this creates 2.2 jobs in other sectors, overall, this SDG will have an incredibly positive impact on society.

It is important to understand that the growth of industries means the improvement of the standard of living for many people worldwide, and if these new industries pursue sustainability this will also have a positive effect on the environment.

Overall, the inaction of this SDG will make it extremely difficult to achieve other SDGs like no poverty, as the industry has a vital role to play in the eradication of poverty and advancing sustainable development.

How can we achieve this sustainable development goal?

Governments have a big part to play in the implementation of this SDG. They can help achieve this SDG by investing in the development of sustainable infrastructure which includes investing in renewable energy projects, building efficient public transport systems and promoting the use of clean technologies. By prioritizing sustainable infrastructure projects, governments can create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future.

The private sector can also support this SDG in many ways, including adopting and implementing sustainable business practices. This includes incorporating environmentally friendly and resource-efficient processes in their operations, minimizing waste and emissions, and promoting the use of renewable energy sources. The private sector can also support this SDG by forming partnerships and collaborating with governments, NGOs, academic institutions, and local communities to develop sustainable infrastructure projects, share knowledge and expertise and leverage resources. 

Actions you can take!

1. Create a hotspot map with publicly accessible Wi-Fi locations! By spreading these locations through social media, flyers, or through your community you can help others get access to the internet.
2. Look at your current employer, do they invest in new resilient infrastructure in developing countries? Use any influence you have either professionally or personally to spread the importance of this SDG!

Build a Resilient and Sustainable Future

Want to lead the way in fostering sustainable industry and innovative infrastructure? The ESG Leader Programme gives you the expertise to create resilient systems, integrate clean technologies, and drive impactful change in your organization. Don’t miss your chance—enroll today for the next cohort!

The FSG Team 💚