As the 2030 deadline to achieve looms closer, the global community faces a stark reality: progress towards these ambitious goals is alarmingly off track, with many targets either stagnant or regressing due to ongoing crises like pandemics, conflicts, and economic instability.
Amidst these challenges
harnessing scientific insights has become more important than ever. Integrating interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches while leveraging advancements in science and technology offers a pathway to recalibrate efforts towards sustainable development, driving innovative solutions and strengthening science-policy-society interfaces across all levels.
The International Science Council,
Together with the World Federation of Engineering Organizations (WFEO), has recently prepared a paper
for the High-level Political Forum (HLPF) using 13 case studies showcasing the pivotal role of science in tackling complex global issues and outlining how science-based updated 2024 mobile phone number data decision-making and innovation can drive effective and equitable progress towards the SDGs.
1. Integrating global agendas for sustainable and resilient futures
The SDGs are an integral part of other global unleashing technology with meshy frameworks like the Paris Agreement on climate change and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, and require cohesive and integrated approaches. This synergy not only ensures concurrent achievement of multiple objectives but also mitigates unintended negative consequences. Given the escalating challenges posed by climate change and biodiversity loss, coupled with socio-economic disparities, cohesive and sustained efforts line data are essential to protect development gains.
One initiative
That exemplifies the efficacy of science-driven strategies in bolstering community resilience against climate-induced vulnerabilities is the Naryn Urban Resilience Project in Kyrgyzstan. By integrating local knowledge and scientific insights, projects like these foster sustainable urban development and advance progress across SDGs 2 (Zero hunger), 11 (Sustainable cities and communities), 13 (Climate action) and 17 (Partnership for the Goals). Such integrated approaches are key in navigating the increasingly complex risk landscapes and securing long-term sustainability.
2. Harnessing technology and innovation for equitable SDG implementation
Science plays a critical role in evaluating technologies, addressing ethical considerations and informing policies to mitigate inequality while aligning with the SDGs
Achieving the SDGs faster requires using scientific knowledge from natural and social sciences to guide transformative pathways and measure outcomes effectively. Evidence-based approaches are critical for prioritizing actions that fit specific contexts, considering how different SDGs can work together or conflict. It’s also about overcoming barriers to implementation and getting stakeholders to cooperate.
3. Leveraging science and evidence-based tools for accelerated SDG progress
The Greenhouse Gas and Air Pollution Interactions and Synergies (GAINS) model, developed by the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA), supports decision-making by proposing cost-effective strategies to manage air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, thereby contributing to SDGs 3 (Good health and well-being), 7 (Affordable and clean energy), 11 (Sustainable cities and communities) and 13 (Climate action).