Goal 9 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals underscores the importance of building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialisation, and fostering innovation to support economic growth and human well-being globally.
Infrastructure forms the backbone of societies, facilitating economic activities, connectivity, and access to essential services. A resilient infrastructure is crucial for withstanding natural disasters and other shocks, ensuring continuity and stability.
To achieve this, efforts are directed towards developing quality, reliable, sustainable, and inclusive infrastructure, including regional and transborder projects. The goal emphasises affordable and equitable access to infrastructure for all individuals, irrespective of their background or location.
What does UN SDG 10 include?
According to the UN, the targets outlined under Goal 9 provide a roadmap for action to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive industrialisation, and foster innovation:
Develop sustainable, resilient, and inclusive infrastructures (Target 9.1): Investing in quality, reliable, and sustainable infrastructure, including regional and transborder infrastructure, supports economic development and ensures affordable and equitable access for all.
Promote inclusive and sustainable industrialisation (Target 9.2): Encouraging inclusive and sustainable industrialisation can significantly contribute to employment generation and economic growth, particularly in developing countries and least developed countries.
Increase access to financial services and markets (Target 9.3): Improving access to financial services, including affordable credit, for small-scale enterprises and integrating them into value chains and markets fosters economic development and entrepreneurship.
Upgrade all industries and infrastructures for sustainability (Target 9.4): By 2030, upgrading infrastructure and industries to enhance resource-use efficiency and adopt clean and environmentally sound technologies can mitigate environmental impacts and promote sustainable development.
Enhance research and upgrade industrial technologies (Target 9.5): Investing in scientific research and upgrading technological capabilities, particularly in developing countries, stimulates innovation and contributes to economic growth and industrial development.
Facilitate sustainable infrastructure development for developing countries (Target 9.6): Providing financial, technological, and technical support to developing countries, including African countries, least developed countries, and small island developing States, promotes sustainable infrastructure development and resilience.
Support domestic technology development and industrial diversification (Target 9.7): Creating a conducive policy environment for domestic technology development, research, and innovation enhances industrial diversification and value addition to commodities in developing countries.
Ensure universal access to information and communications technology (Target 9.8): Increasing access to information and communications technology (ICT) and striving to provide universal and affordable access to the Internet, particularly in least developed countries, promotes digital inclusion and facilitates socio-economic development.
By implementing these targets and fostering collaboration among governments, businesses, and civil society, countries can build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive industrialisation, and foster innovation, paving the way for sustainable development and prosperity for all, the United Nations said.
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