Building resilient infrastructure, promoting sustainable industrialization and fostering innovation

Goal 9 seeks to build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation.

Economic growth, social development and climate action depend heavily on investment in infrastructure, sustainable industrial development and technological progress. In a rapidly changing global economic landscape and growing inequality, sustainable growth must include industrialisation that is firstly inclusive and secondly supported by innovation and resilient infrastructure.

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, global manufacturing – considered an engine of overall economic growth – was already in steady decline due to tariffs and trade tensions. The pandemic-induced manufacturing slowdown has had a more severe impact on the global economy.

This is mainly due to high inflation, energy price shocks, persistent disruptions in the supply of raw materials and intermediate goods, and a global economic slowdown.

While Asia’s least developed countries have made significant progress, Africa’s least developed countries will need to change their current trajectory and accelerate progress significantly to reach the 2030 target. However, high- and medium-high-tech industries have shown strong growth.

How much progress have we made?

As of 2022, 95% of the world’s population will be within range of mobile broadband networks, but some areas remain unserved.

Investment in research and development globally – as well as funding for economic infrastructure in developing countries – has increased and impressive progress has been made in mobile connectivity, with nearly the entire world population (97%) living within range of a mobile signal.

What needs to be done?

Investing in infrastructure – transport, water, energy, information and communications technology – is essential to achieving sustainable development and empowering communities in many countries. Achieving Goal 9 by 2030 will require supporting least developed countries, investing in advanced technology, reducing carbon emissions and increasing access to mobile broadband.

Why should I care?

Inclusive and sustainable industrialization, together with innovation and infrastructure, can unleash dynamic and competitive economic forces to create jobs and incomes. They play a vital role in introducing and promoting new technologies, facilitating international trade and enabling the efficient use of resources.

The development of new industries means improved living standards for many of us. If industries pursue sustainability, this approach will have a positive impact on the environment.

What is the cost of inaction?

The price is high. Ending poverty will be harder because the sector is a core driver of the global development agenda to eradicate poverty and promote sustainable development. In addition, failure to improve infrastructure and promote technological innovation can lead to poor health care, inadequate sanitation, and limited access to education.

How can we help?

Set standards and promote regulations to ensure corporate projects and initiatives are managed sustainably.

Partner with NGOs and the public sector to help promote sustainable growth in developing countries.

Think about the impact the industry has on your life and well-being, and use social media to push policymakers to prioritize the SDGs.