Technology as a Catalyst for Achieving the UN's Sustainable Development Goals
In the modern business landscape, every industry is being revolutionized by digital technology. Traditional sectors, including manufacturing, are being disrupted by innovative business models (1). This transformation is particularly evident in the manufacturing sector, where advancements in ICT are driving a shift towards smarter, more sustainable practices (2).
The Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, and robotics are key drivers of this change. IoT enables real-time monitoring of energy use, emissions, and waste streams throughout manufacturing processes, allowing companies to optimize resource consumption and minimize environmental impact (3). Sensors and connected devices make sustainability efforts measurable, auditable, and continuously improvable by providing instant data on machine performance, energy usage, and material waste (3).
Cloud computing supports this by enabling the storage, processing, and analysis of vast amounts of IoT-generated data, which AI systems can then use to automate adjustments for maximum efficiency (4). AI-driven automation and predictive maintenance reduce downtime, energy use, and material waste—further contributing to sustainable manufacturing (4).
Robotics and automation enhance precision and reduce human error, which lowers material waste and energy consumption. Integration of robotics and IoT leads to smart factories where machines communicate and self-optimize, enabling lean manufacturing that cuts costs and carbon footprints (4). IoT-driven supply chain visibility improves resilience and sustainability by allowing dynamic adjustments that reduce delays and excess inventory (1).
Beyond operational improvements, the use of advanced materials and clean energy, combined with IoT and AI, supports closed-loop manufacturing processes with lower environmental impacts (1). For example, recycling overspray in powder coating or exploring greener materials like perovskites for solar panels (1).
This transformation aligns strongly with multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those focused on environmental sustainability, industry innovation, and responsible resource use (2).
In a separate development, the tech industry is focusing on empowering the workforce, particularly women. Offering code clubs and providing role models can inspire girls to pursue careers in tech (5). Support, encouragement, and new skills are necessary for women returning to the tech workforce (6). Prioritizing digital literacy in schools is crucial for encouraging students to study STEM subjects (7).
The industry is also addressing the skills shortage Europe is facing by collaborating with education providers, public and private actors to attract young people into ICT education and retraining unemployed people (8). Breaking down gender stereotypes in the tech industry is essential (9).
The tech industry is also taking steps to ensure digital access for all. ICT can provide equal access to information, learning, education, and healthcare for all (10). The Digital Single Market emphasizes digital literacy, skills, and inclusion as key focuses (11).
Organizations that embrace agile leadership, originally developed for software development, claim 70% higher profit growth and 50% higher revenue growth (12). Agile leadership is becoming the de facto methodology used across all business, offering a lasting competitive advantage (12).
Technological advances have the potential to disrupt the job market as more roles are automated. This necessitates attention to re-skilling the existing workforce and encouraging more young people to consider careers in STEM (13).
Lastly, the tech industry is taking a proactive role in addressing global challenges. The Sustainability and Innovation Conference in Brussels launched the third edition of the EU ICT Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Benchmark report, commissioned by Huawei and undertaken by Sustainability, with support from CSR Europe (14). The event brought together key stakeholders from business, cities, civil society, and government to discuss how technology can aid in achieving the UN SDGs for sustainable economic growth and development (14).
CA Technologies, through their Create Tomorrow program, has worked with over 10,000 young people (15). They have also signed up to the Digital Skills & Jobs Coalition in 2015 (16). The company is committed to digital literacy, skills, and inclusion, recognizing these as crucial for a sustainable and innovative future.
In conclusion, the intersection of ICT and manufacturing is driving a transformation towards smarter, more sustainable practices. Simultaneously, the tech industry is focusing on empowering the workforce, particularly women, and ensuring digital access for all. These developments highlight the potential of technology to address global challenges and drive sustainable economic growth and development.
- Embracing technology in education and self-development, such as digital literacy and skills training, is crucial for encouraging students to pursue STEM subjects and careers, particularly for women, as individuals and organizations strive to address the skills shortage and gender disparities in the tech industry.
- The integration of technology in the manufacturing sector, including IoT, cloud computing, AI, and robotics, not only drives operational improvements, such as resource optimization, energy savings, and waste reduction, but also aligns strongly with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals focused on environmental sustainability, industry innovation, and responsible resource use.
