You have likely seen or heard of the UN SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) before, whether during schooling, online, through brands, or in conversation. However, you may still want to learn more about what they are and why they are so important! Let’s dive into the SDGs together.
First with the Basics; what is sustainable development?
As defined by the United Nations, it is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. To comply with this type of development, practices must be inclusive, sustainable, and resilient for all people and, of course, the planet.
The three pillars of sustainability—economic growth, the environment, and society—are essential to achieve this type of development. To learn more about this topic, look at our recent post on the pillars here!
Where do climate change and sustainable development connect?
Tackling climate change drives sustainable development. Climate change impacts all areas of life, including food and water, migration patterns, health, and overall peace and security. If climate change is not addressed, many development measures and wins made over the last 10 years will be impacted.
As our climate continues to evolve and we see more of the impacts of climate change, we are expected to see an increase in climate-related disasters. These disasters directly impact nations that are particularly vulnerable to a greater degree. Most are either small island nations, landlocked, or least developed. Many of these areas are already working towards achieving SDGs, and in the event of a catastrophic weather event, for example, a cyclone, much of the hard work that is being done is at risk of ruin.
What are the UN Sustainable Development Goals?
The UN SDGs are 17 goals and 169 targets that act as a universal call on all countries within a global framework to take action. Many goals aim to eradicate poverty, protect our planet, and remove inequalities. They align with the 2030 agenda for sustainable development, which was adopted by all UN member states in 2015. The UN SDGs are aimed at global improvements across the 17 goals, not just in developing countries, which was the reality of the MDG’s (Millennium Development Goals). The SDG’s build on the success of the MDG’s and decades of work by the UN and countries, including the Earth Summit in Brazil (1992), the Johannesburg Declaration on Sustainable Development (2002), UN Conference on Sustainable Development in Brazil (2012), and the Open Working Group a dedicated 30 member assembly to develop the SDG proposal (2013).
While the SDGs are not legally binding, each country’s government is expected to set up its own framework and ownership for achieving each goal and national indicators to assess its progress towards the goals and targets. The goals are reviewed, and an SDG progress report prepared by the secretary-general is released annually. In addition to this report, annual meetings occur to discuss progress.
What are the 17 goals?
Click on the goals below to learn more about their individual targets, events, publications and actions!
1. No Poverty
End poverty in all its forms everywhere.
2. Zero Hunger
End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and support sustainable agriculture.
Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all ages.
Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning for all.
Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
7. Affordable and Clean Energy
Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.
8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all.
9. Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation.
Reduce inequality within and among countries.
11. Sustainable Cities and Communities
Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.
12. Responsible Consumption and Production
Ensure sustainable production and consumption patterns.
13. Climate Action
Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
14. Life Below Water
Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.
15. Life on Land
Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss.
16. Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels.
Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development.
Are Companies taking Action?
Many companies, especially impact businesses, have found UN SDGs that align with the mission and purpose of their business. The Global Reporting Institute found that out of their respondents, 83% of companies state they support the SDG’s. While only 69% of companies articulate goals that are relevant to business, and only 40% of these companies have set a measurable commitment. While the commitment level is lower than we would like to see, it is essential to note that a large number of companies do support these goals. With a changing business environment and increased mandated sustainability reporting, more will likely hop on board in a more measurable way.
Here are some notable companies pushing beyond support of UN SDGs and enacting real change and alignment!
Aligned with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure. Bridge for Billions aims to support entrepreneurs from all walks of life to boost economic growth, diversity, equity, inclusion, and innovation. They make this happen through entrepreneurship programs and have successfully had 4,764 entrepreneurs complete!
Aligned with SDGs 1, 3, 8, 9, 10, and 12! Circleg was recognized by the Swiss Green Economy Symposium in 2023 and awarded the SDG award for its solutions and projects and their alignment and implementation of the above-listed SDGs. Circleg specializes in freedom of mobility through prosthetic care that is socially and environmentally positive while celebrating diversity. It is tackling a massive gap in those needing prosthetic and orthotic care.
Aligned with SDGs 2, 12, 13, and 17, Too Good to Go offers a solution to unsold food goods that would otherwise be thrown out. The company acts as a bridge between businesses (restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores) and consumers to provide good food at a discounted rate. Reducing food waste contributes to climate action, as food waste is a large contributor to GHG emissions. The company has also partnered with the Daily Bread Food Bank, contributing a solution to food insecurity.
How to get involved?
You have taken the first step! Learning more about the UN SDGs is an excellent way to determine which goals you feel particularly drawn to or connect with. Pick a goal that resonates with you and do a little digging. Is there an organization that supports it that you can shop from, be a part of, or volunteer with? Look around your area; there may be more connections than you thought!
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