The SDGs Basic – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

Working ensures people’s financial security and also helps the improvement of society and the country’s economy. But unemployment is an ongoing problem all over the world. Poor countries turn to child labor to have enough money to buy basic needs. In the world, 160 million children—63 million girls and 97 million boys—are in child labor.

The delivery of services through economic and social infrastructure is one of the most important functions of the government. People want and need the availability of services like clean water, electricity, public transportation, and internet access. In particular, the Internet has become an essential infrastructure for today’s digital age. In 2018, 90% of people had internet access via 3G or higher-speed networks.

People living in rural areas can easily apply for micro-loans, take part in e-banking, and more thanks to the Internet. New technologies also support reducing education inequalities in developing countries. Mobile electronic devices such as tablets deliver learning opportunities to children living in even the most remote locations.

In 2019, thanks to the improvement of new renewable power sources, the amount of energy capacity was the highest ever. Over the next decade, digitally-enabled platforms are expected to account for 70 percent of new economic value created. As a result, one key to economic growth is the development of new technology, like 5G. For example, it would improve the quality of learning with rapid interactivity while using less energy. Additionally, the speed of 5G connectivity can help doctors perform remote surgery using virtual reality (VR) technology and 3D imaging. More possibilities will be open thanks to new technology.