SDG Education

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Curriculum integration
Curriculum Integration of SDGs
Meaningful Education Around the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Navoi State University (NSU) is dedicated to embedding the principles and values of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into its academic curriculum, research activities, and community engagement initiatives. The university strives to prepare graduates who possess not only professional competence but also a strong awareness of sustainability, social responsibility, and global citizenship.
In line with Uzbekistan’s national development priorities, NSU promotes Meaningful Education around the SDGs through an interdisciplinary approach that connects theory with real-world applications. The university’s diverse programs in education, natural sciences, social sciences, economics, medicine, and physical education provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to address the key sustainability challenges of the 21st century.
SDG-Linked Curriculum
To ensure that every student is exposed to sustainability concepts and practices, the SDGs are integrated across multiple courses and disciplines. The following subjects incorporate the principles of sustainable development, human well-being, and environmental responsibility:
  • Education and Pedagogy: Inclusive Education, Critical Pedagogy, Creative Pedagogy, Quality Management in Education, Leadership and Management, Digital Pedagogy, Family and School Cooperation in Raising Children with Special Needs.
  • Health and Life Sciences: Public Health, Hygiene and Medical Ecology, Diet in an Active Sports Life, Human Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Preventive Medicine.
  • Physical Education and Sports: Theory and Methodology of Physical Culture, Adaptive Physical Education, Sports Management, Ecology and Sports, Green Campus Initiatives.
  • Psychology and Social Sciences: Medical Psychology, Social Work, Personality Psychology, Psychology of Leadership, Social Conflicts and Their Management, Moral and Legal Foundations of the Fight Against Corruption.
  • Natural Sciences and Geography: Ecology and Nature Protection, Sustainable Development, Geoecological Culture, Global Climate Change and Its Impact on Natural Resources of Uzbekistan, Environmentally Clean Energy Types.
  • Economics and Management: Strategic Management, Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship and Start-UP, Economic Security, World Economy and International Relations, Project Management, and Social Responsibility in Business.
This integration ensures that all students, regardless of their field of study, engage with SDG themes and understand their connection to future professional practice, local community development, and global sustainability. (link)
Regular workshops are organized across faculties to equip students and academic staff with sustainability-related competencies. These sessions focus on developing leadership, innovation, and community engagement skills while emphasizing ethical and environmental responsibility.
Examples include:
  • Workshop on Integrating SDGs into Teaching and Learning Practices (SDG 4 – Quality Education)
  • Digital Skills for Sustainable Development (SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure)
  • Promoting Gender Equality in Higher Education (SDG 5 – Gender Equality)
  • Climate Literacy and Environmental Responsibility (SDG 13 – Climate Action)
  • Leadership and Community Partnership for the SDGs (SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals)
These interactive workshops encourage participants to share experiences, identify sustainability challenges in their disciplines, and co-develop innovative solutions.
1. A seminar-training workshop was conducted at the Faculty of Economics of Navoi State University by specialists from the Higher School of Business and Entrepreneurship under the Cabinet of Ministers. The workshop addressed current topics in economics, business management, human resource management, tourism and hospitality, and logistics.
Students received detailed guidance on modern management approaches, innovative business ideas, and opportunities in the tourism sector. Experts shared practical experiences, provided recommendations useful for students’ future professional careers, and established agreements for students’ internships in relevant organizations.
At the conclusion of the workshop, students had the opportunity to ask questions and were reminded of the importance of continual skill development, acquiring modern knowledge, and maintaining competitiveness in the labor market.
Relevance to other SDGs:
  • SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth: Enhances students’ employability and entrepreneurial skills.
  • SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: Promotes innovation and practical business knowledge among young professionals.
2. As part of preparations for international accreditation, Navoi State University, in cooperation with the ACQUIN international accreditation organization, scheduled an accreditation review on September 18–19 of this year. International experts from ACQUIN will evaluate the bachelor’s and master’s programs in Mathematics, Biology, and Foreign Languages and Literature: English Language. This process aims to ensure that the university’s programs meet international quality standards, enhancing the quality and competitiveness of higher education.
Relevance to other SDGs:
  • SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth: Ensures graduates gain internationally recognized qualifications that improve employability.
SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Strengthens international collaboration in higher education and knowledge exchange.
3. Environmental Action “Allocate Space for Life” Dedicated to World Cleanup Day
An environmental action titled “Allocate Space for Life” was organized in Alisher Navoi Central Park in Navoi city, dedicated to the observance of World Cleanup Day.
The event aimed to raise environmental awareness and promote a culture of cleanliness, health, and responsibility among young people. Volunteer groups consisting of students from the Faculty of Languages and the Faculty of History of Navoi State University took an active part in the initiative.
During the event, participants combined jogging activities with environmental cleanup, demonstrating the importance of integrating physical well-being and ecological responsibility. The initiative promoted the values of sustainable living, teamwork, and civic engagement.
This activity contributed to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
  • SDG 13 – Climate Action: encouraging proactive engagement in environmental protection and waste reduction;
  • SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: promoting a healthy lifestyle through physical activity;
  • SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities: fostering public participation in keeping urban spaces clean and livable;
  • SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: strengthening collaboration between the university, local authorities, and community organizations.
Through this initiative, Navoi State University reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability and active youth participation in building a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment.
4. Workshop “Environmental Culture – The Foundation of a Healthy Society”
A workshop titled “Environmental Culture – The Foundation of a Healthy Society” was organized by the Faculty of Exact Sciences of Navoi State University in cooperation with the Navoiy City Council of the Ecological Party of Uzbekistan.
The workshop focused on raising environmental awareness and promoting sustainable living practices among youth. During the roundtable discussions, participants examined key issues such as preventing ecological crises, developing clean and healthy lifestyles, and strengthening love and care for nature among students.
Faculty tutors and active students shared their ideas and proposals on how to increase ecological responsibility and promote a culture of sustainability within the university and the wider community.
At the conclusion of the event, participants emphasized the importance of turning environmental consciousness into a daily habit and encouraged everyone to take an active role in protecting and preserving the natural environment.
This workshop directly contributed to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
  • SDG 13 – Climate Action: promoting environmental awareness and preventive action against ecological crises;
  • SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: advocating for a clean and healthy lifestyle;
  • SDG 4 – Quality Education: fostering environmental education and youth engagement;
  • SDG 15 – Life on Land: encouraging respect for and protection of terrestrial ecosystems;
  • SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: strengthening collaboration between the university and the Ecological Party to achieve sustainable outcomes.
Through this workshop, Navoi State University reaffirmed its dedication to building a generation of environmentally conscious citizens who recognize the intrinsic link between ecological culture and a healthy, sustainable society.
5. Implementation of the “Clean Hands” National Program
Within the framework of improving public health and hygiene culture in Uzbekistan, the “Clean Hands” National Program is being implemented to expand access to sanitary and hygiene facilities, especially among young people and students.
The program emphasizes the importance of proper hand hygiene as a key component of disease prevention and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle. Under this initiative, all healthcare and educational institutions across the country, including Navoi State University, are being equipped with hand-washing stations, while canteens and public dining areas are provided with soap and antiseptic supplies.
This program also aims to raise public awareness on hygiene practices and ensure sustainable access to clean and safe sanitation facilities. It reflects the country’s strong commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly:
  • SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: improving hygiene and reducing the spread of infectious diseases;
  • SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation: ensuring access to adequate sanitation and hygiene for all;
  • SDG 4 – Quality Education: integrating hygiene education and awareness-raising activities into educational settings;
  • SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: fostering cooperation between educational institutions, public health authorities, and community organizations.
Through the implementation of the “Clean Hands” initiative, Navoi State University continues to contribute to building a healthier academic environment and promoting sustainable hygiene practices among students and staff.
University Seminars and Awareness Campaigns
NSU hosts public lectures, student forums, and faculty seminars that raise awareness of sustainable development issues at the local and global levels.
Topics have included:
  • The role of education in promoting sustainable societies
  • Youth participation in achieving SDGs
  • Green Campus and Eco-friendly initiatives at universities
  • Ethical and inclusive leadership in academia
Such events bring together students, researchers, and local community representatives, fostering collaboration and shared responsibility for achieving sustainability.
6. Seminar on Supporting Women and Implementing the “Uzbekistan–2030” Strategy
At Navoi State University, a seminar was organized to explain the essence and objectives of the State Program for the Implementation of the “Uzbekistan–2030” Strategy within the framework of the “Year of Supporting Youth and Business.”
The event aimed to raise awareness among university staff about the national priorities for sustainable development, with a particular focus on gender equality, support for women, and empowerment in the social and economic spheres.
During the roundtable discussion, experts presented insights into:
  • the main directions of the State Program,
  • the ongoing national efforts to promote gender equality and strengthen the role of women in society (SDG 5),
  • initiatives designed to support youth and women’s entrepreneurship (SDG 8), and
  • the vital role of mothers in child upbringing and family well-being (SDG 4 – Quality Education).
This seminar contributed to advancing NSU’s institutional commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, encouraging academic and administrative staff to integrate gender-sensitive and inclusive approaches into education, management, and community engagement practices.
7. Seminar on Gender Equality and Women’s Health in the New Uzbekistan
A seminar titled “Gender Equality Issues and Women’s Health in the New Uzbekistan” was organized by the Faculty of Uzbek Language and Literature and the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics at Navoi State University for fourth-year students.
The event aimed to enhance students’ awareness of gender equality, women’s rights, and public health as integral components of sustainable development. During the seminar, participants received detailed explanations and practical insights on the following themes:
  • The Role of Gender Equality in Society
  • Reproductive Health and the Formation of Healthy Families
  • Enhancing Legal Literacy of Female Students to Promote Gender Equality
  • Gender Equality Issues in the Development of the New Uzbekistan
The seminar emphasized the importance of women’s empowerment, reproductive well-being, and inclusive participation in social life, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals — SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), and SDG 4 (Quality Education).
This event contributed to promoting gender-sensitive perspectives among students, strengthening their understanding of equality, health, and human rights within the context of Uzbekistan’s sustainable development vision.
8. As part of the “Month of Art and Creativity” in Navoi region, Navoi State University organized a seminar-training and roundtable discussion on “Combating Plagiarism.” The event focused on preventing plagiarism during dissertation writing and reinforcing the principles of academic integrity. This initiative promotes scientific collaboration, responsible use of knowledge, and sustainable academic development, directly supporting SDG Target 17.4.
Relevance to other SDGs:
  • SDG 4 – Quality Education: Promoting academic integrity and combating plagiarism contributes to ensuring quality education.
SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: Strengthening academic honesty and preventing unfair practices support justice and integrity within institutions.
9. At the 19th Regional iDMU in Navoi city, a regional seminar titled “Lessons from the Khamsa” was held in celebration of the “Year of Alisher Navoi” and the 584th anniversary of Hazrat Navoi’s birth. The seminar focused on the literary heritage of Alisher Navoi, fostering cultural awareness and enriching students’ knowledge of national literature, thereby contributing to quality education and lifelong learning. 
Relevance to other SDGs:
  • SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities: Promoting cultural heritage helps preserve community identity and history.
SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: Encouraging understanding of national heritage supports social cohesion and informed citizenship.

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10. A training seminar dedicated to promoting volunteerism and establishing a nationwide eco-volunteer network was held at Navoi State University, organized in cooperation with the Youth Affairs Agency, the Volunteers Association, and the Ecologist Public Association.
The seminar brought together 70 active volunteers from different regions of Uzbekistan under the concept of “Peer-to-Peer Education.” The goal of the event was to strengthen youth engagement in environmental protection, community development, and sustainable initiatives through knowledge-sharing and collaboration.
During the workshop, participants discussed and practiced:
  • Principles of eco-volunteerism and community-based sustainability projects;
  • The role of young people in promoting environmental awareness and climate responsibility;
  • Strengthening cooperation among youth organizations to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs);
  • Leadership, teamwork, and innovative approaches in volunteer activities.
This seminar supported the advancement of multiple SDGs, including:
  • SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: through inter-institutional cooperation between NSU, government agencies, and NGOs;
  • SDG 13 – Climate Action: by promoting eco-volunteer initiatives and environmental awareness;
  • SDG 4 – Quality Education: through peer-led learning and capacity building;
  • SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities: by encouraging youth participation in sustainable urban and regional development.
The event served as an effective platform for fostering cooperation between educational institutions, civil society organizations, and active youth, contributing to the creation of a sustainable and environmentally responsible volunteer movement across Uzbekistan.
Research Activities and Publications Related to the SDGs
Navoi State University (NSU) actively supports research and innovation initiatives that contribute to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The university encourages faculty and students to conduct interdisciplinary research addressing pressing social, environmental, educational, and technological challenges. Research projects at NSU are focused on key SDG-related areas, including quality education (SDG 4), gender equality (SDG 5), clean water and sanitation (SDG 6), affordable and clean energy (SDG 7), industry, innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9), climate action (SDG 13), and partnerships for the goals (SDG 17).
The following research publications illustrate NSU’s contributions to sustainability-oriented research and innovation:
№
Title of Publication
SDG Alignment
Thematic Focus
1
Academic Chain: Securing Educational Credentials with Blockchain-Enabled Systems
SDG 4, SDG 9, SDG 16
Digital innovation and transparency in education
2
Analyzing the Sources and Consequences of Atmospheric Pollution: A Case Study of the Navoi Region
SDG 13, SDG 15
Environmental protection and regional sustainability
3
Methods of Developing Professional Competence in Students Through the Use of Digital Technologies
SDG 4, SDG 9
Educational quality and digital skills development
4
Improving Innovative Activities Based on Software in Digital Learning Environments
SDG 4, SDG 9
Technological innovation in higher education
5
Optimizing Mechanical Engineering Curriculum Design Using AI and Machine Learning
SDG 4, SDG 9
Artificial intelligence and STEM education
6
Opportunities for Developing Independent Educational Activity of Future Teachers Based on Digital Technologies
SDG 4
Independent learning and teacher training
7
Use of Blended Educational Technology in Organizing Students’ Independent Education of Programming Languages
SDG 4, SDG 9
Blended learning and digital pedagogy
8
Methods and Use of Wastewater Phytoremediation Intensification in the Mining Industry
SDG 6, SDG 9, SDG 13
Clean water and environmental innovation
9
Environmental Factors of Students’ Professional Orientation in Extracurricular Activities
SDG 4, SDG 13
Environmental education and youth development
10
The Role of Digital Innovations and Human Resource Potential in Advancing Education
SDG 4, SDG 8
Innovation and human capital development
11
Methodology of Organizing Independent Education of Future Biology Teachers
SDG 4
Quality education and science teacher training
12
Age and Growth of Two Bream Species in the Tudakul Reservoir of Uzbekistan
SDG 14, SDG 15
Biodiversity and sustainable aquatic ecosystems
13
Influence of Abiotic Factors on Biodiversity of Bivalve Molluscs in the Lower Zarafshan Reservoirs
SDG 13, SDG 15
Climate impact on biodiversity
14
Growth of Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in the Conditions of Tashkent Province, Uzbekistan
SDG 2, SDG 15
Sustainable aquaculture and food resources
15
Aspects of Modernization of Chemistry Education through Information Technology
SDG 4, SDG 9
Educational innovation in STEM
16
Current State of Coenopopulations of Some Rare Endemic Species in Navoi Region, Uzbekistan
SDG 15
Conservation and ecosystem protection
17
Pandemics and Their Geographical Distribution
SDG 3
Public health and epidemiological mapping
18
Waste Water Treatment of Mining Enterprises in Uzbekistan Using Higher Aquatic Plants
SDG 6, SDG 13, SDG 15
Eco-friendly water purification and industrial sustainability
19
Morphological Characteristics of Carp (Carassius gibelio) in Pond Fish Farming in Uzbekistan
SDG 2, SDG 15
Sustainable food production and aquatic ecology
20
Fabrication of an Economical and Environmentally Friendly Electrode Utilizing Fullerene Modified with L-Proline and Copper Nanoparticles
SDG 9, SDG 12
Green chemistry and eco-friendly technology
21
The Role of AI-Driven Intelligent Tutoring Systems in Enhancing Mechanical Engineering Education
SDG 4, SDG 9
AI in education and digital learning tools
22
Novel Eco-Friendly Electrode: Copper Nanoparticle-Doped MWCNTs for Green Electro-Organic Synthesis of 1,2,3-Triazoles
SDG 9, SDG 12
Sustainable industrial chemistry
23
Econometric Modeling and Forecasting of Environmental Conditions and Population Health: Case Study of Navoi and Zarafshan Cities
SDG 3, SDG 11, SDG 13
Urban sustainability and health research
24
Effective Methods for Organizing Laboratory Sessions in Programming Language Courses
SDG 4, SDG 9
Pedagogical innovation in digital education
Through these publications, Navoi State University demonstrates its strong research engagement with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The diversity of research topics—from digital innovation and education quality to environmental protection and public health—reflects NSU’s commitment to interdisciplinary and impactful scholarship aligned with global sustainability priorities.
Navoi State University is deeply committed to outreach and educational activities that engage the wider community, including alumni, local residents, and displaced individuals. The university recognizes the importance of extending its impact beyond the campus, contributing to the personal and professional development of various community groups, and fostering a culture of lifelong learning. NSPI regularly organizes educational programs for local residents, offering a variety of non-degree courses, workshops, and seminars on topics ranging from basic literacy and digital skills to sustainable farming practices and environmental awareness. These programs are designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of the local population, improving their ability to contribute to sustainable development within their communities.
SDG 1
Eradicating poverty in all its forms remains one of the greatest challenges facing humanity. While the number of people living in extreme poverty dropped by more than half between 1990 and 2015, too many are still struggling for the most basic human needs.
As of 2015, about 736 million people still lived on less than US$1.90 a day; many lack food, clean drinking water and sanitation. Rapid growth in countries such as China and India has lifted millions out of poverty, but progress has been uneven. Women are more likely to be poor than men because they have less paid work, education, and own less property.
Progress has also been limited in other regions, such as South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, which account for 80 percent of those living in extreme poverty. New threats brought on by climate change, conflict and food insecurity, mean even more work is needed to bring people out of poverty.
The SDGs are a bold commitment to finish what we started, and end poverty in all forms and dimensions by 2030. This involves targeting the most vulnerable, increasing basic resources and services, and supporting communities affected by conflict and climate-related disasters.
SDG 2
The number of undernourished people has dropped by almost half in the past two decades because of rapid economic growth and increased agricultural productivity. Many developing countries that used to suffer from famine and hunger can now meet their nutritional needs. Central and East Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean have all made huge progress in eradicating extreme hunger.
Unfortunately, extreme hunger and malnutrition remain a huge barrier to development in many countries. There are 821 million people estimated to be chronically undernourished as of 2017, often as a direct consequence of environmental degradation, drought and biodiversity loss. Over 90 million children under five are dangerously underweight. Undernourishment and severe food insecurity appear to be increasing in almost all regions of Africa, as well as in South America.
The SDGs aim to end all forms of hunger and malnutrition by 2030, making sure all people–especially children–have sufficient and nutritious food all year. This involves promoting sustainable agricultural, supporting small-scale farmers and equal access to land, technology and markets. It also requires international cooperation to ensure investment in infrastructure and technology to improve agricultural productivity.
SDG 3
We have made great progress against several leading causes of death and disease. Life expectancy has increased dramatically; infant and maternal mortality rates have declined, we’ve turned the tide on HIV and malaria deaths have halved.
Good health is essential to sustainable development and the 2030 Agenda reflects the complexity and interconnectedness of the two. It takes into account widening economic and social inequalities, rapid urbanization, threats to the climate and the environment, the continuing burden of HIV and other infectious diseases, and emerging challenges such as noncommunicable diseases. Universal health coverage will be integral to achieving SDG 3, ending poverty and reducing inequalities. Emerging global health priorities not explicitly included in the SDGs, including antimicrobial resistance, also demand action.
But the world is off-track to achieve the health-related SDGs. Progress has been uneven, both between and within countries. There’s a 31-year gap between the countries with the shortest and longest life expectancies. And while some countries have made impressive gains, national averages hide that many are being left behind. Multisectoral, rights-based and gender-sensitive approaches are essential to address inequalities and to build good health for all.
SDG 4
Since 2000, there has been enormous progress in achieving the target of universal primary education. The total enrollment rate in developing regions reached 91 percent in 2015, and the worldwide number of children out of school has dropped by almost half. There has also been a dramatic increase in literacy rates, and many more girls are in school than ever before. These are all remarkable successes.
Progress has also been tough in some developing regions due to high levels of poverty, armed conflicts and other emergencies. In Western Asia and North Africa, ongoing armed conflict has seen an increase in the number of children out of school. This is a worrying trend. While Sub-Saharan Africa made the greatest progress in primary school enrollment among all developing regions – from 52 percent in 1990, up to 78 percent in 2012 – large disparities still remain. Children from the poorest households are up to four times more likely to be out of school than those of the richest households. Disparities between rural and urban areas also remain high.
Achieving inclusive and quality education for all reaffirms the belief that education is one of the most powerful and proven vehicles for sustainable development. This goal ensures that all girls and boys complete free primary and secondary schooling by 2030. It also aims to provide equal access to affordable vocational training, to eliminate gender and wealth disparities, and achieve universal access to a quality higher education.
SDG 5
Ending all discrimination against women and girls is not only a basic human right, it’s crucial for sustainable future; it’s proven that empowering women and girls helps economic growth and development.
UNDP has made gender equality central to its work and we’ve seen remarkable progress in the past 20 years. There are more girls in school now compared to 15 years ago, and most regions have reached gender parity in primary education.
But although there are more women than ever in the labour market, there are still large inequalities in some regions, with women systematically denied the same work rights as men. Sexual violence and exploitation, the unequal division of unpaid care and domestic work, and discrimination in public office all remain huge barriers. Climate change and disasters continue to have a disproportionate effect on women and children, as do conflict and migration.
It is vital to give women equal rights land and property, sexual and reproductive health, and to technology and the internet. Today there are more women in public office than ever before, but encouraging more women leaders will help achieve greater gender equality.
SDG 6
Water scarcity affects more than 40 percent of people, an alarming figure that is projected to rise as temperatures do. Although 2.1 billion people have improved water sanitation since 1990, dwindling drinking water supplies are affecting every continent.
More and more countries are experiencing water stress, and increasing drought and desertification is already worsening these trends. By 2050, it is projected that at least one in four people will suffer recurring water shortages.
Safe and affordable drinking water for all by 2030 requires we invest in adequate infrastructure, provide sanitation facilities, and encourage hygiene. Protecting and restoring water-related ecosystems is essential.
Ensuring universal safe and affordable drinking water involves reaching over 800 million people who lack basic services and improving accessibility and safety of services for over two billion.
In 2015, 4.5 billion people lacked safely managed sanitation services (with adequately disposed or treated excreta) and 2.3 billion lacked even basic sanitation.
SDG 7
Between 2000 and 2018, the number of people with electricity increased from 78 to 90 percent, and the numbers without electricity dipped to 789 million.
Yet as the population continues to grow, so will the demand for cheap energy, and an economy reliant on fossil fuels is creating drastic changes to our climate.
Investing in solar, wind and thermal power, improving energy productivity, and ensuring energy for all is vital if we are to achieve SDG 7 by 2030.
Expanding infrastructure and upgrading technology to provide clean and more efficient energy in all countries will encourage growth and help the environment.
SDG 8
Over the past 25 years the number of workers living in extreme poverty has declined dramatically, despite the lasting impact of the 2008 economic crisis and global recession. In developing countries, the middle class now makes up more than 34 percent of total employment – a number that has almost tripled between 1991 and 2015.
However, as the global economy continues to recover we are seeing slower growth, widening inequalities, and not enough jobs to keep up with a growing labour force. According to the International Labour Organization, more than 204 million people were unemployed in 2015.
The SDGs promote sustained economic growth, higher levels of productivity and technological innovation. Encouraging entrepreneurship and job creation are key to this, as are effective measures to eradicate forced labour, slavery and human trafficking. With these targets in mind, the goal is to achieve full and productive employment, and decent work, for all women and men by 2030.
 SDG 9
Investment in infrastructure and innovation are crucial drivers of economic growth and development. With over half the world population now living in cities, mass transport and renewable energy are becoming ever more important, as are the growth of new industries and information and communication technologies.
Technological progress is also key to finding lasting solutions to both economic and environmental challenges, such as providing new jobs and promoting energy efficiency. Promoting sustainable industries, and investing in scientific research and innovation, are all important ways to facilitate sustainable development.
More than 4 billion people still do not have access to the Internet, and 90 percent are from the developing world. Bridging this digital divide is crucial to ensure equal access to information and knowledge, as well as foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
SDG 10
Income inequality is on the rise—the richest 10 percent have up to 40 percent of global income whereas the poorest 10 percent earn only between 2 to 7 percent. If we take into account population growth inequality in developing countries, inequality has increased by 11 percent.
Income inequality has increased in nearly everywhere in recent decades, but at different speeds. It’s lowest in Europe and highest in the Middle East.
These widening disparities require sound policies to empower lower income earners, and promote economic inclusion of all regardless of sex, race or ethnicity.
Income inequality requires global solutions. This involves improving the regulation and monitoring of financial markets and institutions, encouraging development assistance and foreign direct investment to regions where the need is greatest. Facilitating the safe migration and mobility of people is also key to bridging the widening divide.
SDG 11
More than half of us live in cities. By 2050, two-thirds of all humanity—6.5 billion people—will be urban. Sustainable development cannot be achieved without significantly transforming the way we build and manage our urban spaces.
The rapid growth of cities—a result of rising populations and increasing migration—has led to a boom in mega-cities, especially in the developing world, and slums are becoming a more significant feature of urban life.
Making cities sustainable means creating career and business opportunities, safe and affordable housing, and building resilient societies and economies. It involves investment in public transport, creating green public spaces, and improving urban planning and management in participatory and inclusive ways.
SDG 12
Achieving economic growth and sustainable development requires that we urgently reduce our ecological footprint by changing the way we produce and consume goods and resources. Agriculture is the biggest user of water worldwide, and irrigation now claims close to 70 percent of all freshwater for human use.
The efficient management of our shared natural resources, and the way we dispose of toxic waste and pollutants, are important targets to achieve this goal. Encouraging industries, businesses and consumers to recycle and reduce waste is equally important, as is supporting developing countries to move towards more sustainable patterns of consumption by 2030.
A large share of the world population is still consuming far too little to meet even their basic needs.  Halving the per capita of global food waste at the retailer and consumer levels is also important for creating more efficient production and supply chains. This can help with food security, and shift us towards a more resource efficient economy.
SDG 13
There is no country that is not experiencing the drastic effects of climate change. Greenhouse gas emissions are more than 50 percent higher than in 1990. Global warming is causing long-lasting changes to our climate system, which threatens irreversible consequences if we do not act.
The annual average economic losses from climate-related disasters are in the hundreds of billions of dollars. This is not to mention the human impact of geo-physical disasters, which are 91 percent climate-related, and which between 1998 and 2017 killed 1.3 million people, and left 4.4 billion injured. The goal aims to mobilize US$100 billion annually by 2020 to address the needs of developing countries to both adapt to climate change and invest in low-carbon development.
Supporting vulnerable regions will directly contribute not only to Goal 13 but also to the other SDGs. These actions must also go hand in hand with efforts to integrate disaster risk measures, sustainable natural resource management, and human security into national development strategies. It is still possible, with strong political will, increased investment, and using existing technology, to limit the increase in global mean temperature to two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, aiming at 1.5°C, but this requires urgent and ambitious collective action.
SDG 14
The world’s oceans – their temperature, chemistry, currents and life – drive global systems that make the Earth habitable for humankind. How we manage this vital resource is essential for humanity as a whole, and to counterbalance the effects of climate change.
Over three billion people depend on marine and coastal biodiversity for their livelihoods. However, today we are seeing 30 percent of the world’s fish stocks overexploited, reaching below the level at which they can produce sustainable yields.
Oceans also absorb about 30 percent of the carbon dioxide produced by humans, and we are seeing a 26 percent rise in ocean acidification since the beginning of the industrial revolution. Marine pollution, an overwhelming majority of which comes from land-based sources, is reaching alarming levels, with an average of 13,000 pieces of plastic litter to be found on every square kilometre of ocean.
The SDGs aim to sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems from pollution, as well as address the impacts of ocean acidification. Enhancing conservation and the sustainable use of ocean-based resources through international law will also help mitigate some of the challenges facing our oceans.
SDG 15
Human life depends on the earth as much as the ocean for our sustenance and livelihoods. Plant life provides 80 percent of the human diet, and we rely on agriculture as an important economic resources. Forests cover 30 percent of the Earth’s surface, provide vital habitats for millions of species, and important sources for clean air and water, as well as being crucial for combating climate change.
Every year, 13 million hectares of forests are lost, while the persistent degradation of drylands has led to the desertification of 3.6 billion hectares, disproportionately affecting poor communities.
While 15 percent of land is protected, biodiversity is still at risk. Nearly 7,000 species of animals and plants have been illegally traded. Wildlife trafficking not only erodes biodiversity, but creates insecurity, fuels conflict, and feeds corruption.
Urgent action must be taken to reduce the loss of natural habitats and biodiversity which are part of our common heritage and support global food and water security, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and peace and security.
SDG 16
We cannot hope for sustainable development without peace, stability, human rights and effective governance, based on the rule of law. Yet our world is increasingly divided. Some regions enjoy peace, security and prosperity, while others fall into seemingly endless cycles of conflict and violence. This is not inevitable and must be addressed.
Armed violence and insecurity have a destructive impact on a country’s development, affecting economic growth, and often resulting in grievances that last for generations. Sexual violence, crime, exploitation and torture are also prevalent where there is conflict, or no rule of law, and countries must take measures to protect those who are most at risk
The SDGs aim to significantly reduce all forms of violence, and work with governments and communities to end conflict and insecurity. Promoting the rule of law and human rights are key to this process, as is reducing the flow of illicit arms and strengthening the participation of developing countries in the institutions of global governance.
SDG 17
The SDGs can only be realized with strong global partnerships and cooperation. Official Development Assistance remained steady but below target, at US$147 billion in 2017. While humanitarian crises brought on by conflict or natural disasters continue to demand more financial resources and aid. Many countries also require Official Development Assistance to encourage growth and trade.
The world is more interconnected than ever. Improving access to technology and knowledge is an important way to share ideas and foster innovation. Coordinating policies to help developing countries manage their debt, as well as promoting investment for the least developed, is vital for sustainable growth and development.
The goals aim to enhance North-South and South-South cooperation by supporting national plans to achieve all the targets. Promoting international trade, and helping developing countries increase their exports is all part of achieving a universal rules-based and equitable trading system that is fair and open and benefits all.