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Sustainable Development Goals

The United Nations have issued 17 ambitious goals to try and build a better, fairer, and more sustainable future for the world.

Sustainable Development Goal 9 aims to build up reliable infrastructure and promote innovation in order to help developing nations escape poverty.

Inclusive and sustainable industry is important for any country's economy and the employment and income of its people.

Increased use of technology is a huge part of modern industry. Countries that lack technology and reliable infrastructure to support industry and business risk being left behind.

The infrastructure and innovation needed for countries can include:

• Reliable and affordable internet and robust mobile phone networks.
• Transport networks to allow people to travel and access services
• Stable electricity grids to power factories, schools and other organisations.
• Water supply and treatment to provide clean, safe water and help prevent disease
• Access to financial markets to raise money to fund new projects.
• The ability to trade fairly with other nations.

Impact of Covid-19

Covid-19 and social distancing have led many businesses and services to digitalise how they work.

There has been much more use of sharing online resources, video conferencing and providing services online. This has helped key services keep working, including education and healthcare.

But around the world . The poorest and most disadvantaged people are the ones who are missing out most.

Key facts

• As of 2019, 96.5 per cent of the world's population is covered by at least a 2G mobile network.
• 16 per cent of the global population does not have access to mobile broadband networks
• Developing countries are investing more than developed economies in renewables. In 2019, they committed $152.2 billion, compared to $130 billion for developed countries

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