Environmental Technology and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a tool for reducing economic inequality: Review of strategic policies

Global Summit on Environmental Health

August 01, 2023 | Webinar

Santosh Kumar Mishra

S. N. D. T. Womenâ??s University, India

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Environ Hazard

Abstract :

The sustainable development goals (SDGs) are global in nature and universally applicable, taking into account different national realities. The author of this work argues that environmental technology (ET) can be used as tool for meeting SDGs in timely manner. This is because of the fact that the global community, today, is looking at ET as a class of electronic devices that can promote sustainable management of resources, an aspect which is vital for ensuring ‘sustainable’ & ‘green’ planet, for all, at all times. It is pertinent to note that information and communication technologies (ICTs) can help accelerate progress towards each of the 17 UN (United Nations)-supported SDGs. Also, both the ET and the SDGs can be used as a tool for the purpose of reducing economic inequality. Also, the author, very specifically and categorically, makes a statement that the initiatives aimed at meeting SDGs + rational and responsible use of ET can facilitate meeting twin objectives of (a) “reducing inequalities”, and (b) “ensuring that no one on the planet is left behind is integral to achieving the SDGs”. Most importantly, economic inequality, in particular, within and among countries (continents) is a persistent cause for concern for many 2 nations. In this context, it is pertinent to note that economic inequality, in recent years, has soared to unprecedented levels. This phenomenon has resulted in (a) hampering poverty reduction, in particular; and (b) presenting new threats to the full spectrum of human rights, in general. In this context, the author of this research further argues that appropriately designed policies aimed fostering the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (AGD),accompanied by ET has the potential to favourably influence initiatives aimed at reducing economic inequality. However, meeting the goal of economic inequality reduction, at all times and everywhere, will require, among other contributing factors, responses and deliverables that are based on “urgently-needed paradigm shift”. The author is of the considered view that required developmental efforts need to be geared towards meeting all SDGs, in a broader perspective, in timely and meaningful manner. But the pertinent question needing answer is: “what is the framework (or mechanism) that can facilitate reducing economic inequality by meeting SDGs with the use of ET?” This research work primarily aims to answer this question. Also, the author, in this work, attempts to outline why reducing economic inequality must be a priority. In terms of research methodology, secondary data (largely qualitative in nature) have been used in this paper, and nature of data analysis is descriptive, involving “desk-based research”. Data have been collected from sources, such as government publications, journal articles, books, and book chapters (quoted under reference section of the work). In conclusion, the author of this research says that ensuring ‘designing’, ‘prioritizing’, and ‘implementation’ of macro and micro level sustainable development (SD) plans and use of ET strategies that are in line with meeting overall SDGs (as defined by the United Nations [UN]) are key to reduction of economic inequalities, across the regions and continents of the globe. In addition, ensuring ‘sufficient’, ‘equitable’, and ‘sustainable’ financing for the SDGs through progressive fiscal policies is of utmost significance.

Biography :

Santosh Kumar Mishra Was retired on June 30, 2020 from the Population Education Resource Centre (PERC), Department of Lifelong Learning & Extension [DLLE, previously known as Department of Continuing & Adult Education & Extension Work (DCAEEW)], S.N.D.T. Women's University (SNDTWU), Mumbai, India. Santosh Kumar Mishra underwent training in demography, with award of Government of India Fellowship, during 1986-1987 from the IIPS, Mumbai, India. Also, Santosh Kumar Mishra acquired Ph. D. from University of Patna in 1999. My other qualifications include (a) Post-Master’s Diploma in Adult & Continuing Education, (b) Certificate Course on Hospital and Health Care Management, (c) Diploma in Human Resource Development, & (d) I have authored (some co-authored) (a) 5 booklets (including teaching-learning materials: published by PERC, DLLE, SNDTWU); (b) 4 books; (c) 23 book chapters; (d) 81 journal articles; (e) 2 monographs; (f) 7 research studies (published by the DLLE, SNDTWU); & (g) 56 papers for national & international conferences (some with bursary/travel grant).