Industry, innovation, infrastructure

Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation

Sustained 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, and as a consequence foster innovation and entrepreneurship.


8
targets

12
indicators

18
providers

SDG 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation

Facts and Figures

2.3 billion

Worldwide, 2.3 billion people lack access to basic sanitation.

40%

In some low-income African countries, infrastructure constraints cut businesses’ productivity by around 40 percent.

2.6 billion

2.6 billion people in developing countries do not have access to constant electricity.

90%

More than 4 billion people still do not have access to the Internet; 90 percent of them are in the developing world.

2.3 million

The renewable energy sectors currently employ more than 2.3 million people; the number could reach 20 million by 2030.

30%

In developing countries, barely 30 percent of agricultural products undergo industrial processing, compared to 98 percent high-income countries.