Last week marked United Nations (UN) Day, a moment to reflect on the 79 years since the formation of the global organization, created with the hope of preventing future wars like World War II.

In his proclamation to mark the occasion, U.S. President Joe Biden said: “Let us continue to work together to unleash the power of humanity and … let us prove that we can build a better world together.”

Adopted in 2015, the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) sought to advance the promise of the UN by tackling global threats, including climate change. 

UN Sustainable Development Goals: How Can Tech and Innovation Help Achieve Them? 

The 2024 progress report on the UN SDGs paints a dire picture. 

• Only 17% of targets are on track for 2030. The rest show limited progress—or have gone backward. 

• Key goals, such as Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Sustainable Cities (SDG 11), Life Below Water (SDG 14), and Life on Land (SDG 15), are significantly off track. 

• Press freedom, biodiversity conservation, and life expectancy have regressed since 2015. 

Achieving the SDGs by 2030 appears unlikely without accelerated action and greater international collaboration—especially in technology and innovation.

Priority Actions and the Role of Technology in Public and Private Partnerships

Tech optimists believe private industry can contribute to the UN’s focus areas, including the climate transition and infrastructure development. Many argue that better storytelling can help build momentum.

Climate Transition

Private sector leaders are accelerating the climate transition. The Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders, which represents companies with $4 trillion in revenue, targets ambitious emissions reductions and green energy transitions. Many companies, including those within the World Economic Forum's First Movers Coalition, are pushing for stronger policies and public-private partnerships. Why? They argue it’s the key to scaling sustainable investments and phasing out fossil fuel subsidies.

Infrastructure Development

By fostering public-private partnerships, governments can rapidly expand sustainable infrastructure projects focused on renewable energy and climate-resilient urban development. Digital connectivity is also crucial to create more inclusive economic opportunities, especially in developing regions. There are myriad more opportunities for companies to drive progress.

Additional Perspectives

• The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals: Can they be made smarter? 

• How consumer companies can help us achieve the UN’s SDGs

• Gen Z is shaping sustainable manufacturing.

79 years after the UN’s creation, the world has avoided another world war but continues to face vexing challenges as outlined in the UN SDGs. 

Technology and innovation can get these ambitious goals back on track—especially with public and private partnerships. Better storytelling can highlight how science and tech deliver real-world solutions.