The role of science in achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) cannot be overstated. Science, technology, and innovation are instrumental to addressing the significant challenges encompassed within the 17 SDGs, ranging from poverty and inequality to climate change and biodiversity loss.
Science underpins our understanding of the challenges our world faces and is pivotal in SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and 15 (Life on Land), where understanding ecosystems, environmental degradation, and climate change is paramount. Research in the Earth and environmental sciences provides us with knowledge about the severity of these issues and potential mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Furthermore, in SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), science in the form of medical research and biotechnology contributes to the development of treatments and preventive measures for various diseases. Vaccines, therapeutic drugs, and disease prevention techniques have been made possible due to advancements in biological and health sciences.
Moreover, technological advancements and innovative solutions, often rooted in science, are essential to achieving SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). From developing renewable energy technologies to creating systems that enhance water and sanitation accessibility, science serves as the bedrock of these innovations.
Science also plays a critical role in SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by improving agricultural methods, crop yields, and food storage. Through genetic engineering and modern farming techniques, scientists can help increase food security and reduce world hunger.
Finally, science is integral to SDG 4 (Quality Education). A well-rounded education should include a robust scientific curriculum that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and a deep understanding of the world. Furthermore, by promoting scientific literacy, societies are better equipped to make informed decisions about policies and practices that affect sustainable development.
To make strides in achieving the SDGs, the scientific community, policymakers, and society must work together. The integration of science into policy-making processes is fundamental in developing and implementing sustainable and impactful strategies that move us closer to accomplishing these ambitious yet achievable goals.
The RELX SDG Inspiration Day 2025 focuses on the role of philanthropy in bridging the funding gap to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals, featuring insights from prominent thought leaders. To commemorate this event, Elsevier has curated a free Special Collection with the latest research on philanthropy and the SDGs.
22nd April is Earth Day, an annual, global movement to raise awareness and promote environmental protection. The theme for Earth Day 2025 is OUR POWER, OUR PLANET, inviting everyone around the globe to unite behind renewable energy, and to triple the global generation of clean electricity by 2030. To mark the event Elsevier has curated a free to access Special Collection featuring the latest research articles and book chapters to advance knowledge.
iScience, Volume 28, Issue 5, 16 May 2025, 112303
Public attitudes were assessed toward six strategies for ecological resoration and geo-engineering, with the public strongly preferring nature based solutions like reforestation.
María F. Manobanda-Lisintuña, Cristina A. Villamar-Ayala,
Carbon and water footprints within an environmental laboratory: Water, energy, and packaging management strategies,
Green Analytical Chemistry,
Volume 13,
2025,
100243,
ISSN 2772-5774,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.greeac.2025.100243.
Also in laboratories we should be critical about the amount of water, energy, and resources used. There is room for increasing efficiency and better mangement there as well. The objective of this study is to evaluate the carbon and water footprints present in an environmental laboratory..
