A SMARTer Revolution: How Tech Solutions Can Tackle 21st Century Challenges

Perhaps the most important societal benefit Information and Communication Technology (ICT) can bring to the world is empowerment. This is one of the key messages in a report released today by the Global e-Sustainability Initiative (GeSI). The report, entitled #SMARTer2030: ICT Solutions to 21^st Century Challenges, builds upon their previous work and examines the significant positive impact ICT can have on society, the economy and the environment. The research recognizes that key developments such as increased access, more compelling service offerings and the emergence of the Internet of Things, have converged to create an exciting environment where users are at the center of what the report calls “nothing short of a revolution.”

This revolution can come in the form of a student or employee who can pursue lifelong learning through smart technology or a patient who can receive diagnosis through a ‘doctor in their pockets’ while trusting that their data is secure and their plan responsive and personalized.

Some of the key findings of the report demonstrate that through smarter application of ICT:

• The global economy could generate at least $11 trillion of additional economic opportunity by 2030 without adding to resource or climate footprints
• 1.6 billion people can have access to E-healthcare and half a billion can have access to E-learning solutions
• 2.5 billion more people will be connected to ICT and thereby get access to the benefits ICT can deliver

The report suggests that in the new connected world, eight sectors will benefit the most. These range from Energy and Health to Learning and Logistics. In the coming months we will be exploring the eight sectors in greater detail. In the meantime, I encourage you to download the full report at http://smarter2030.gesi.org.