Yesterday I introduced the first five sustainable development goals (SDGs) designed by UN member states in 2015. Now come with me as I dive into the following six.
6. Clean water and sanitation
Water scarcity affects more than 40% of the world’s population. This goal aims to ensure water and sanitation are available and sustainably managed for all.
What can you do?
- Save water at home by fixing leaky taps
- Swap your power shower for an ordinary one
- Turn off the tap while you clean your teeth
- Swap your bath for a shower
7. Affordable and clean energy
Did you know that three million people still lack clean cooking fuels and technologies? This goal is designed to help everyone get access to affordable, reliable and sustainable energy.
What can you do?
- Choose a green energy supplier
- Switch off all items in your house that are on standby
- Turn off the lights when you’re not using them
- Hang your clothes out to dry on sunny days instead of using the tumble dryer
- Insulate your home and get double glazed windows
8. Decent work and economic growth
Billions of people are living in poverty and many more face harsh working conditions. The UN wants to promote job creation and eradicate forced labour, modern slavery and child labour.
What can you do?
- Do your research and don’t support companies relying on child or slave labour
- Support independent businesses
- Get to know your local producers
9. Industry, innovation and infrastructure
Roads, water, sanitation and electricity are scarce in many developing countries. This goal aims to build resilient infrastructures, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialisation and foster innovation around the world.
What can you do?
- If you work for a company, encourage management to invest in a clean and resilient infrastructure
- Support a Goal 9 charity
- Support construction and innovation that benefits people and protects the planet
10. Reduced inequalities
Did you know the poorest 40% of the world’s population earns less than 25% of global income? That’s why SDG 10 aims to reduce inequality within and among countries.
What can you do?
- Educate yourself about inequality
- Support activists and leaders who fight for equality and protect vulnerable people
11. Sustainable cities and communities
Nine out of ten urban residents breathe polluted air. This goal aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.
What can you do?
- Learn about local council plans and take part in decisions if you’re in a position to do so
- Get to know your local community
- Protect the wildlife and natural areas around you
Check out article three in this series for the final six SDGs and tips on what you can do to support them.