Green and digital transitions: towards a sustainable future | IGF 2023 WS #147

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Wildlife management is crucial for the sustainable future of Japan, particularly due to the significant crop and forest damages caused by shika deer and wild boars. In 2015, the Wildlife Protection Act was revised to reflect the country’s commitment to preserving its flora and fauna.

This demonstrates a positive sentiment towards wildlife management.

Furthermore, the implementation of ICT technologies has proven effective in monitoring wildlife. Drones are used to track habitats, while sensor systems help identify different animal species. These technological advancements provide accurate data and facilitate better management strategies.

The Japanese government has also introduced a certification system for wildlife capture programs.

This initiative aims to counter the decline in hunters and reduce the population of shika deer and wild boars. The government’s goal is to reduce the population to half of 2011 levels, and progress has been made in achieving this target.

However, collaboration between stakeholders in wildlife management is lacking.

Government officials, scientists, and private sectors often fail to work together effectively, hampering progress. To address this, bridging individuals or organizations are necessary to encourage cooperation and align goals.

The collaboration between the Ministry of Environment (MOE) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF) is vital for managing wildlife populations.

The MOE and MAFF have proposed and revised the Wildlife Protection Control and Hunting Management Act, setting common goals and creating guidelines at the country level. Prefectures are responsible for implementing practical programs.

Collaboration between the government and private sectors is essential for effective wildlife management.

While the MOE and MAFF provide high-level goals, private sectors play a key role in implementing programs in collaboration with prefectures.

The establishment of the digital ministry agency primarily focuses on human identification numbers rather than ICT implementation.

This highlights the need for collaboration between the government and private sectors to effectively implement ICT systems.

In conclusion, wildlife management is vital for Japan’s sustainable future. The revision of the Wildlife Protection Act, the use of ICT technologies, and the certification system for wildlife capture programs all contribute to positive efforts.

However, improving collaboration among stakeholders is crucial. Bridging individuals or organizations can facilitate cooperation, ensuring successful wildlife management and a sustainable future for Japan.

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Tarek Hassan, the head of the Digital Transformation Centre Vietnam, is interested in understanding inter-ministerial collaboration in Japan, specifically regarding biodiversity. He wants to gain insights into how different ministries work together and the division of labour among them to effectively address green initiatives.

Tarek believes that understanding the roles of these ministries will shed light on whether the digital experts lead the green initiatives or vice versa.

Collaboration between various ministries and levels of government is crucial for wildlife population control.

The Ministry of Environment (MOE) has proposed and revised the Wildlife Protection Control and Hunting Management Act. Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF) is responsible for agriculture and the National Forest. Collaboration is necessary due to overlapping issues, ensuring successful outcomes.

In certain domains, like wildlife capture control, there is collaboration between the government and the prefectures.

They work collaboratively on some aspects but independently on others. The country establishes basic guidelines and laws, while the prefectures handle practical program implementation. This two-tiered approach ensures shared responsibilities and effective governance.

Tarek is also interested in capacity building within ministries concerning digital transformation.

He is curious whether the digital capacity is built within the ministries themselves or if it is outsourced. Additionally, he wonders about the role of the digital ministry within the governance structure.

The establishment of a digital ministry within the cabinet is a significant development.

This agency primarily handles human number identification but is not heavily involved in the ICT techniques and technologies proposed by the private sector. Tarek is intrigued by the ICT techniques proposed by the private sector and their potential to contribute to achieving specific goals.

Tarek is curious about the quality of data used in the twin transition.

However, no specific evidence or arguments were mentioned in the text. It remains unclear how the data quality could impact the twin transition, but it indicates Tarek’s interest in ensuring the use of reliable and accurate information.

Overall, Tarek’s pursuit of knowledge regarding inter-ministerial collaboration, division of labour, capacity building, and data quality reflects his commitment to understanding Japan’s approach to biodiversity and digital transformation.

His goal is to gather insights that can inform his work at the Digital Transformation Centre Vietnam.

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During the analysis, several key points were highlighted by the speakers. The first point emphasised the fact that African leaders have taken the initiative to set their own regional priorities in response to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agenda. This demonstrates the commitment of African countries to align the SDGs with their specific needs and challenges.

One specific example that was mentioned is South Africa, which invests 50% of its annual research and development budget in collaboration with international partners.

This highlights the importance of international collaboration in achieving the SDGs, as South Africa recognises the value of leveraging external expertise and resources to drive progress.

Another interesting point discussed was the role of open access repositories in enhancing South Africa’s SDG hub.

Open access repositories facilitate the sharing of information and make open source academic journals available to a wider audience. This is crucial in effectively addressing the SDGs, as it promotes knowledge sharing, collaboration, and innovation.

The analysis also highlighted the significance of knowledge management in relation to the SDGs, particularly in terms of availability, accessibility, acceptability, and adaptability.

The effective management of knowledge plays a critical role in achieving the SDGs, as it ensures that the necessary information and resources are readily accessible to those working towards these goals. Furthermore, it was argued that relevant role players, including researchers, policymakers, and citizen scientists, are essential in solving global health problems.

This highlights the need for multi-stakeholder involvement and collaboration to tackle complex challenges.

Additionally, the government’s strategies and international collaborations were recognized as crucial factors in supporting the SDGs in South Africa. With 50% of its research and development investment coming from international partners, South Africa acknowledges the importance of working together to achieve these goals.

Furthermore, the existence of a Draft Open Science Policy in South Africa demonstrates the government’s commitment to fostering an environment conducive to open science and collaboration.

Overall, the analysis emphasised the importance of African leaders setting their own priorities within the SDGs agenda.

It also highlighted the critical role of open access repositories, knowledge management, relevant role players, government strategies, and international collaborations in achieving the SDGs in South Africa. These findings provide valuable insights and recommendations for policymakers, researchers, and various stakeholders involved in driving sustainable development.

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The analysis highlights the increasing complexity in managing data with the rise of urban digital twins. One of the key challenges identified is the lack of an international standard for the ontology of urban digital twins. This lack of standardisation makes it difficult to compare existing ontologies automatically.

In order to ensure coherence and conformity to legal, financial, and ethical boundaries, challenges in coherence analysis need to be addressed.

Furthermore, the analysis emphasises the need for novel mechanisms and models to handle the complexity associated with urban digital twins.

The emergence of more sophisticated digital representations of the urban sphere, known as digital twins, has led to the generation of massive data and active data streams from various sensors across cities. This has posed new challenges in data management.

The sentiment expressed in this regard is one of concern, as managing the increasing complexity of data becomes a daunting task.

Another aspect that requires urgent attention is the implementation of just-in-time demands in managing digital twin logistics.

Prompt implementation is necessary to ensure efficient management of digital logistics, and it is suggested that staging emergency drills and recording action plans will aid in meeting these demands. The sentiment expressed here is one of urgency, highlighting the importance of timely and effective implementation.

Regarding the handling of big data and complex data, it is noted that administrators are not well equipped in this area.

The lack of educational resources and training inhibits their ability to effectively handle such data. This is seen as a negative impact, as there is a clear need for administrators to adapt and acquire the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of big data.

In terms of governance, a framework is deemed essential to operationalise long-term systems for the service of citizens.

There is a positive sentiment towards the establishment of governance structures that ensure the smooth operation and maintenance of these systems. Additionally, there is an emphasis on the need for participative governance, involving not only the government but also citizens.

The involvement of multiple actors is seen as crucial in ensuring a democratic and inclusive decision-making process.

The complexity of the global commodity value chain is acknowledged, and it is argued that a holistic green transition is necessary to address this complexity.

This transition should encompass various topics such as food security and energy efficiency. The sentiment expressed here is positive, as the analysis recognises the importance of different professions joining together to guide the green transition. However, joining these ontologies presents a challenge, as it requires careful consideration of the purposes and consequences of data application.

Overall, the analysis sheds light on the complex nature of managing data in the context of urban digital twins.

It emphasises the need for standardisation, novel mechanisms, and effective governance frameworks. Additionally, it highlights the urgency of implementing just-in-time demands and the importance of equipping administrators with the necessary skills to handle big data. The analysis also emphasises the importance of a holistic approach to address the complexity of the global commodity value chain.

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In this analysis, several key points are highlighted regarding the importance of sustainability and digitalization, the urgency to rescue the sustainable development goals (SDGs), the significance of using digital technology to implement and rescue the SDGs, and the importance of interdisciplinary, intersectoral, and international cooperation.

The first point emphasizes the dual transitions of sustainability and digitalization as crucial for the future of humankind.

It is stated that these transitions are a historical process with great significance. Furthermore, it is asserted that digitalization serves as an essential tool in achieving sustainability.

The second point focuses on the urgency to rescue the SDGs.

It is revealed that over 30% of the SDG targets have not made any progress or have regressed below the baseline established in 2015. This lack of progress is exemplified through the projection that 575 million people will still be in extreme poverty by 2030.

These facts illustrate the need for immediate action to address and advance the SDGs.

The third point highlights the importance of using digital technology to implement and rescue the SDGs. It is highlighted that digital transformation is crucial in three specific areas: addressing hunger, transitioning to renewable energy, and leveraging digital transformation opportunities.

Examples are provided to support this argument, such as the use of big data in smart manufacturing, urban planning, and climate action. These examples demonstrate the potential of digital technology in achieving the SDGs.

The fourth and final point underscores the significance of interdisciplinary, intersectoral, and international cooperation.

It is emphasized that digital technology should work across disciplines without any borders. Platforms such as the China Association of Science and Technology (CAST) and The World Federation of Engineering Organizations are presented as facilitators of collaborations in this regard.

The importance of such cooperation is highlighted as essential for successful digital transformations.

In conclusion, the expanded summary reiterates the key points outlined in the analysis. It emphasizes the importance of the dual transitions of sustainability and digitalization, the urgent need to rescue the SDGs, the significance of using digital technology to implement and rescue the SDGs, and the importance of interdisciplinary, intersectoral, and international cooperation.

Through these points, it is evident that sustainability, digitalization, and collaboration are all crucial elements in advancing global goals and ensuring a better future for humankind.

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During the discussion, the speakers emphasized the significance of supporting repositories in South Africa and collaborating with various institutions such as universities, research councils, national facilities, and museums to promote open access. They recognized the need for effective coordination and cooperation to ensure the success of this strategy.

One of the key points raised was the importance of training librarians to index and categorize content that falls within the criteria of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This would enable easy access and retrieval of valuable information and research related to these goals. The speakers also highlighted the need to link this content with existing repositories to maximize its visibility and impact.

Moreover, the speakers discussed the use of DSPACE software by a majority of the organized universities in South Africa.

By adopting this software, universities can effectively manage their digital collections and make them accessible to a wider audience. They stressed the benefits of using a widely accepted and trusted platform for the efficient dissemination of knowledge.

Furthermore, the development of the South African SDG app was discussed as a means to gather collections within universities.

This app serves as a convenient tool to gather and showcase research and information specifically aligned with the SDGs. It provides a platform for researchers and institutions to contribute towards achieving the goals set by the SDGs and promotes open access to this valuable knowledge.

Overall, the speakers had a positive outlook on leveraging library experts and adhering to international best practices for open access in South Africa.

They recognized that by working collaboratively and adopting established practices, they can enhance the visibility and impact of research related to the SDGs. The emphasis on training librarians and the use of advanced software and technologies reflects a commitment to the efficient management and dissemination of knowledge.

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Less than half of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have been achieved, and progress has been hindered by natural disasters, climate change, and the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in small islands, mountainous areas, and critical ecosystems. These challenges have greatly impacted the advancement of the SDGs, which aim to address issues such as climate action, good health and well-being, and life on land.

To accelerate progress towards the SDGs, it is proposed that open science be embraced.

Open science involves the use of big data, the Internet of Things (IoT), and the inclusion of various fields such as engineering. By adopting these approaches, while ensuring systemic management and cultural diversity, it is believed that progress towards the SDGs can be accelerated.

Different organizations have their own ways of handling the SDGs, and a wide-ranging, reciprocal cooperation is being proposed among all partners to drive advancements.

In an effort to ensure trackable and high-quality agricultural products, China has launched the Global Institute for Environmental Science (GIES) and the World Data Center.

The GIES operates as a decadal programme from 2021 to 2030, and it has initiated 17 different cases in various regions of China in the past two years. This initiative aims to support the SDGs related to zero hunger and responsible consumption and production.

By establishing infrastructure like the World Data Center, China is taking steps to ensure the traceability and quality of agricultural products.

The GIES project has yielded several benefits, including increased income for farmers, high-quality products for consumers, and credit for contributors.

Over 600,000 local farmers have already benefited from the project, and the quality of the products can be traced to ensure consumer satisfaction. This demonstrates the positive impact that initiatives like GIES can have on achieving SDGs, particularly those related to poverty reduction and decent work and economic growth.

It is important to pay more attention to underprivileged individuals and developing nations, especially those in mountain areas, small islands, and rural villages.

These demographics are highly vulnerable and in need of assistance. By utilising technology, science, and commercial sectors to provide aid, it becomes possible to empower and uplift these underprivileged communities. The role that these sectors can play in addressing SDGs related to poverty reduction and reduced inequalities is stressed.

Identifying trustable data for research and business purposes is a challenging task since data comes from various sources, including government, private sectors, and university research sectors.

Different policies define how data is opened for use, making it essential to establish standards for data quality and reliability.

The World Data System, which consists of 86 world data centres, provides peer-reviewed data to address this challenge. This global collaboration, under the International Science Council, ensures that data undergoes checks for data security, data quality, and authorship.

By providing peer-reviewed data, the World Data System supports the SDGs related to industry, innovation, and infrastructure, as well as partnerships for the goals.

To ensure the accuracy and reliability of data, it is recommended to adopt meticulous processes for data validation and curation.

This involves reviewing data quality with the help of experts and capturing information about the data source and production method. By implementing such practices, it becomes possible to address challenges related to data quality and trustworthiness, thus advancing the goals of SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.

In the realm of data handling, protecting the original authors and ensuring data security are of paramount importance.

Proper data handling protocols are observed to uphold privacy and security. Adhering to these protocols allows for the responsible use of data and preserves the rights of authors, aligning with SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

In conclusion, the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 requires significant progress, as less than half of the goals have been achieved to date.

Natural disasters, climate change, and the COVID-19 pandemic have impeded progress, particularly in vulnerable regions. However, embracing open science, leveraging technology and collaboration, and ensuring the quality and reliability of data are potential pathways to accelerate progress towards the SDGs.

Initiatives like the Global Institute for Environmental Science (GIES) and the World Data System in China demonstrate the commitment to ensuring high-quality agricultural products and traceable data. By prioritising underprivileged individuals and developing nations and utilising technology and scientific advancements, it is possible to provide aid and address inequality.

The challenges of identifying trustworthy data can be met through meticulous processes of validation and curation, while upholding data protection and security protocols. Overall, a multi-faceted approach is needed to achieve the SDGs and create a sustainable and equitable future.

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The analysis reveals that Andrej Khrushchev has raised an intriguing question about the role of technology in supporting the green transition, particularly regarding security and energy efficiency. This inquiry suggests that technology has the potential to play a crucial role in achieving environmental sustainability goals.

It is noted that the global commodity value chain adds complexity to the task of implementing green technologies.

This complex network involves the production, distribution, and consumption of commodities across the globe. Understanding and optimizing this intricate system is necessary to ensure that technology adoption does not inadvertently harm the environment or compromise security measures.

The sentiment of the argument is considered neutral, indicating an objective discussion that invites further exploration and analysis of the topic.

The related topics of the argument encompass the Green Transition, Technology, Security, and Energy Efficiency.

These subjects are closely intertwined and interdependent, as advancements in technology can significantly impact the transition towards a more sustainable and secure future.

Furthermore, the argument aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action).

These global goals highlight the importance of renewable energy sources, energy efficiency improvements, and climate mitigation strategies. The question raised by Khrushchev emphasizes the role of technology in advancing these goals and promoting a sustainable future.

In conclusion, the analysis indicates that the question posed by Andrej Khrushchev emphasizes the potential of technology in supporting the green transition, especially regarding security and energy efficiency.

Navigating the complexity of the global commodity value chain is crucial to ensure the responsible adoption of technology. The argument maintains a neutral stance, prompting further investigation and exploration. This topic aligns with Sustainable Development Goals 7 and 13, underscoring the significance of technology in achieving a more sustainable and secure future.

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The speakers in the analysis highlighted several key points regarding sustainable development and the role of technology and collaboration in achieving sustainability goals.

One of the main points emphasized was the potential of big data and artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing the efficiency and reliability of renewable energy sources.

Through the analysis of big data and the implementation of autonomous decision-making, AI can revolutionize the generation and management of renewable energy. This can contribute significantly to SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy and SDG 13: Climate Action. The speakers provided supporting facts that demonstrated how AI and big data can improve the efficiency of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind.

Another important aspect raised in the analysis was the harmonisation of regulation and policies around digital technology and environmental sustainability.

The speakers argued that this harmonisation is crucial and presents a significant challenge. They stated that it is important to consider specific technological aspects that have applications in the environment. By aligning regulations and policies, authorities can foster an environment that promotes the use of digital technology for sustainable development.

This alignment may contribute to SDG 13: Climate Action and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Collaboration between authorities and various stakeholders was emphasised as vital for achieving sustainability goals. The speakers stressed that authorities should work closely with private business corporations, civil society, and academia at both national and international levels.

This collaboration is necessary to address the challenges and complexities associated with sustainable development. They argued that by involving multiple stakeholders, authorities can ensure more effective and comprehensive efforts towards achieving sustainability goals. This close collaboration aligns with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

The analysis also highlighted upcoming challenges in the pursuit of sustainability.

These challenges include the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, ensuring social justice, and promoting clean technologies. The speakers emphasised that more clean technologies and sustainable practices need to be adopted to combat climate change. Additionally, they highlighted the importance of ensuring social justice in the transition, particularly through training and skills development.

By addressing these challenges, authorities can make significant progress towards achieving SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities and SDG 13: Climate Action.

Furthermore, the analysis suggests that authorities should actively participate in international forums such as the Internet Governance Forum (IGF). The speakers acknowledged that Mexican parliamentarians attended the IGF in Kyoto, highlighting the significance of active involvement in these forums.

By participating in international forums, authorities can have a voice in shaping global policies and development strategies, aligning with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Lastly, the creation and promotion of laws were emphasised as important for achieving digital and green transitions for sustainable development.

The speakers argued that laws play a crucial role in driving the adoption and implementation of these transitions. They emphasised the need for laws to incentivise and regulate sustainable development practices. By creating and promoting such laws, authorities can facilitate the transition to more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.

Overall, the analysis underscores the significance of big data, AI, collaboration, regulation, and laws in achieving sustainable development goals.

The adoption of these technologies, collaboration between stakeholders, harmonisation of policies, and the creation of supportive laws are all essential for advancing sustainability efforts and addressing various challenges. By focusing on these aspects, authorities can pave the way for a more sustainable future.

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The workshop commenced with a series of presentations from six speakers, each focusing on different aspects of the green and digital transition. Professor Liu, the director of global change research, led the session by emphasising the significance of open science in driving sustainable development.

She highlighted the need for transparent and collaborative research practices to address urgent environmental challenges.

Following Professor Liu’s presentation, Ms. Tomoko Doko, the President and CEO of Leisure and Science Consulting Limited Company, discussed wildlife management in Japan for a sustainable future.

She showcased innovative approaches taken in Japan to protect and conserve biodiversity. Ms. Doko stressed the importance of a holistic and integrated approach involving all stakeholders to ensure effective wildlife management.

Mr. Kremers from Codata, Germany, then shared insights on the practical implementation of digital twins.

He explored the role of digital twins in managing complexity, including process models and workflow standards. Mr. Kremers highlighted how digital twins enhance decision-making processes and optimise resource allocation in various sectors.

Next, Professor Ricardo from Mexico presented the challenges and commitments in digital technology and a sustainable environment as outlined in the United States-Mexico-Canada agreement.

He emphasised the importance of aligning digital innovation with sustainable development goals and highlighted potential benefits and risks associated with the digital transition.

After the presentations, a discussion session provided an opportunity for participants to ask questions and provide comments to the speakers.

The workshop facilitator posed three key questions focusing on government issues, stakeholder cooperation, and policy frameworks. Each speaker addressed one or more of these questions.

Professor Liu shared insights on the key challenges faced by governments in driving sustainable development, emphasising the role of political will and effective governance structures.

Professor Ricardo stressed the need for enhanced collaboration and partnership among multiple stakeholders to address complex environmental issues. Ms. Tomoko focused on the role of policy frameworks in guiding wildlife management strategies and the importance of regulations for their effective implementation.

Mr. Kremers discussed the potential of policy guidelines in promoting the adoption of digital twins and ensuring their compatibility across different sectors.

The workshop concluded with expressions of gratitude to the speakers, on-site and online participants, and the organisers.

The facilitator acknowledged the thought-provoking presentations and insightful questions from the participants. Time constraints prevented a detailed discussion of all topics, highlighting the need for future collaborations and continued efforts to achieve a sustainable future.

Attendees were invited to gather for a group photo, fostering connections and setting the stage for potential future engagements.

The facilitator expressed special appreciation to Professor Liu Chuang for their ongoing partnership and work in this field. Overall, the workshop provided a valuable platform for knowledge sharing and networking among experts, contributing to ongoing discussions on green and digital transition.