Charting an inclusive path for digitalisation and a green transition for all

Knowledge Graph of Debate

Session report

Audience

The discussion covered several key topics related to technology transition and its impact on climate change, government regulation, digital solutions, and environmental sustainability.

One audience member expressed concern about the slow adoption of technological standards and its potential impact on global warming. They highlighted that it took 15 years to agree on the USB-C standard, underscoring the need for a faster adoption process to effectively address climate change. This negative sentiment emphasizes the urgency of speeding up technological standardization to mitigate global warming.

Another speaker highlighted the effectiveness of government regulation in driving the adoption of tech standards. They gave the example of the European Union’s requirement for Apple to adopt the USB-C standard, illustrating how government intervention can play a crucial role in shaping industry practices. This positive argument suggests that government regulations can facilitate the implementation of technological standards and promote a more consistent and efficient transition to newer technologies.

The discussion also addressed the environmental costs associated with digital solutions. While digital technologies offer numerous benefits, it is important to acknowledge and mitigate their environmental impacts. The speakers emphasized the importance of a “twin transition” approach, which involves a balanced focus on both digitalization and environmental impact. This approach aims to mitigate the negative consequences of digital solutions and ensure sustainable practices. The sentiment here is neutral, recognizing the need for environmental consciousness while leveraging digital technologies.

Lastly, the speakers stressed the significance of minimizing environmental impact in developing countries undergoing digitalization. They acknowledged that developing nations are increasingly embracing digitalization, but environmental considerations should not be overlooked in this process. The audience agreed that measures should be taken to minimize the environmental impact of digitalization in these regions. This neutral standpoint highlights the importance of achieving a balance between technological advancement and sustainable practices.

Overall, the discussion provided valuable insights into the need for swift adoption of technological standards to address climate change, the role of government regulation in driving tech standardization, the environmental costs associated with digital solutions, and the importance of minimizing environmental impact during digitalization in developing countries. The arguments and evidence presented shed light on the complex relationship between technology transition and environmental sustainability.

Richard Niwenshuti

The analysis highlights the crucial role of digital tools in policy making and trade. It emphasizes that relying on the strength and capacities of digital tools is essential for making the right policy decisions. Digital tools provide policymakers with access to vast amounts of data, enabling them to analyze trends, assess impacts, and develop evidence-based strategies. This supports the argument for the usage of digital tools and data for policy decisions, which aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

In the context of trade, the analysis underscores the importance of speed. It states that in trade, time is cost. The faster the trade process, the more efficient and cost-effective it becomes. Digital tools enable businesses to streamline their operations, automate processes, and reduce time-consuming paperwork. This highlights the significance of speed in trade, which is crucial for achieving SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.

Furthermore, the analysis also emphasizes the alignment of digital trade with sustainable solutions. It highlights that digital trade minimizes the footprints of production. By digitizing trade processes, companies can reduce their reliance on physical resources, leading to lower carbon emissions and environmental impact. This supports the argument that digital trade can contribute to achieving SDG 13: Climate Action.

The analysis recognizes that different countries are at different levels of digital transition, including within Africa. It cites the example of Rwanda, which has made significant investments in digital infrastructure and serves as a pathway for other African countries. The argument is made that investments in digital transitions should be prioritized in Africa to avail the benefits of wider market opportunities and digital trade. There is a need for digital payments integration and digital skills development for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Africa. Additionally, there is a desire to integrate digital tools in production chains to boost productivity, supporting SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

In terms of trade, the analysis emphasizes the need to invest in technologies that optimize production before focusing on trade. It states that low production levels globally have attributed to the growth in food prices. Digitization can help optimize agricultural processes, leading to better pricing and increased food production, contributing to achieving SDG 2: Zero Hunger.

The analysis highlights that digital tools play a key role in trading high-value products in mature markets. It cites Rwanda’s efforts to target high-value markets that require digital precision. Digital tools help maintain the standards and criteria necessary for entering these mature markets, supporting SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

In terms of policy development, the analysis acknowledges the varying levels of transition and capabilities between countries. It suggests that negotiations on digital trade policy should take into account these differences to ensure that policies are suitable for countries at different stages of digital transition. This underlines the need for more policy instruments and support to facilitate the transition for countries that are lagging behind in digital trade, contributing to SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

The analysis also recognizes the importance of combating e-waste and promoting responsible consumption and production. It highlights the implementation of state-of-the-art e-waste facilities in Rwanda, where electronic materials are renewed, and hazardous materials are safely handled. This showcases the commitment to responsible consumption and production practices, supporting SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

Regarding climate control, the analysis states that multi-sector interventions are necessary. It mentions Rwanda’s goal of reducing carbon emissions by 38 percent by 2035 and its transition to electronic mobility. This highlights the need for collaboration, partnerships, and complementarity in achieving digital transition and climate resilience solutions, aligning with SDG 13: Climate Action and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

In terms of trade standards, the analysis acknowledges that trade now relies on meeting certain voluntary metrics. This highlights the growing importance of standards in trade and the need for businesses to meet these metrics to ensure fair and sustainable trade practices, contributing to SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities.

Overall, the analysis highlights the significance of digital tools in policy making and trade, the need for investments in digital transitions, particularly in Africa, and the alignment of digital trade with sustainable solutions. It emphasizes the importance of considering different levels of transition and capabilities in digital trade policy negotiations. It also stresses the need for responsible consumption and production practices, multi-sector interventions for climate control, and adherence to trade standards in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

Emma Sävenborg

The analysis highlights several key arguments related to trade policy and its impact on sustainability. One of the main arguments is the necessity for trade policy to be based on evidence and correct data. Emma, a senior advisor for digital trade and services at the National Board of Trade, emphasizes the importance of accurate and reliable data in making informed decisions about emissions and trade. Without the right data, it is impossible to fully understand the emissions being released and the potential environmental consequences of trade activities. Therefore, trade policy should rely on accurate data to address sustainability goals effectively.

Another key argument is the role of trade policy in achieving sustainable standards. Trade can encourage innovation and the spread of technical know-how, which are essential for driving sustainable development. By promoting trade, solutions to environmental challenges can be widely disseminated and implemented, leading to more impactful results. Lowering tariffs on environmental goods is also highlighted as a means to make these goods more accessible and encourage their use, promoting sustainability.

Balancing intellectual property (IP) rights and technology transfer is also crucial for achieving green transition. the right balance can facilitate the dissemination of green technologies, allowing for the successful adoption and implementation of sustainable practices. Trade agreements can leverage best practices and discourage environmentally harmful practices by including provisions that encourage sustainability and discourage harmful practices.

The analysis also emphasizes the need to expand digital trade negotiations and include more countries, particularly developing ones. Currently, many African countries have yet to negotiate their digital trade agreements due to limited bureaucratic capacity. Additionally, countries with smaller delegations face challenges in engaging in Joint Statement Initiatives due to demanding processes. By broadening the conversation and creating incentives for more countries to participate, especially developing ones, a more inclusive and comprehensive digital trade framework can be established.

Another important point raised in the analysis is the need to acknowledge and address different levels of readiness, priorities, and perspectives in digital trade. The perception of what digital trade entails depends on a country’s level of digital maturity. It is crucial to recognize that different countries may prioritize different issues in digital trade based on their specific circumstances and needs. By acknowledging and accommodating these differences, a more balanced and effective approach to digital trade can be achieved.

The analysis also underlines the importance of providing support and assistance to countries in participating in digital trade. Currently, only a small percentage of aid for trade funds are allocated to digital, which is deemed insufficient. To ensure that developing countries are not left behind in the digital trade sphere, specific capacity-supporting mechanisms need to be incorporated into all types of negotiations.

Furthermore, the analysis highlights the establishment of a green digital action track, with industry leaders discussing and working on an action plan to map out green standards. This signifies a commitment to implementing agreed-upon green standards within the digital trade sector. However, the analysis does not provide information on how policymakers can accelerate the implementation of these standards, leaving this question unanswered.

Finally, Emma Sävenborg’s perspective is notable in the analysis. She advocates for more inclusion of environmental issues in digital trade discussions and expresses a commitment to introducing more green elements into the sphere of digital trade in the longer term. Her insights highlight the need to consider environmental considerations in all aspects of trade, including digital trade, and work towards a more sustainable future.

In conclusion, the analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the various arguments and perspectives related to trade policy and sustainability. It emphasizes the importance of basing trade policy on evidence and correct data, promoting sustainable standards through trade, and finding a balance between IP rights and technology transfer. The need for inclusive digital trade negotiations and support for developing countries in digital trade are also underscored. The establishment of a green digital action track and Emma Sävenborg’s commitment to environmental considerations in digital trade further contribute to the discussion. Overall, the analysis highlights the potential of trade policy to promote sustainability and the importance of incorporating environmental concerns into trade discussions and decision-making processes.

Robin Michelle Zuercher

The analysis of the given statements highlights several significant points related to the relationship between green and digital transformation, the importance of connectivity, the impact of the ICT industry, the role of standards, and the need for collaboration.

Firstly, there is a consensus among the speakers that green and digital transformation should work hand in hand. Digitalisation is seen as having key opportunities in climate, trade, and the circular economy. This implies that incorporating sustainable digital practices can contribute to achieving environmental goals and promoting economic growth simultaneously.

Connectivity is emphasised as a crucial factor for ensuring inclusivity in the digital age. It is stated that 2.6 billion people do not have access to the internet, and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is mandated to work towards achieving universal connectivity. This indicates that providing internet access to all communities, especially the most difficult to connect, is seen as essential for bridging the digital divide and reducing inequalities.

However, it is acknowledged that the growing ICT industry has negative implications. The sector’s greenhouse gas emissions are on the rise, and significant amounts of e-waste are being generated. Estimates suggest that e-waste could reach 110 million metric tons by 2050. The growing amount of e-waste and greenhouse gas emissions indicate that sustainable practices need to be implemented in the ICT industry to mitigate its environmental impact.

To address these challenges, speakers highlight the importance of moving towards a circular economy and adopting sustainable practices. The ITU is actively involved in developing guidelines and capacity building tools for green data centers, assisting developing countries with e-waste regulation, and working on international standards for circular design and digital product passports. These initiatives aim to promote a circular economy and reduce the environmental impact of ICT-related activities.

Collaboration and inclusivity are consistently emphasized as crucial for sustainable digital development. The ITU’s diverse membership is highlighted as an asset in ensuring inclusivity in the standard-setting process. The ITU is also leading a collaborative initiative for green digital action at COP28, demonstrating the commitment to fostering collaboration among stakeholders.

Standards play a crucial role in building transparent and equitable markets, as they provide a level playing field for all participants. Speakers point out that standards are behind common tasks such as making phone calls or listening to music, highlighting their pervasive influence. Regulators and policymakers are encouraged to incorporate standards when forming policies to enable sustainable and circular procurement of ICTs and influence supply chain formation.

The trade perspective is recognized as significant in the green and digital agenda. Speakers emphasize the need for collaboration between the trade community and the standardization process. This suggests that involving various communities, such as trade and environment, can enhance the process of standards development and ensure a holistic approach.

In conclusion, the analysis reveals the importance of integrating green and digital transformation, ensuring connectivity for inclusivity, addressing the negative impact of the ICT industry, promoting sustainable practices and a circular economy, fostering collaboration and inclusivity in the standardization process, and considering the trade perspective. These insights provide valuable considerations for policymakers, regulators, and stakeholders involved in the sustainable development of digital technologies.

Reina Otsuka

In this analysis, the speakers delve into the potential benefits and challenges of digital technology in addressing environmental issues and promoting sustainable development. They highlight the idea that digital technology can allow countries to bypass outdated environmental management and traceability methods and take a giant leap forward. By embracing digital solutions, nations can revolutionize the way they manage their environment and ensure greater resilience in the face of challenges.

The speakers also emphasize that digital transformation has the power to revolutionise the socioeconomic system. With digitalisation, operations can become ten times faster, more efficient, and scalable. This can have a profound impact on economic growth and create opportunities for innovation and development. The potential for digital technology to drive socioeconomic progress is vast and can lead to significant advancements in various sectors.

Another key point highlighted in the analysis is the role of digital technology in climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies. For instance, smart agriculture and energy efficiency are examples of digital applications that can contribute to mitigating climate change. Real-time data obtained through digital technology is essential for early warning systems and risk-informed planning in adaptation strategies. By leveraging digital solutions, countries can enhance their efforts to combat climate change and build resilience in the face of its impacts.

However, the speakers caution that the green transition should not leave behind those who are most affected by climate change. While digital technologies bring numerous benefits, it is important to ensure inclusivity and consider the needs of marginalised communities. Many people, especially those in developing countries, still lack access to the internet, which hampers their ability to benefit from digital advancements. Therefore, the green transition should be integrated with the digital transition to ensure that all sectors of society can reap the benefits and address environmental challenges effectively.

Access to finance for green initiatives is another area where digital technology can play a significant role. Digital solutions can facilitate data-based trust in carbon markets and support payment for ecosystem service (PES) schemes. These schemes compensate custodians of ecosystems for their efforts in preserving the environment. By leveraging digital technology, countries can improve financial mechanisms and support the transition towards a greener economy.

The analysis also emphasises the importance of open data and data sharing policies to eliminate duplication of efforts. It highlights the need for a digital infrastructure that promotes innovative solutions and collaboration. By sharing data openly, companies and organisations can avoid unnecessary duplication of data collection efforts, improving efficiency and fostering innovation.

Additionally, the speakers stress the need to build digital technology as an ecosystem that involves various stakeholders such as governments, the private sector, academic partners, local communities, and even citizen science. For digital technology to be adopted successfully and sustainably, it needs to be a collaborative effort. They provide examples of successful engagements, such as the partnership between the Rwanda ICT Chamber of Commerce and a village community to develop business models for supporting a cold chain. This case study illustrates the concept of a digital ecosystem in practice and highlights the benefits of involving multiple stakeholders in the adoption of digital technology.

The analysis also touches upon several environmental issues associated with the digital transition. For instance, e-waste management and the environmental impact of server centres are significant concerns. The speakers suggest that these issues should be addressed to ensure a sustainable digital transition. Furthermore, the extraction of minerals for digital technology is deemed a hidden but significant issue that must be reckoned with in the pursuit of sustainable development.

When discussing national digital strategies, the speakers stress the importance of considering both environmental and social aspects. Safeguards related to these issues should be implemented from the inception of a digital strategy to ensure that it aligns with sustainable development principles. They cite the ongoing digital readiness assessment in Tanzania as an example of the need to consider environmental and social factors in digital strategies.

Lastly, the speakers acknowledge that addressing environmental and digital issues requires partnerships and a holistic approach. They advocate for various ministries, such as trade, environment, and digital, to work together and collaborate on solutions. The Coalition for Digital Environmental Sustainability is highlighted as a platform that aims to foster such partnerships and encourage diverse discussions on these critical topics.

In conclusion, the speakers in this analysis shed light on the potential benefits and challenges of digital technology in addressing environmental issues and promoting sustainable development. They highlight the need to integrate digital and green transitions, ensure inclusivity, manage e-waste and server centre emissions, address mineral extraction concerns, and consider social and environmental safeguards in national digital strategies. Partnerships and a holistic approach are seen as crucial for managing the complex intersection between digital and environmental sustainability. By embracing these ideas, countries can leverage digital technology to create a more sustainable and resilient future.

Moderator

The discussion centred around the significance of sustainable digital transformation and universal connectivity in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) played a central role, emphasising its mandate to connect the world. Member states have prioritised sustainable digital transformation alongside universal connectivity, recognising the need to address the environmental impact of digitalisation.

Collaboration emerged as a key theme, with participants stressing the importance of integrating digital and green transitions. The trade angle, circular economy, and dematerialisation were highlighted as key opportunities. The role of digital tools and data in policy making was emphasised, particularly the need for evidence-based decision making and the use of data by policy makers.

Trade was identified as essential for promoting innovation, disseminating technical knowledge, and advancing sustainability. However, challenges such as the digital divide and slow adoption of digital solutions by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) were acknowledged. Efforts to regulate e-waste, promote circular economy practices, and establish green standards were discussed.

The participants underscored the need for partnerships and a holistic approach to address challenges and maximise the benefits of the digital and green agenda. They called for unified global dialogue and inclusive digital trade policies. The importance of interconnectedness in policy making, both domestically and internationally, was emphasised. Furthermore, concern was raised about the potential widening of the gap between countries due to the rapid pace of digital transformation.

Noteworthy initiatives, such as Rwanda’s investment in digital infrastructure and e-waste management, as well as China’s digitisation of its e-waste system, were highlighted as examples of integration of digital technology and potential for sustainable practices.

The significance of standards, particularly in promoting green practices and ensuring a level playing field in trade, was emphasised. Attention was drawn to the slow adoption of voluntary standards by the industry, suggesting the need for regulatory intervention to drive their implementation. The involvement of the trade community in the standardisation process was deemed beneficial.

Overall, the expanded summary emphasises the importance of sustainable digital transformation, universal connectivity, and the use of digital tools and data in achieving the SDGs. Collaboration, partnerships, and a comprehensive approach are seen as crucial to address challenges and maximise the positive impacts of the digital and green agenda.

Speakers