Unleashing the Potential: How the Internet of Things Catalyzes Progress Towards the Development Goals
Data-driven decision making; Internet of Things; Sustainable Development Goals
The world stands at a critical juncture, grappling with intertwined challenges of environmental degradation, social inequity, and economic precarity. In response, an integrated framework has been established by the United Nations in terms of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), for achieving a more sustainable and equitable future by 2030. These 17 ambitious goals encompass a wide range of interconnected targets, from eradicating poverty and hunger to ensuring clean water and sanitation, fostering responsible consumption and production, and combating climate change. However, realizing this ambitious agenda necessitates a paradigm shift, one that leverages technological innovation to drive transformative change. This paper explores the burgeoning potential of the Internet of Things (IoT) as a powerful enabler in achieving the SDGs. The IoT, a webbing of interconnected physical devices embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies, offers unprecedented capabilities for data collection, analysis, and real-time communication. By harnessing this data-driven ecosystem, we can cultivate a more intelligent and sustainable world. The paper examines specific applications of IoT solutions across various SDG domains. In the realm of Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6), for instance, IoT-enabled smart meters can monitor water usage patterns, detect leaks promptly, and optimize water distribution networks, leading to significant water conservation efforts. Similarly, in Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), IoT-powered traffic management systems can optimize traffic flow, reduce congestion, and lower emissions, contributing to cleaner air and improved urban living. Furthermore, the paper explores the role of IoT in fostering Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12). By embedding sensors in products and packaging, manufacturers can gain valuable insights into resource utilization and product lifecycles. This later can then be used to optimize production processes, minimize waste, and extend product lifetimes, promoting a circular economy. In conclusion, the paper posits that the IoT, when harnessed strategically and ethically, has the potential to be a transformative force in achieving the SDGs. By fostering data-driven decision making, optimizing resource use, and promoting sustainable practices, IoT solutions can lay the foundation for a more sustainable and impartial future for all. The world faces a critical juncture, grappling with environmental degradation, social inequity, and economic precarity. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) offer a blueprint for a more sustainable future. IoT technology, with its interconnected devices and real-time data capabilities, is a powerful enabler. In Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6), IoT-enabled smart meters equipped with water quality sensors and wireless communication protocols can monitor water usage patterns, detect leaks, and optimize distribution networks. In Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), IoT-powered traffic management systems utilizing advanced sensors and data analytics can optimize traffic flow, reduce congestion, and lower emissions. For Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), IoT-enabled product tracking systems can monitor resource utilization and product lifecycles. This data can inform manufacturers on optimizing production processes, minimizing waste, and extending product lifetimes, promoting a circular economy. By harnessing IoT strategically and ethically, we can foster data-driven decision-making, optimize resource use, and promote sustainable practices, laying the foundation for a more equitable and sustainable future. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025.
Sateeschchandra, Navya Gubbi; Chelabi, Kaddour; Patavardhan, Roopa
Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems;Volume;1398 LNNS;pp.438-451
Springer Science and Business Media Deutschland GmbH
Restricted Access; Hardcopy may be available in the library
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-90998-6_40 https://www.scopus.com/pages/publications/105005832460?origin=resultslist
Sateeschchandra N.G., Faculty of Business and Economics, Berlin School of Business and Innovation, Karl-Marx Street, 97-99, Berlin, 12043, Germany; Chelabi K., Faculty of Business and Economics, Berlin School of Business and Innovation, Karl-Marx Street, 97-99, Berlin, 12043, Germany; Patavardhan R., Dharmaram College, Christ University, Hosur Main Road, Bhavani Nagar, Karnataka, Bengaluru, 560029, India