Sustainable Development Goals (College Board AP® Human Geography)

What are Sustainable Development Goals?

• The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 goals established in 2015

• The goals aim to improve quality of life for all people, especially those living in less developed countries (LDCs), and ensure a sustainable future for the planet

• They provide a framework for measuring and guiding progress across economic, social, and environmental areas

• They emphasize the importance of sustainability, environmental protection, and climate change

• The SDGs are designed to be universal, applying to all countries, and they emphasize the need for global cooperation

• The key objectives are:

  • to end poverty and hunger in all forms, especially in LDCs

  • to ensure equitable access to universal primary education, healthcare, and clean water

  • to promote gender equality, empower women and girls, and reduce inequalities

  • to encourage sustainable economic growth and innovation whilst minimizing environmental harm

  • to combat climate change and protect ecosystems in both land and water

  • reducing child mortality, improving maternal health, combating disease, ensuring environmental sustainability, and access to clean water

• The 17 goals are:

  • Goal 1: No poverty

  • Goal 2: Zero hunger

  • Goal 3: Good health and well-being

  • Goal 4: Quality education

  • Goal 5: Gender equality

  • Goal 6: Clean water and sanitation

  • Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy

  • Goal 8: Decent work and economic growth

  • Goal 9: Industry, innovation, and infrastructure

  • Goal 10: Reduced inequalities

  • Goal 11: Sustainable cities and communities

  • Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production

  • Goal 13: Climate action

  • Goal 14: Life below water

  • Goal 15: Life on land

  • Goal 17: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

  • Goal 17: Partnerships for the goals