Current Progress Towards the SDGs in Australia

Australia has made some esteemed strides towards the SDGs. Progress has been seen in areas like health and education, where mortality rates have dropped and literacy rates have risen.

However, as any worthy goal requires work, challenges persist. Gaps are most notable in areas such as climate action, inequality, and sustainable consumption and production. Now, a robust commitment is required to fully achieve the SDGs and ensure a sustainable and equal future for all.

Steps Australia Can Take To Achieve the SDGs

Australia can draw inspiration from countries that have made significant headway in contributing to the SDGs. For instance, Sweden has achieved substantial success in SDG implementation through strong governmental support, comprehensive legislation, and widespread public participation.

To bridge the existing gaps and overcome challenges, Australia can:

• Accelerate the transition to renewable energy and invest in sustainable infrastructure, moving away from fossil fuel-based energy sources.
• Improve access to quality education and vocational training, particularly in rural and indigenous communities, to reduce inequalities.
• Increase funding for healthcare infrastructure to ensure equitable access to quality health services in rural and remote areas.
• Develop and enforce inclusive policies that promote social, economic, and political inclusion for everyone, regardless of gender, race, or socioeconomic status.
• Foster partnerships with international organisations, NGOs, the private sector, and local communities to encourage shared responsibility and collective action for sustainable development.

Benefits of Achieving the SDGs

Achieving the SDGs offers various benefits for Australia and the world, beyond what we can instantly imagine. Economically, it would stimulate growth and job creation through green industries. Socially, it would promote equality and improve overall well-being and opportunities. Environmentally, it would ensure the preservation of Australia's unique biodiversity, while mitigating the alarming impacts of climate change. 

The SDGs are not just goals but a roadmap to a more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable world. While they require some serious restructuring and rethinking old ways of doing things, they’re essential for a future that supports everyone.

ACCIONA’s Contribution to Sustainable Development

ACCIONA's philanthropic activities filter through the economic, social, and environmental facets of development. Our efforts directly align with the United Nations' 2030 Agenda, a plan striving to promote prosperity for all people and the planet where our commitment is mirrored in the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) stipulated in this agenda.

We prioritise delivering energy, infrastructure and safe access to water to communities. To do this, we apply innovative technology and managerial practices which contribute directly to SDG6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), and SDG9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).

As ACCIONA is a firm supporter of the UN’s initiative, we are dedicated to doing everything we can to realise the SDGs. From our position, this mainly involves providing access to essential services and infrastructure, and this also aligns with the company’s business models that focus on improving conditions at the base of the societal pyramid.

Our approach includes:

1. Searching for Solutions to Provide Access to Clean Water and Sanitation: Aligned with Goal 6 of the SDGs, we strive to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. Our targets include achieving universal and equitable access to affordable drinking water and appropriate sanitation and hygiene by 2030.
2. Providing Sustainable and Affordable Energy Access: We’re working towards Goal 7 of the SDGs, ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy services for all. We aim to enhance the quality of life for Australians by 2030.
3. Promoting Innovation to Build Resilient Infrastructures: In line with Goal 9 of the SDGs, we advocate for resilient infrastructure, inclusive and sustainable industrialisation, and fostering innovation. We are focused on the development of high-quality, sustainable infrastructures and innovation for development.

Australia's journey towards the SDGs is a testament to the power of vision, commitment, and collaborative action. The challenges are significant, but with determination, strategic action, and the collective efforts of government, businesses like ACCIONA, and individuals, these goals are achievable.

Achieving the SDGs is more than a moral obligation. It is a practical pathway to a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable society. To learn more about sustainable development goals and how ACCIONA plans to achieve them, visit our website.