The participants of the discussion were Ki Gong, a representative of the World Federation of Engineering Organizations, Liu Chuan, Editor-in-Chief of the Global Change Research Data Publishing and Repository journal, Tomoko Doko, President of the "Science and Nature" Consulting, Horst Kremers, a representative of the Group of Western European and Other States (WEOG) and Ricardo Pelayo, a business representative.
The discussion focused on the intersection of digital technologies and sustainable development. The prevailing view was that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were not being adequately achieved under the current trajectory. According to forecasts, by 2030, about 575 million people will still face poverty. Separately, the speakers discussed the use of digital technologies, especially big data, the Internet of Things and intelligent manufacturing to strengthen the sustainability of society. The potential of sustainable energy as a factor contributing to global digital transformation was also highlighted.
During the discussion, real "double transition" projects were also discussed, such as the development of systems for "smart cities" (China, Germany). These cities use artificial intelligence and big data to solve everyday problems such as traffic jams and environmental pollution. Digital twins, in fact, virtual copies of physical objects, have been singled out as revolutionary tools in the management of a "smart city". They not only increase resilience to various hazards, but also emphasize values such as the common good, adaptability and safety. However, problems persist, especially when processing extremely complex data. Standardized workflows and operational procedures were proposed as potential solutions.
Another example is Japan, which uses technology to effectively manage wildlife through remote sensing, collection and analysis of data on the population of endemic species.
In the digital age, open science is important. Experts spoke about the importance of creating open scientific infrastructures, including datasets, knowledge platforms and websites. For example, the GIES project uses big data and the Internet of Things to track and protect trademarks (China) and by 2023 has gathered more than 100 partners, including the EU.
During the discussion, the agreement between the United States, Mexico and Canada was also mentioned, which establishes a legal framework for cooperation in the field of digital development and environmental management, taking into account national legal norms.
Representatives of South Africa supported the creation and development of open access repositories as accelerators for open journal systems, open source, which play a key role in achieving the SDGs. Particular attention was paid to knowledge management, especially in the African context, its central role in achieving SDG-4 and digital transformation. South African initiatives such as the SDG center and the dissemination of open data repositories were cited as an example.
During the discussion, such pressing issues as problems in management to maximize the effect of the transition to digital technologies and "green" technologies, strategies for expanding cooperation and the development of scientific policy frameworks that promote healthy and sustainable development were discussed. The need for interdepartmental, interdisciplinary cooperation is of paramount importance, quality education remains a fundamental element of success.
