Understanding Synergies, Conflicts and Trade-offs

The sustainable management of natural resources will be critical for the fulfilment of the SDGs. Of the 17 Goals proposed by the Open Working Group (OWG), progress towards 12 directly depend upon the sustainable utilization of natural resources. Current trends of escalating unsustainable exploitation and use of natural resources will affect their future availability and accessibility and is therefore likely to impede the fulfilment of the Goals, particularly eradication of poverty and as well as disrupt critical earth system processes. Further, as natural resources are intrinsically interlinked, pathways and policies designed to accomplish one SDG may either enhance or impede progress towards numerous others, across the whole spectrum of Goals.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Sustainable Cities and Communities

Responsible Consumption and Production

Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions