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UN Sustainable Development Goal #9 - are we measuring the right things?

  • 1.  UN Sustainable Development Goal #9 - are we measuring the right things?

    Posted 10-22-2019 10:37 AM
    Edited by Tirza Austin 10-22-2019 10:37 AM
    ​In light of the upcoming webex on the recently published ASTM E3210 practice on infrastructure management (Add this meeting to your calendar: ASTM Presentation E3210.ics) , I looked into what the UN says about sustainable development.  Twelve indicators are presented that include access to technology (covered a mobile network, technology development, increasing rates of researchers, more R&D, more manufacturing, and loan availability).  Then there are reductions in CO2 per unit of value added production, passenger and freight volumes by mode of transport, and the proportion of rural population who live within 2 km of an all-season road. 

    The question (#1) for discussion is:

    Unless there is an institution of governance where these indicators are seriously considered within the wealth means to achieve them, isn't this just pie in the sky?

    Question 2:  Does the UN see itself as a charity institution or one that promotes countries standing on their own two feet (so to speak)?



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    Marty Rowland, Ph.D., P.E., M.ASCE
    President
    Third Leg Consultants
    Forest Hills, NY 11375
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