With scientific data on the climate consequences of unsustainable energy production becoming more and more serious, the United Nations (UN) has decided to form a group from various parts of the world to prepare the Global Sustainable Development Report (GSDR) 2027. The publication, to be launched before the end of the 2030 Agenda, is expected to present the latest scientific evidence and propose solutions to ensure the achievement of global sustainability goals.
Sustainable collaboration unites global scientists to guide future development
Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted that the objective of forming the group is to increase dialogue between science and public policy, offering recommendations that can guide governments and institutions in the face of rapidly changing environmental challenges.
The panel is made up of 14 independent scientists from across the globe, with representatives from countries such as Brazil, Nigeria, Greece, China, Germany, and South Africa. This intentional diversity seeks to ensure a global perspective capable of addressing the different problems faced by different regions.
The new group is composed of the following professionals:
- Phoebe Koundouri (Greece)
- Adedoyin Adeleke (Nigeria)
- Marianne Beisheim (Germany)
- Vanesa Castan Broto (Spain)
- Yensi Flores-Bueso (Honduras)
- Sarah Cook (UK)
- Hussam Hussein (Jordan)
- Mmaki Jantjies (South Africa)
- Sherif Kamel (Egypt)
- Milica V. Matijević (Serbia)
- Steven Ratuva (Fiji)
- Fabio Veras Soares (Brazil)
- Eliane Ubalijoro (Rwanda)
- Taidong Zhou (China)
Connecting regions and disciplines to strengthen the world’s sustainable agenda
Among the diverse professions of the group members, economist Phoebe Koundouri and researcher Adedoyin Adeleke will serve as co-chairs. The group will work with the support of six major UN entities: the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA), UNESCO, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), UNDP, UNCTAD, and the World Bank. These institutions will be responsible for coordinating contributions from institutions such as universities, private sector groups, and civil society organizations.
The GSDR 2027 will be the third in a series, following The Future is Now (2019) and Times of Crisis, Times of Change (2023). Earlier editions identified some key transformation areas such as human well-being, fair economies, sustainable food systems, and energy decarbonization.
A new snapshot of the challenges and progress of the 2030 Agenda
The report is scheduled to be released and published in September 2027, and will be the last one before the deadline of the 2030 Agenda, which places an even greater level of importance on the document. It should assess the progress achieved and indicate solutions to reverse negative trends.
The expectation is that the GSDR 2027 will present the progress made and acknowledge the path taken so far, but that it will realistically point out the challenges that still need to be overcome. The UN has stated that the document should provide:
“scientific guidance on the state of global sustainable development, addressing emerging challenges, and offering actionable recommendations for governments and other stakeholders.”
In addition to measuring results, the panel also aims to highlight effective innovations and successful local experiences, encouraging the exchange of solutions between countries. With this evidence-based approach, the panel will ensure that science plays a direct role in the formulation of sustainable policies.
Research and global cooperation as a path to a shared future
The new report, in addition to being a technical document based on scientific facts, will also serve as a guide to assist policymakers, business leaders, and citizens interested in understanding the direction the planet is taking.
The release of the GSDR 2027 and the list of scientists involved in this initiative come at a convenient global time. Nations are increasingly needing to balance their respective economic development with environmental preservation and social justice. Therefore, international cooperation and investment in scientific innovation are becoming necessary to build a truly lasting future.