Geographic Information Systems (GIS) emerge as a “silent engine” behind two Sustainable Development Goals, providing data-based solutions for the 17 SDGs (see more). This technology doesn’t just map where problems occur, but rather reveals why and what to do next, enabling smarter decisions for people and the planet.
GIS enables governments to allocate resources equitably, NGOs to design more impactful programs, companies to invest in more assertive investments and researchers to anticipate environmental trends. From mapping poverty hotspots to health service optimization, smart city planning and educational access monitoring, GIS is a fundamental strategic ally for professionals working with urban planning, agriculture, water resources, education, public health and conservation.
GIS (Geographic Information System) is a powerful tool that contributes directly and indirectly to the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as it allows you to collect, analyze and visualize geospatial data about the territory, natural resources and social conditions. Abaixo explained, clearly and objectively, how GIS contributed to each SDG:
🌍 1. Poverty Eradication
GIS identifies areas of social and economic vulnerability, helping governments and NGOs to direct public policies, income transfer programs and social infrastructure.
🌾 2. Zero and sustainable agriculture
Map agricultural areas, alone, use of land and climatic patterns, optimizing production and helping to monitor food safety and productivity.
🩺 3. Health and safety
Support vaccination campaigns, control of items and planning of health services, locating supplies and inaccessible lacunas.
📚 4. Quality Education
Identifies regions with a deficit of schools and educational infrastructure, optimizing the allocation of resources and school transportation routes.
👩 5. Gender equality
Helps map inequalities in access to basic services, security and opportunities, offering a basis for policies focused on territorial equity.
💧 6. Potable water and sanitation
Mapping hydrographic basins, water quality, sanitation coverage and water cliff areas, promoting efficient management of water resources.
⚡ 7. Clean and accessible energy
Locate areas without access to energy and potential renewable sources (solar, wind, water), facilitating sustainable energy planning.
💼 8. Decent work and economic growth
Identify potential economic zones, logistics infrastructure and priority areas for investment in tourism, agriculture and clean industry.
🏗️ 9. Industry, innovation and infrastructure
GIS supports infrastructure planning (roads, connectivity, public transport) based on technical, environmental and social criteria.
⚖️ 10. Reduction of inequalities
Allows space analyzes on territorial inequality and access to basic rights, subsidizing social and economic inclusion policies.
🏙️ 11. Sustainable cities and communities
Plan or use only urban areas, identify risk areas, support urban mobility and environmental zoning.
🌱 12. Responsible consumption and production
GIS tracks supply chains, use of natural resources and consumption standards, supporting circular economy and socio-environmental certifications.
🌡️ 13. Action against climate change
Map vulnerable areas, climate risks (floods, droughts, burns), carbon emissions and support mitigation and adaptation projects.
🐢 14. Life in water
Analyzes aquatic ecosystems, water quality, marine pollution and coastal use, guiding marine conservation actions.
🌳 15. Terrestrial life
Monitors plant cover, clearance, biodiversity, ecological corridors and land use, essential for REDD+ and conservation projects.
🕊️ 16. Peace, justice and effective institutions
Help in the territorial management of indigenous, quilombola and extractivist areas, guaranteeing visibility and respect for territorial and cultural rights.
🤝 17. Partnerships and implementation methods
GIS facilitates the sharing of data, integrates platforms and systems between governments, companies, academia and civil society for joint decision-making.
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Learn more about the Environmental Protection Observatory in the Cautário River RESEX region launched by Permian Brazil here
Article courtesy of Permian Brasil
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