Inequality in all its forms, the impact of climate change on cities and conflict are the three most pressing global risks today, and solving them presents major business opportunities, according to a new report released on Tuesday.
The 2017 Global Opportunities Report, written by Danish think-tank Sustainia, Norwegian energy and advisory services giant DNV GL and the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), identified smart water technology and e-learning tools for people in conflict zones as the two most promising solutions to address these and other risks.
Now in its third year, the report surveyed 5,500 leaders from the private, government and civil society sectors to outline the top five threats to global societies today, and 15 opportunities that can arise from addressing these risks.
Almost half of all respondents cited gender, race, and class inequality as the key trends that are having devastating social and economic consequences globally, while a fifth of them cited the impact of climate change on urban infrastructure and residents as a concern. Conflict, cyber crime and the severe degradation of soil resources were also pinpointed as key risks.
However, these challenges also present opportunities for businesses to innovate and create more inclusive and sustainable societies, noted the report.
New market opportunities
The solution with the largest potential market identified is smart water products and services—that is, data and sensor-driven products to help cities manage their water distribution networks and infrastructure.
By automatically reducing water loss and minimising water consumption, this technology can help cities cope with climate impacts such as droughts or growing population pressure on water resources.
Source: Eco- Business, January 26: Business opportunities in beating climate change and inequality
