Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in the Age of Industry 4.0
This new book, Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in the Age of Industry 4.0, advances the convergence of the two enormous forces of Industry 4.0 and the UNs Sustainable Development Goals. More than a scholarly endeavor, this book is a collective exploration of how humanity can leverage technology to advance sustainability. The emergence of Industry 4.0 has introduced groundbreaking advancements, including artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, robotics, and digital transformation—technologies that hold the potential to reshape industries, redefine societal norms, and address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. The book brings together voices from across the globe, encompassing diverse perspectives, empirical studies, and innovative ideas to inspire action and ignite progress.The book first lays the groundwork by exploring how advanced technologies are transforming industries while aligning with the principles of sustainability, the role of automation in manufacturing, and the conceptualization of Quality Life Cycle Assessment (QLCA) to ensure sustainable product development.From leveraging artificial intelligence for disaster management to harnessing green marketing and eco-innovation, the book showcases how Industry 4.0 technologies can optimize resource use, reduce environmental impact, and drive circular economies. Examples that demonstrate how targeted applications of technology can transform traditional sectors into drivers of sustainable development are considered, such as human-robot cooperation, modular construction methods, and covert tactics that blend sustainability and efficiency, which are reimagining construction, which is frequently criticized for its environmental impact.Chapters also examine how Industry 4.0 technologies are being localized to address unique socioeconomic and environmental challenges. From the socioeconomic development to gender equality, chapters underscore the importance of tailoring solutions to regional contexts. Also addressed is the critical role of inclusive governance and legal frameworks, where the need for technology to support humanitys most vulnerable groups is brought home by chapters that examine the legal measures required to guarantee digital accessibility, such as for people with disabilities.Finally, the book explores how industries like steelmaking and marketing are embracing decarbonization, digitalization, and sustainable business practices to align with the SDGs. These chapters challenge traditional paradigms and offer actionable insights for creating a sustainable industrial ecosystem.What makes this book unique is its focus not only on what technology can do but also on how it can be harnessed responsibly and inclusively. It bridges the gap between innovation and humanity, reminding us that the ultimate purpose of technological progress is to enhance the well-being of people and the planet.