In a world grappling with climate change and rapid urbanisation, the role of infrastructure in driving economic and social development cannot be overstated. Global infrastructure needs are immense, with Oxford Economics estimating that a staggering $3.7tn investment is needed annually. To close this gap, countries must increase the proportion of their GDP dedicated to infrastructure. Yet considering that infrastructure is responsible for 79% of total greenhouse gas emissions, according to the United Nations Office for Project Services, it is imperative that new projects not only bridge the infrastructure gap, but do so sustainably and with a low carbon footprint.
IISD in the news
December 4, 2023