After seeming to settle on 230 indicators to measure the sustainable development goals (SDGs), the United Nations has abruptly decided to adopt additional indicators for Agenda 2030. During its latest session, the Interagency Expert Group on the SDGs (IAEG-SDGs) determined that each of the 169 targets should be measured in relation to each of the 17 goals. In this way, the SDG agenda will have maximum integration, interdependency, and inclusion through the incorporation of 2,873 indicators.
Under the banner of “No Indicator Left Behind,” the IAEG-SDGs will aim to utilize every indicator and data point currently available on earth. Reports suggest that data experts and statisticians briefly considered including a category to cover deep space, which would have given new meaning to the term universal, but ultimately decided to hold back on galactic expansion until the post-2030 development agenda.
The new indicators do an impressive job of further integrating the agenda. For example, one new indicator counts every school that maintains a saltwater aquarium with at least two (2) species of fish. This indicator thus effectively relates target 4a to “Build and upgrade education facilities...” with goal 14 to “Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.”
With the 17 goals, 169 targets, and 2,873 indicators now set, the UN is turning to implementation of the SDG agenda. While the task may seem overwhelming, the UN has embraced a unique new strategy. Rather than set up global, regional, and national mechanisms for monitoring and implementation, the international body has turned to corporate sponsorship. Nike, a company known worldwide for its athletic apparel and footwear, will exclusively promote implementation of the SDG agenda through its classic tagline: “Just Do It.”
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