Using digitisation as a catalyst for sustainability Digitisation and sustainability are the two megatrends of this century. Although there are many correlations between the two developments, they have so far largely been considered and discussed separately. For German industry, both topics - digitisation and sustainability - are crucial for the future. In an environment characterised by massive global competitive pressure, it is essential to quickly develop and use new digital opportunities for value creation (networked production, Internet of Things, smart services, industrial platforms, artificial intelligence, etc.). At the same time, especially in Germany and the European Union, societal expectations and legal requirements for companies to handle data and new technologies, as well as environmental resources, responsibly are increasing. Digitisation of the economy and sustainability goals are not mutually exclusive, but can, and should complement each other positively.
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A sustainable Europe will only succeed if we reconcile economic, social and environmental objectives while remaining competitive. German industry needs adequate national, European and international framework conditions so that it can develop innovative, competitive and, above all, sustainable technologies that bring about ecological and social progress worldwide. In order for digitisation to act as a catalyst for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), an ambitious and future-oriented industrial strategy is needed that focuses on investment and the promotion of innovation. In addition, significantly more investment is needed in key technologies relevant to sustainability, such as artificial intelligence, networked driving or biotechnology, digital infrastructure and trans-European transport and energy networks.
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