Workshop “Innovations for the SDGs” during the SDG Forum 2024

Innovation and collaboration as the key to sustainable solutions for global challenges 

The SDG Forum is Belgium's most important annual event dedicated to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This forum brings together a diverse group of participants from government, companies, civil society, NGOs, and research institutions, all working towards achieving these global goals. 

On 6 November 2024, G-STIC organized the workshop "Innovations for the SDGs: Demonstrating sustainable technologies in developing countries" during the SDG Forum. During this workshop, it was demonstrated how various stakeholders from diverse sectors can collaborate to implement sustainable and innovative solutions in the Global South. 

Inspired by best practices 

The workshop was opened by Herman De Cock from the Department of Environment. Katrien Van Hooydonk (VITO), Bart Dewaele (Join For Water), Jasper Verreydt (Liguris) and Nina Pattyn (Rikolto) then presented their approaches within ongoing climate projects funded by the Government of Flanders through the Flanders International Climate Action Programme. They shared their best practices and challenges, including obstacles related to funding, political contexts, and technological barriers. Together with the participants, risks were identified with the aim of discovering effective collaboration models and new insights from Flemish projects. 

Key takeaways from the workshop 

• Climate change affects us all
  Addressing issues such as drought and shifting weather patterns benefits everyone, from Burundi to Peru and Belgium. Cross-border collaboration fosters innovation and safeguards livelihoods in both current and future climate scenarios. 

• Collaborating with diverse local stakeholders is essential for achieving lasting impact
  Achieving meaningful impact requires robust partnerships that unite diverse perspectives and leverage local knowledge. Integrating these local insights serves as the cornerstone for sustainable and successful initiatives. 

• Risk planning and agility for the foundation of a successful project
  Impactful projects start with solid risk planning, but flexibility is key. Being prepared for unexpected challenges and continuously learning from the ecosystem are essential for achieving resilient outcomes. 

Joining forces for the SDGs 

The workshop highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in achieving the SDGs. Participants left the session with new, valuable insights and practical tools to make their own projects more effective. Cooperation, shared responsibility, and local engagement remain key to sustainable progress.