Kearney – Global Trends, 2023-2028

The global trends predicted by Kearney for the years 2023-2028 include a race to slow down biodiversity loss, as the economic implications are expected to be significant. Degrading ecosystems could cause a downward spiral of $2.7 trillion in global GDP by 2030, leading governments and businesses to increase their efforts in protecting species and land. Industrial policy will also gain momentum as countries aim to build resilience and secure strong economic growth, especially in critical resource dependencies, clean energy, and advanced technologies. This may lead to geopolitical tensions as countries compete for dominance. In terms of transportation, innovative rapid transit technologies like flying cars and hyperloops are expected to become more mainstream, leading policymakers to implement regulations. Businesses need to anticipate how these advancements can benefit them and prepare accordingly. E-waste, one of the fastest-growing waste streams, has the potential for economic returns worth more than $62.5 billion per year if treated properly through recycling. A circular economy focused on e-waste management could provide financial opportunities and benefit the environment if supported by policies and regulations. Lastly, the rise of digital twins, digital representations of physical systems, will have countless use cases in areas such as government operations, urban planning, and healthcare. However, cybersecurity risks will also need to be addressed.