UNCTAD – Digital Economy Report, 2024

The UNCTAD Digital Economy Report 2024 emphasizes the importance of sustainable strategies in the digitalization process to achieve an environmentally sustainable and inclusive future. Developing countries are disproportionately affected by the negative environmental impacts of digitalization and are missing out on economic opportunities due to digital divides. The report calls for global policies involving all stakeholders to create a more circular digital economy and reduce environmental footprints. The rapid growth of digitalization is creating both opportunities and challenges for sustainable development, requiring a better understanding of the relationship between digitalization and environmental sustainability. The report highlights the direct and indirect environmental impacts of digital technologies, such as energy efficiency improvements and potential rebound effects. It also stresses the need for a stronger evidence base to comprehensively assess the environmental effects of digitalization, as current data and reporting standards are lacking. Overall, the report aims to address the growing environmental footprint of digitalization while promoting inclusive development outcomes.