R&D - An Innovation Catalyst for Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

Innovation is a critical instrument for achieving the SDGs, playing a key role in promoting a sustainable society. In this context, technology and innovation could simultaneously integrate the three dimensions of sustainable development: economic, social and environmental. The present paper explores the impact of innovation from the perspective of R&D on these three pillars, pointing out its role for economic progress, social advancements and environmental conditions, in the case of the European Union countries. The paper starts with qualitative research of the latest specialized literature regarding the SDGs and their relation with technology and innovations, highlighting important outcomes brought by innovation on economy, society and environment. The research continues with a quantitative analysis conducted on the basis of a correlation model along with three regression analyzes that aim to capture the influence of the level of R&D on the sustainability pillars. Thus, this paper affirms and strengthens the catalytic role of innovation for sustainable development. The added value of the paper is brought by the contribution to studies on the situation of EU states in terms of R&D and their potential to achieve the SDGs. Findings from regression analyzes can provide valuable information for parties involved in public policy or private companies. This information could be a starting point for a better allocation of resources towards the innovation area, but also for the formulation of integrated strategies in the R&D sector.

What price Romania has to pay for being one of the main providers of physicians in Europe?

“…Although attempts have been done in the health sector to reduce this tendency, by raising wage in 2016 and 2018 (Health Ministry, 2018), the number of physicians who have decided to practice in other countries has grown over time. They were affected not only by wages, but also by working and living circumstances in the destination country (Apostu et al ., 2020). As long as employees leave their home country, the health system suffers, especially if they are skilled medical experts.…”