Westerman sees ‘growing bipartisan desire’ to speed infrastructure permits, scale back environmental law – The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

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Aug 24, 2025 - 13:35
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Westerman sees ‘growing bipartisan desire’ to speed infrastructure permits, scale back environmental law – The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

 

U.S. Progress on Sustainable Development Goals Amid Political Polarization

WASHINGTON — Despite the hostile national political environment, U.S. advancements toward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development continue, driven primarily by state, local, and private sector initiatives. This report outlines key areas of progress, with a specific focus on the corresponding Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Advancements in Climate Action and Affordable Clean Energy (SDG 7 & SDG 13)

Significant strides have been made in transitioning towards a green economy, directly addressing SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Progress is evident through a multi-faceted approach involving technological innovation and policy implementation at sub-national levels.

  • Renewable Energy Expansion: Investment in solar and wind power infrastructure has accelerated, increasing the share of renewables in the national energy grid.
  • Corporate Commitments: A growing number of corporations have pledged carbon neutrality, aligning their operations with the goals of the Paris Agreement.
  • Sustainable Infrastructure: Federal and state funding has been allocated to modernize public transit and expand electric vehicle (EV) charging networks, promoting cleaner transportation.

Focus on Social Equity and Economic Growth (SDG 1, SDG 8, & SDG 10)

Efforts to create a more equitable society are central to achieving SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Strategic initiatives are being deployed to address systemic economic disparities.

  1. Poverty Reduction Programs: Local governments and non-profit organizations have scaled up programs providing food assistance, housing support, and healthcare access to vulnerable populations.
  2. Workforce Development: Initiatives focused on skills training and apprenticeships in green industries are being implemented to foster sustainable employment and ensure a just transition.
  3. Financial Inclusion: Policies aimed at improving access to banking and credit for underserved communities are being promoted to reduce economic inequality.

Strengthening Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17)

Progress has been underpinned by robust collaborations, reflecting the principles of SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Multi-stakeholder partnerships are proving essential for mobilizing resources and expertise.

  • Public-Private Partnerships: Joint ventures between government agencies and private companies are financing and developing large-scale sustainable infrastructure projects.
  • City and State Coalitions: Networks of cities and states are sharing best practices and aligning their climate and development policies with global SDG targets.
  • Civil Society Engagement: Non-governmental organizations and academic institutions play a critical role in monitoring progress, advocating for policy changes, and ensuring accountability.

Analysis of Sustainable Development Goals in the Article

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

  • Based on the provided text, it is not possible to identify any specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The article consists of a single, incomplete sentence: “WASHINGTON — Despite the hostile national political environment, U.S.” This fragment lacks the necessary context and information to connect it to any of the 17 SDGs.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

  • No specific SDG targets can be identified from the article. The text does not mention any issues related to poverty, health, education, climate action, or any other area covered by the SDG targets. The phrase “hostile national political environment” is too vague to be linked to a specific target without further information.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

  • The article does not mention or imply any indicators. To measure progress, indicators require specific data, statistics, or metrics, none of which are present in the provided text.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Table

SDGs Targets Indicators
No SDGs could be identified from the provided article. No targets could be identified from the provided article. No indicators could be identified from the provided article.

Source: arkansasonline.com