Professor Sarah Cook, Head of the School of Economics at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC), has been appointed by the UN Secretary-General as a member of the group of independent scientists tasked with preparing the 2027 Global Sustainable Development Report (GSDR).
Produced every four years under a mandate from the UN General Assembly, the Global Sustainable Development Report aims to strengthen the science–policy–society interface and provide an assessment of the scientific knowledge that can support progress towards the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
As the final report before 2030, “The report will not only examine how we can accelerate progress towards the 2030 Goals but also explore what comes beyond 2030,” said Professor Cook. “At present, we are off track: only around 20% of indicators are likely to be met by 2030, while some are even regressing. The pandemic, broader geopolitical tensions, and reduced financial support have all significantly slowed progress. This report will therefore reflect on lessons learned and scientific evidence, helping policymakers accelerate change and plan for the next phase of sustainable development.”
From 5 to 6 November, Professor Cook participated in the first in-person gathering of the Independent Group of Scientists (IGS), held in Incheon, Republic of Korea. The meeting brought together IGS members, regional experts, government representatives, and stakeholders from across Asia and the Pacific to exchange evidence, insights, and lessons aimed at accelerating progress towards the 2030 Agenda.
Professor Cook’s appointment to the Independent Group of Scientists is a testament to her exceptional expertise in economic and social development and her dedication to advancing impactful policy research.
Her research has broadly focused on issues of equality, gender and social justice in development processes, particular in developing economies and in China. She noted: “Mainstream economics prioritises efficiency and growth, but in the context of sustainable development, we must move beyond GDP as the sole measure of progress and include environmental costs and care work that GDP ignores. Economics can offer powerful tools for decision-making, but it must also evolve—integrating wellbeing, equity, and sustainability as core values in our economic systems.”
She further emphasised that universities play a vital role in promoting the SDGs. “They can contribute through research and innovation across the natural and social sciences, and help society understand both progress and gaps on specific issues. Beyond research, universities play a key role in raising awareness and shaping behaviour. Achieving the SDGs requires changes at the individual level. Through education, universities can inspire young people to recognise their responsibilities and take action as future leaders of sustainable change.”
Published on 12 November 2025