Official SDG Quiz Study Guide PDF

Goal 1: No Poverty What's the problem? Millions of people around the world live in extreme poverty, which means they survive on less than $2.15 per day. They lack access to basic necessities like food, water, and shelter. Poverty can tra...

Goal 1: No Poverty What's the problem? Millions of people around the world live in extreme poverty, which means they survive on less than $2.15 per day. They lack access to basic necessities like food, water, and shelter. Poverty can trap individuals and communities in a downward cycle, limiting opportunities for education, healthcare, and economic advancement. Why should we care? Poverty fuels social and political instability, hinders economic growth, and accelerates environmental degradation. It also contributes to human rights abuses, inequality, and conflict. Imagine: Having to choose between giving your child food today, or medicine, but not both. What can we do about it? ​ Teens and Families: Volunteer at local food banks or charities, donate to organizations that support poverty alleviation, and educate yourself about global poverty issues. ​ Governments: Implement inclusive policies that promote economic growth, create jobs, and provide social safety nets. Invest in education and healthcare for all. ​ Businesses: Adopt ethical business practices, pay fair wages, and support local communities. ​ Researchers: Study the root causes of poverty and develop innovative solutions Expanding your vocabulary: spillover effect​ Deepening your understanding: SOURCE 1, SOURCE 2  Goal 2: Zero Hunger What's the problem? Hunger and malnutrition remain significant challenges, particularly in developing countries. Climate change, conflict, and poverty are major drivers of food insecurity. Why should we care? Hunger and malnutrition can lead to stunted growth, weakened immune systems, and increased vulnerability to disease. It can also hinder cognitive development and reduce productivity. Imagine: Going to bed hungry every night, or not having enough food to grow and learn. What can we do about it? ​ Teens and Families: Reduce food waste, donate to food banks, and support sustainable agriculture initiatives. ​ Governments: Invest in agriculture research and development, promote sustainable farming practices, and provide food assistance programs, especially to marginalized communities. ​ Businesses: Reduce food waste in supply chains, support sustainable agriculture, and donate to food banks. ​ Researchers: Develop new technologies to improve agricultural productivity and reduce food loss and waste. Expanding your vocabulary: food deserts​ Deepening your understanding: SOURCE 1, SOURCE 2  Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being What's the problem? Millions of people lack access to quality healthcare, leading to preventable diseases and premature death. Non-communicable diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, are on the rise globally. Additionally, infant and maternal mortality rates remain high in many parts of the world. Why should we care? Good health is essential for human development and prosperity. Poor health can limit economic opportunities, reduce productivity, and increase poverty. Imagine: Getting sick and not being able to see a doctor, or a loved one dying from a preventable disease. What can we do about it? ​ Teens and Families: Maintain a healthy lifestyle, get regular check-ups, and promote healthy habits among family and friends. ​ Governments: Invest in healthcare infrastructure, promote healthy lifestyles, and combat infectious diseases, especially among marginalized populations. Prioritize maternal and child health programs. ​ Businesses: Provide health insurance and wellness programs for employees. ​ Researchers: Develop new vaccines and treatments, and study the causes/cures for disease. Expanding your vocabulary: (none)​ Deepening your understanding: SOURCE 1  Goal 4: Quality Education What's the problem? Millions of children and adults are unable to access quality education. Gender disparities, poverty, and conflict can hinder educational opportunities, particularly for marginalized groups. Why should we care? Education is a fundamental human right and a powerful tool for reducing poverty and inequality. It empowers individuals, promotes social mobility, and fosters innovation. Imagine: Wanting to go to school but not having the opportunity, or going to school but not learning anything. What can we do about it? ​ Teens and Families: Encourage education, volunteer as tutors, and donate to educational charities. ​ Governments: Invest in education, promote gender equality in education, and support lifelong learning. ​ Businesses: Support education initiatives, provide scholarships, and offer internships and apprenticeships. ​ Researchers: Study the impact of education on social and economic development, especially for marginalized groups. Expanding your vocabulary: safe schools with qualified/trained teachers​ Deepening your understanding: SOURCE 1  Goal 5: Gender Equality What's the problem? Gender inequality persists in many societies, limiting opportunities for women and girls. Discrimination, violence, and harmful social norms (forced marriage) can prevent women from reaching their full potential. Why should we care? Gender equality is essential for achieving sustainable development. When women and girls are empowered, they can contribute to their communities and economies. Imagine: Not being able to go to school, get a job, own property, protect your body, or choose who you will marry, all because you are a girl. What can we do about it? ​ Teens and Families: Challenge gender stereotypes, respect women and girls, and speak out against gender-based violence. ​ Governments: Promote women's empowerment, enact laws that protect women's rights, and invest in women's education and healthcare. ​ Businesses: Promote gender diversity and equity in the workplace, provide equal pay, and offer flexible work arrangements (paid parental leave). ​ Researchers: Study the impact of gender inequality on society and develop strategies to address it. Expanding your vocabulary: paid parental leave, forced marriage​ Deepening your understanding: SOURCE 1, SOURCE 2  Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation What's the problem? Millions of people lack access to clean water and sanitation. Contaminated water can spread diseases, leading to illness and death, especially among marginalized populations. Why should we care? Access to clean water and sanitation is essential for preventing disease and improving public health. It can also boost economic productivity and reduce poverty. Imagine: Having to walk miles to collect dirty water, or not having a toilet in your home. What can we do about it? ​ Teens and Families: Conserve water, reduce water pollution, and support organizations working to improve water access. ​ Governments: Invest in water and sanitation infrastructure, promote hygiene practices, and protect water resources, especially in marginalized communities. ​ Businesses: Reduce water usage, treat wastewater, and support sustainable water management practices. ​ Researchers: Develop innovative water technologies and study the impact of water scarcity on communities. Expanding your vocabulary: (none)​ Deepening your understanding: SOURCE 1  Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy What's the problem? Many people, especially in developing countries, lack access to affordable and clean energy. Reliance on fossil fuels contributes to climate change and air pollution. Why should we care? Access to clean energy is essential for economic growth and environmental sustainability. It can reduce poverty, improve health, and create jobs. Imagine: Studying at night by candlelight, or not being able to power medical equipment, or having to build fires in your home to cook meals and keep your family warm. What can we do about it? ​ Teens and Families: Conserve energy, choose energy-efficient appliances, and support renewable energy initiatives. ​ Governments: Promote renewable energy sources, improve energy efficiency, and invest in energy infrastructure, especially in marginalized communities. ​ Businesses: Reduce energy consumption, invest in renewable energy, and promote sustainable energy practices. ​ Researchers: Develop new renewable energy technologies and study the impact of energy policies. Expanding your vocabulary: renewable energy, indoor air pollution​ Deepening your understanding: SOURCE 1, SOURCE 2  Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth What's the problem? Millions of people are unemployed or underemployed, and many workers face poor working conditions. Economic inequality and job insecurity are significant challenges. Why should we care? Decent work and economic growth are essential for reducing poverty and inequality. They can improve living standards, promote social justice, and strengthen social cohesion. Imagine: Not being able to find a job, or working long hours in dangerous conditions for little pay. What can we do about it? ​ Teens and Families: Support fair trade, buy from ethical companies, and advocate for workers' rights. ​ Governments: Create jobs, promote fair labor practices, and invest in skills development, especially for marginalized groups. ​ Businesses: Pay fair wages, provide safe working conditions, and promote ethical business practices. ​ Researchers: Study the impact of globalization on labor markets and develop strategies to promote fair and sustainable economic growth. Expanding your vocabulary: modern slavery​ Deepening your understanding: SOURCE 1, SOURCE 2  Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure What's the problem? Many countries lack the infrastructure and technology needed to support economic growth. Why should we care? Infrastructure and innovation are essential for sustainable development. They can improve transportation, communication, and access to essential services. Imagine: Living far from a hospital or school, or not having access to reliable transportation or internet connectivity. What can we do about it? ​ Teens and Families: Support local businesses, encourage innovation, and advocate for sustainable infrastructure projects. ​ Governments: Invest in infrastructure, promote innovation, and encourage sustainable industrialization, ensuring inclusive development. ​ Businesses: Adopt sustainable business practices, invest in research and development, and support local communities. ​ Researchers: Develop new technologies and innovations to address global challenges. Expanding your vocabulary: (none)​ Deepening your understanding: SOURCE 1, SOURCE 2  Goal 10: Reduced Inequality What's the problem? Inequality is a major challenge facing many societies. Income inequality, wealth inequality, and social inequality can lead to social unrest, political instability, and economic stagnation. Why should we care? Inequality can undermine social cohesion, limit opportunities, and perpetuate poverty. Imagine: Growing up poor and never having the same opportunities as someone who is wealthy. ​ Teens and Families: Promote fairness and equality in your community. Volunteer your time to help those in need. Educate yourself about inequality and its impact. ​ Governments: Implement progressive tax policies to reduce wealth disparities. Invest in social programs to support vulnerable populations. ​ Businesses: Pay fair wages and provide equal opportunities for all employees. Source products responsibly and ethically. ​ Researchers: Study the causes and effects of inequality. Develop policies and programs to address inequality. Expanding your vocabulary: stateless, indigenous peoples, perpetuate​ Deepening your understanding: SOURCE 1, SOURCE 2  Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities What's the problem? Many cities are facing challenges such as overcrowding, pollution, and inadequate infrastructure. Urbanization is putting a strain on resources and the environment. Why should we care? Sustainable cities are essential for a sustainable future. They can improve quality of life, reduce pollution, and mitigate climate change. Imagine: Living in a city with poor air quality, traffic congestion, and limited access to green spaces. What can we do about it? ​ Teens and Families: Reduce waste, conserve energy, and support sustainable transportation options. ​ Governments: Promote sustainable urban planning, invest in public transportation, and reduce pollution. ​ Businesses: Adopt sustainable business practices, reduce waste, and invest in green infrastructure. ​ Researchers: Study urban planning, transportation, and environmental sustainability. Expanding your vocabulary: edible cities​ Deepening your understanding: SOURCE 1, SOURCE 2  Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production What's the problem? Excessive consumption and waste are putting a strain on the planet's resources. Overconsumption and unsustainable production practices contribute to climate change, pollution, and resource depletion. Why should we care? Sustainable consumption and production are essential for protecting the environment and ensuring future generations have the resources they need. Imagine: Living in a world with polluted air and water, and limited natural resources. What can we do about it? ​ Teens and Families: Reduce, reuse, and recycle, and choose sustainable products. ​ Governments: Promote sustainable consumption and production practices, and regulate resource use. ​ Businesses: Adopt sustainable business practices, reduce waste, and use sustainable materials. ​ Researchers: Study sustainable consumption patterns and develop innovative solutions. Expanding your vocabulary: landfill​ Deepening your understanding: SOURCE 1, SOURCE 2  Goal 13: Climate Action What's the problem? Climate change is a major threat to the planet. Rising global temperatures are causing extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and ocean acidification. Developing countries are often lacking in resources to adapt to climate change and/or prepare for climate-related disasters. Why should we care? Climate change can have devastating consequences for human societies and ecosystems. Imagine: Experiencing extreme weather events, such as floods, droughts, and heatwaves, and losing your home or livelihood. What can we do about it? ​ Teens and Families: Reduce carbon footprint, conserve energy, and support climate action initiatives. ​ Governments: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions, invest in renewable energy, and adapt to the impacts of climate change. ​ Businesses: Reduce carbon emissions, adopt sustainable practices, and invest in climate solutions. ​ Researchers: Study climate change and develop solutions to mitigate its effects. Expanding your vocabulary: resources to prepare & adapt (added above)​ Deepening your understanding: SOURCE 1, SOURCE 2, SOURCE 3  Goal 14: Life Below Water What's the problem? Oceans are facing threats from pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Marine ecosystems are vital for regulating the Earth's climate and providing food and livelihoods for millions of people. Why should we care? Healthy oceans are essential for the planet's health and for the well-being of future generations. Imagine: A world without fish or other seafood, and coastal communities devastated by rising sea levels. What can we do about it? ​ Teens and Families: Reduce plastic pollution, support sustainable seafood choices, and advocate for ocean conservation. ​ Governments: Protect marine ecosystems, reduce pollution, and promote sustainable fishing practices. ​ Businesses: Reduce plastic waste, support sustainable fisheries, and invest in ocean conservation. ​ Researchers: Study marine ecosystems and develop strategies for their protection. Expanding your vocabulary: microplastics, nanoplastics​ Deepening your understanding: SOURCE 1, SOURCE 2  Goal 15: Life on Land What's the problem? Deforestation, desertification, and biodiversity are threatening ecosystems and the services they provide. Why should we care? Healthy ecosystems are essential for human well-being and the planet's health. They provide us with clean air, water, food, and medicine. Imagine: Living in a world without forests, with polluted air and water, and a loss of biodiversity. What can we do about it? ​ Teens and Families: Reduce waste, conserve resources, and support reforestation efforts. ​ Governments: Protect forests, restore degraded ecosystems, and promote sustainable agriculture. ​ Businesses: Reduce deforestation, promote sustainable forestry practices, and support biodiversity conservation. ​ Researchers: Study ecosystems and develop strategies for their conservation. Expanding your vocabulary: (none)​ Deepening your understanding: SOURCE 1, SOURCE 2  Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions What's the problem? Conflict, violence, and corruption undermine development and human rights. They also destroy citizens' trust in government institutions (parliament, president, courts) which leads to instability. Why should we care? Peace and justice are essential for sustainable development. They create a safe and stable environment for people to thrive. Imagine: Living in a place where you feel unsafe, or where your rights are not protected. What can we do about it? ​ Teens and Families: Promote peace and tolerance, and support organizations working for human rights. ​ Governments: Promote human rights, reduce violence, and strengthen the rule of law. ​ Businesses: Operate ethically and responsibly, and support human rights initiatives. ​ Researchers: Study the causes of conflict and develop strategies for peacebuilding. Expanding your vocabulary: police brutality​ Deepening your understanding: SOURCE 1, SOURCE 2  Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals What's the problem? Achieving the SDGs requires global cooperation and partnerships. Why should we care? Partnerships can help to mobilize resources (financial assistance from the World Bank), share knowledge, and implement effective solutions. Imagine: A world where countries work together to solve global problems, such as poverty, hunger, and climate change. What can we do about it? ​ Teens and Families: Support international cooperation, engage with civil society, and advocate for sustainable development. ​ Governments: Foster international cooperation, support multilateral institutions, and promote global partnerships. ​ Businesses: Engage in global partnerships, support sustainable development initiatives, and promote corporate social responsibility. ​ Researchers: Collaborate with researchers from around the world to address global challenges. Expanding your vocabulary: Interdependency ​ Deepening your understanding: Source 1, Source 2  SDG Glossary Expand your ‘Sustainability’ Vocabulary Term Definition & Use Ready? Biodiversity The variety of life on Earth, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. Let's… Goal 15 "Biodiversity is essential for the health of our planet and the well-being of all living things." Clean Energy Energy sources that don't harm the environment, like solar, wind, and hydro power. Refl… Identify Investing in clean energy sources is crucial for addressing climate change." Desertification The process of land turning into desert, often due to drought and human activities. Refl… Identify "Desertification can lead to food shortages and displacement of populations." Economic When the economy of a country or region stops growing or grows very slowly. Refl… Stagnation "Economic stagnation can lead to job losses and increased poverty." Identify Edible Cities Cities where people grow a significant portion of their own food within the city limits. Refl… Identify "Edible cities promote food security and sustainability." Environmental The damage or destruction of the natural environment, like pollution, deforestation, and climate change. Refl… Degradation "Pollution from factories can lead to environmental degradation, harming both wildlife and human health." Identify Essential Services Services that are necessary for a society to function, like healthcare, education, and transportation. Refl… Identify "Ensuring access to essential services is crucial for improving the quality of life for all citizens." Extreme Poverty When people don't have enough money to meet their basic needs like food, clean water, and shelter. Refl… Identify "Extreme poverty is a major challenge in many developing countries, forcing millions of people to live without access to basic necessities." Food Deserts Areas where it's hard to find healthy and affordable food, often in low-income neighborhoods. Refl… Identify "Many inner-city neighborhoods are considered food deserts, making it difficult for residents to access fresh fruits and vegetables." Food Insecurity When people don't have reliable access to enough nutritious food. Refl… Identify "Food insecurity is a serious problem in many parts of the world, affecting millions of people." Forced Marriage When someone is married against their will, often to someone much older. Refl… Identify "Forced marriage is a human rights violation that affects millions of girls worldwide." Fossil Fuels Energy sources formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals which release carbon dioxide (CO2) Refl… Identify when burned.  "The burning of fossil fuels like oil and coal is a major contributor to air pollution and climate change." Green Spaces Parks, gardens, and other natural areas in cities. Refl… Identify "Green spaces provide important environmental and social benefits for city residents." Indoor Air Pollution inside buildings, often caused by things like smoke from cooking fires and chemicals in cleaning Refl… Pollution products. Identify "Indoor air pollution can pose serious health risks, especially for children and the elderly." Indigenous The original inhabitants of a particular place. Refl… Peoples "Indigenous peoples have unique cultural traditions and a deep connection to the land." Identify Infant Mortality The number of babies who die before their first birthday. Refl… Identify "Infant mortality rates are a key indicator of a country's overall health and well-being." Landfill A place where waste is buried in the ground. Refl… Identify "Landfills contribute to environmental pollution and contribute to climate change." Marginalized Groups who are often excluded from society and/or targeted with discrimination and have fewer opportunities. Refl… Populations "Marginalized populations like minorities, people with disabilities, and people in poverty often face discrimination and barriers to services." Identify Maternal Mortality The number of women who die during pregnancy or childbirth. Refl… Identify "Improving access to quality healthcare can help reduce maternal mortality rates." Microplastics Tiny pieces of plastic, usually less than 5 millimeters in size. Refl… Identify "Microplastics are found in oceans, rivers, and even our food." Modern Slavery Situations like human trafficking and forced labor in which people are forced to work against their will and Refl… Identify abused. "Modern slavery exists in many forms, including forced labor in factories and fishing boats." Malnutrition When a person lacks the right amount of nutrients, like vitamins and minerals, making them sick and weak. Refl… Identify "Malnutrition in children can lead to stunted growth and developmental delays." Nanoplastics Microscopic pieces of plastic, between 1 and 1,000 nanometers. Refl… Identify "Nanoplastics are so small that they can easily enter the bloodstream and potentially harm human health." Non-communicable Diseases that are not contagious, like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Refl… Diseases "Non-communicable diseases are a leading cause of death worldwide." Identify Overconsumption Using more resources than the planet can sustainably provide. Refl… Identify "Overconsumption of natural resources is a major driver of environmental degradation." Overfishing Catching more fish from the ocean than can be naturally replaced. Refl… Identify "Overfishing can lead to the decline of fish populations and damage marine ecosystems." Paid Parental Time off from work for parents to care for their newborn child, with continued pay. Refl… Leave "Paid parental leave policies help support families and promote early childhood development." Identify Perpetuate To make something continue to exist or happen. Refl… Identify "Discrimination can perpetuate inequality and prevent marginalized groups from achieving their full potential." Police Brutality The use of excessive or unnecessary force by police officers. Refl… Identify "Police brutality is a serious human rights violation that undermines public trust in law enforcement." Renewable Energy Energy sources that can be naturally replenished, like solar, wind, and hydro power. Refl… Identify "Renewable energy sources offer a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels." Resource Using up natural resources faster than they can be replaced. Refl… Depletion "Resource depletion threatens the long-term sustainability of our planet." Identify Social Mobility The ability to move up in social class, which depends on one’s access to basic necessities, health, and decent Refl… Identify work. "Social mobility allows individuals to improve their economic and social standing." Spillover Effect When problems in one area spread to other areas. Or, when progress in one area leads to progress in other Refl… Identify areas. "Many SDGs have a spillover effect on people’s health and/or ability to be productive workers or students.” Stateless Having no nationality or citizenship in any country. Refl… Identify "Stateless individuals often face significant challenges in accessing basic rights and services." Urbanization The process of cities growing larger and more populated. Refl… Identify "Rapid urbanization has led to many challenges, such as increased traffic congestion and pollution." Vulnerability How easily someone or something can be harmed or damaged, often dependent on geography, wealth, or race. Refl… Identify "Coastal communities are highly vulnerable to the impacts of rising sea levels." World Bank An international organization that provides loans and financial assistance to developing countries. Refl… Identify "The World Bank plays an important role in supporting economic development in developing countries." Sample Quiz Questions: