Technology Foresight and Technology Assessment for Sustainable Development

This report examines how Technology Assessment and Technology Foresight drive both swift policy decisions and long-term strategies for sustainable development. It highlights the synergy between immediate analysis and forward-thinking planning, boosting dialogue and evidence-based approaches across various sectors.

This report examines the roles of Technology Assessment (TA) and Technology Foresight (TF) in supporting policymaking for sustainable development. It highlights how TA and TF contribute respectively to immediate political decisions and longer-term strategic policies. Although distinct, TA and TF often overlap and complement each other within organizational practices. The report argues that countries should leverage both to anticipate technological impacts systematically, enabling proactive policy actions. An integrated approach fosters inclusive dialogue, improves stakeholder understanding of science, technology, and innovation (STI) choices, and embeds evidence-based practices into decision-making. In transformative innovation policies, TA and TF offer critical analytical capabilities to address grand challenges, extend policy options, and propose forward-looking solutions. The report’s insights extend beyond traditional STI domains, emphasizing applicability to sectors like energy and infrastructure.