Second edition of the ICT and Space Sustainability in Saudi Arabia report has been issued

The second edition of the "ICT and Space Sustainability in Saudi Arabia" study has been issued by the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST). It is a joint effort between the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The research emphasised the importance of digital infrastructure, ICT, and space industries in supporting other sectors. CST's efforts to promote collaborative digital regulation and a sustainable digital economy are highlighted in the study.

The report represents CST's efforts to bridge the digital gap, provide ICT services in rural locations, boost reliance on renewable energy sources, and enhance recycling rates by adopting the (C.I.R.C.L.E.) road map. The study also discussed measures to stimulate research and development and investment in new technologies, enable smart cities and creative solutions, and diversify job prospects.

The report highlighted the most notable digital sustainability achievements for 2022, such as the first global successful trail of 5G technology using HAPS networks, the launch of the Emerging Technologies Sandbox, the launch of the "Recycle Your Device" initiative to recycle e-waste, increasing women's participation in the ICT sector, and investment in the space sector. The paper featured 12 success examples from over 34 organisations implementing digital solutions to promote the SDGs.