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United Kingdom

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Overview

The United Kingdom’s first Voluntary National Review (VNR) 2019 presents the country’s progress towards implementing the United Nations (UN)2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The review highlights the UK’s commitment to delivering the Goals both domestically and internationally through collaboration between government, devolved administrations, civil society, businesses and local communities. It outlines achievements, ongoing challenges and future priorities, while reaffirming the UK’s commitment to the principle of “Leave No One Behind”.

Recommendations

  1. Strengthen policies to reduce poverty, homelessness and regional inequalities, particularly for vulnerable groups.
  2. Improve collection of disaggregated SDG data to strengthen evidence-based policymaking and monitoring.
  3. Increase investment in renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure and low-carbon transport systems.
  4. Expand mental health services and strengthen long-term health and social care sustainability.
  5. Accelerate actions to reduce plastic pollution, biodiversity loss and environmental degradation.
  6. Improve affordable housing supply and strengthen sustainable urban planning measures.
  7. Promote inclusive economic growth through productivity improvement, skills development and fair employment opportunities.
  8. Strengthen international cooperation and partnerships to support global SDG implementation and climate action.

Conclusion

The UK Voluntary National Review 2019 demonstrated significant progress towards implementing the Sustainable Development Goals through strong institutional frameworks, climate leadership, economic growth and international partnerships. The review highlighted achievements in renewable energy, healthcare, education and environmental protection, while also recognising continuing challenges related to inequality, poverty, climate change and sustainable development. The UK reaffirmed its commitment to the principle of “Leave No One Behind” and to accelerating action towards achieving the 2030 Agenda.

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SDGs Progress Tracker
  • SDGs Completion % 53
  • SDGs On-Track % 41
  • SDGs Achieved % 12
Voluntary National Reports
Country Focal Point

Voluntary National Review (VNR) Team
UK Mission to the United Nations (New York)

Location

Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, SW1A 2AH, London, Greater London, England, United Kingdom

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Region
  • UK
  • Europe
No Poverty
Score: 4
Justification The UK identified poverty reduction and reducing inequalities as key priorities under the 2030 Agenda, with a commitment to support vulnerable groups and ensure that no one is left behind.
Challenges Poverty remained a major issue across the UK, particularly among children, low-income households and lone-parent families. In 2017 -2018, around 20% of children were living in absolute poverty before housing costs, rising to nearly 30% after housing costs, while 47% of lone-parent families experienced relative poverty after housing costs.
Progress/

Solution

 The UK increased employment opportunities and improved income support measures. By 2019, employment reached 32.7 million, with over 1.5 million more people in work since 2015. The National Living Wage also increased earnings, with full-time workers earning more than £13,700 annually after tax and National Insurance.
Unsolved Challenges Housing costs, homelessness and in-work poverty continued to place pressure on vulnerable households, with 20% of working-age individuals remaining in relative poverty after housing costs in 2017-2018.
Zero Hunger
Score: 4
Justification The UK recognised food security, nutrition and sustainable agriculture as essential components of sustainable development and public well-being
Challenges Food insecurity persisted among disadvantaged households and low-income communities. In Scotland, 8% of adults experienced food insecurity in 2017, while limited national data restricted full understanding of the scale of the issue.
Progress/

Solution

 The UK introduced food insecurity questions into the Family Resources Survey in 2019 to strengthen national monitoring and policy responses. The Government also invested £90 million in the Transforming Food Production Programme to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability, alongside initiatives such as Healthy Start and Food and Fun to support vulnerable families.
Unsolved Challenges Diet-related inequalities and long-term food insecurity remained ongoing concerns despite a reduction in severe food insecurity from 4% in 2014–16 to 3.4% in 2015–17.
Good Health
Score: 4
Justification The UK highlighted the importance of universal healthcare, prevention strategies and public health investment to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all.
Challenges The UK continued to face growing pressures from mental health conditions, obesity, substance misuse and an ageing population. Drug-related deaths in Scotland increased significantly from 455 in 2007 to 934 in 2017, highlighting the scale of the public health challenge.
Progress/

Solution

 The UK strengthened prevention and healthcare initiatives through England’s Prevention Vision and Scotland’s Suicide Prevention Action Plan. Internationally, the UK supported 17.5 million people with HIV treatment and distributed 197 million mosquito nets through the Global Fund in 2017, while also investing £265 million through the Fleming Fund to tackle antimicrobial resistance.
Unsolved Challenges Health inequalities, rising mental health concerns and long-term pressure on health and social care systems remained unresolved challenges despite reductions in road accident deaths from 168 in 2015 to 146 in 2017 in Scotland.
Quality Education
Score: 5
Justification The UK recognised inclusive and quality education as essential for improving life opportunities, reducing inequalities and supporting sustainable development
Challenges Educational inequalities persisted among disadvantaged groups, including children from low-income families and pupils with special educational needs. Attainment gaps between disadvantaged pupils and their peers remained significant across the UK.
Progress/

Solution

 The UK invested in education reforms and skills development to improve access and attainment. In England, the proportion of pupils achieving a good level of development at the end of reception increased from 52% in 2013 to 72% in 2018. Scotland also expanded early learning and childcare provision to improve educational outcomes.
Unsolved Challenges Regional disparities, educational attainment gaps and unequal access to higher education and skills training continued to affect progress towards SDG 4.
Gender Equality
Score: 4
Justification The UK identified gender equality and women’s empowerment as central to achieving sustainable development, economic growth and social inclusion.
Challenges Gender inequalities remained in employment, leadership representation and gender-based violence. Women continued to experience pay inequalities and underrepresentation in senior decision-making roles.
Progress/

Solution

 The UK introduced gender pay gap reporting regulations for organisations with over 250 employees and strengthened measures to tackle violence against women and girls. Female representation on Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE) 100 boards increased to 32% in 2018, compared with 12.5% in 2011.
Unsolved Challenges The gender pays gap, domestic abuse and unequal representation in leadership positions remained ongoing challenges despite policy improvements and increased awareness.
Water & Sanitation
Score:4
Justification The UK recognised access to clean water, sanitation and sustainable water management as essential for protecting public health and the environment.
Challenges Water pollution, environmental degradation and pressures on water resources continued to affect water quality and ecosystem sustainability across the UK.
Progress/

Solution

 The UK improved drinking water quality and wastewater treatment standards through investment in water infrastructure and environmental protection measures. In England, 99.96% of drinking water tests met the required standards in 2017.
Unsolved Challenges Sustainable water management, pollution reduction and protection of aquatic ecosystems remained long-term environmental challenges requiring continued investment and policy action.
Clean Energy
Score: 3
Justification The UK highlighted the importance of affordable, reliable and clean energy in supporting economic growth, reducing emissions and achieving climate goals.
Challenges The transition to low-carbon energy systems required significant investment, infrastructure changes and improvements in energy efficiency. Fuel poverty also remained a concern for vulnerable households.
Progress/

Solution

 The UK increased renewable energy generation and reduced greenhouse gas emissions through clean energy policies. In 2018, renewable sources generated 33% of the UK’s electricity, compared with only 7% in 2010. Coal use in electricity generation also declined significantly.
Unsolved Challenges Energy affordability, decarbonisation of heating and transport, and reducing dependence on fossil fuels continued to present challenges for achieving SDG 7.
Decent Work
Score: 3
Justification The UK identified sustainable economic growth, productive employment and decent work as essential for improving living standards and supporting inclusive development.
Challenges Regional economic inequalities, low productivity growth and insecure employment continued to affect parts of the UK economy. Young people, disabled individuals and low-skilled workers faced greater barriers to employment opportunities.
Progress/

Solution

 The UK achieved record employment levels, with employment reaching 32.7 million in 2019 and unemployment falling to its lowest level in over 40 years. Youth unemployment also declined significantly, while the National Living Wage improved earnings for low-paid workers.
Unsolved Challenges Productivity gaps, regional disparities and insecure forms of employment, including zero-hours contracts and low-paid work, remained significant challenges for achieving inclusive economic growth.
Industry & Infrastructure
Score: 4
Justification The UK recognised innovation, resilient infrastructure and sustainable industrial development as key drivers of long-term economic growth and competitiveness.
Challenges Infrastructure pressures, regional connectivity gaps and the need to transition towards low-carbon industries remained major challenges across the UK. Investment in research and development also lagged behind leading economies.
Progress/

Solution

 The UK launched the Industrial Strategy to strengthen innovation, infrastructure and productivity. Research and development investment increased to 1.7% of GDP in 2017, while the Government committed to increasing this to 2.4% by 2027. Major infrastructure investments also supported transport, digital connectivity and clean growth initiatives.
Unsolved Challenges Regional inequalities in infrastructure investment, low productivity growth and the transition to sustainable industrial systems remained ongoing concerns for the UK.
Inequality
Score: 4
Justification The UK emphasised reducing inequalities and promoting social inclusion as essential to delivering the principle of “Leave No One Behind” within the 2030 Agenda.
Challenges Income inequality, regional disparities and unequal access to opportunities continued to affect disadvantaged and marginalised groups across the UK. Disabled people, ethnic minorities and low-income households experienced higher levels of disadvantage.
Progress/

Solution

 The UK introduced measures to improve social mobility, increase employment and strengthen support for disadvantaged groups. Employment among disabled people increased by over 900,000 between 2013 and 2019, while the National Living Wage supported income growth for low-paid workers.
Unsolved Challenges Persistent inequalities in income, health, education and employment opportunities continued to limit progress towards reducing social and economic disparities across the UK.

 

Sustainable Cities
Score:3
Justification The UK recognised sustainable cities and communities as important for improving quality of life, environmental sustainability and inclusive urban development.
Challenges Housing shortages, homelessness, air pollution and pressures on urban infrastructure continued to affect many cities and communities across the UK. Affordable housing remained a major concern, particularly in high-demand urban areas.
Progress/

Solution

 The UK invested in affordable housing, public transport and environmental improvements to support sustainable urban development. In 2017 2018, over 222,000 additional homes were delivered in England, representing the highest level in all but one of the previous 31 years. Air quality measures and low-emission transport initiatives were also expanded.
Unsolved Challenges Urban inequalities, rising housing demand, homelessness and environmental pressures continued to challenge sustainable community development despite ongoing policy interventions.
Responsible Consumption
Score: 3
Justification The UK identified sustainable consumption and production as essential for reducing environmental pressures, improving resource efficiency and supporting long-term economic sustainability. The Government recognised that unsustainable production and waste generation contribute significantly to environmental degradation and climate change.
Challenges High levels of material consumption, food waste and plastic pollution remained major challenges across the UK. Waste generation continued to place pressure on natural resources and waste management systems, while unsustainable consumption patterns affected biodiversity and carbon emissions.
Progress/

Solution

 The UK introduced the 25 Year Environment Plan and strengthened waste reduction and recycling policies. England committed to eliminating avoidable plastic waste by the end of 2042, while the Resources and Waste Strategy aimed to improve recycling and reduce single-use plastics. Recycling rates for household waste in England increased from 11% in 2000-2001 to around 45% in 2017-2018. The carrier bag charge also reduced single-use plastic bag sales in major supermarkets by more than 86% since its introduction in 2015.
Unsolved Challenges Food waste, excessive material consumption and plastic pollution continued to affect environmental sustainability. Achieving a circular economy and reducing dependence on non-recyclable materials remained long-term challenges despite improvements in recycling and waste reduction measures.
Climate Action
Score:3
Justification The UK identified climate change as one of the most significant global challenges and recognised the importance of urgent action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and strengthen climate resilience. The UK committed to supporting the Paris Agreement and promoting low-carbon growth domestically and internationally.
Challenges The UK continued to face risks from rising temperatures, flooding, coastal erosion and extreme weather events. Significant investment and structural changes were still required to decarbonise transport, heating and industry sectors.
Progress/

Solution

 The UK became the first major economy to legislate for net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Between 1990 and 2017, the UK reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 42% while growing the economy by over 72%. Renewable electricity generation increased significantly, with renewable sources generating 33% of electricity in 2018 compared with 7% in 2010. Coal-fired electricity generation also declined sharply, contributing to cleaner energy production. The UK additionally committed £5.8 billion in international climate finance between 2016 and 2020 to support developing countries.
Unsolved Challenges Despite emission reductions, transport emissions remained high and further action was required to achieve long-term decarbonisation targets. Climate adaptation, sustainable infrastructure investment and transitioning to low-carbon systems continued to present major policy and economic challenges.
Life Below Water
Score: 3
Justification The UK recognised the importance of protecting marine ecosystems, reducing ocean pollution and ensuring sustainable use of marine resources to support biodiversity, fisheries and coastal communities.
Challenges Marine pollution, plastic waste, overfishing and habitat degradation continued to threaten marine biodiversity and ocean sustainability. Climate change also increased risks to marine ecosystems through rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification.
Progress/

Solution

 The UK expanded marine protected areas and strengthened marine conservation policies. By 2019, the UK had designated over 50% of its waters as marine protected areas. Measures were also introduced to reduce plastic pollution and improve sustainable fisheries management. The UK supported international ocean conservation initiatives and marine biodiversity protection through global partnerships.
Unsolved Challenges Plastic pollution, biodiversity loss and pressures on fish stocks remained ongoing concerns. Effective long-term management of marine ecosystems and sustainable fisheries continued to require stronger international cooperation and enforcement.
Life on Land
Score: 3
Justification The UK highlighted the importance of protecting terrestrial ecosystems, forests and biodiversity to support environmental sustainability, climate resilience and human well-being.
Challenges Habitat loss, declining species populations and environmental degradation continued to threaten biodiversity across the UK. Intensive land use and pollution also affected ecosystem health and wildlife conservation.
Progress/

Solution

 The UK introduced the 25 Year Environment Plan to improve biodiversity conservation, restore habitats and enhance natural capital. Between 2011 and 2018, woodland cover in the UK increased to 13% of total land area. The UK also supported international biodiversity protection initiatives and seed conservation programmes, including the Millennium Seed Bank Partnership, which conserved over 2 billion seeds globally.
Unsolved Challenges Species decline, habitat fragmentation and pressures from urban development and climate change remained significant environmental challenges. Continued investment and stronger ecosystem restoration measures were required to halt biodiversity loss.
Peace & Justice
Score: 3
Justification The UK emphasised the importance of effective institutions, access to justice, human rights and the rule of law in supporting sustainable development and social stability.
Challenges Violence, modern slavery, cybercrime and inequalities in access to justice continued to affect communities across the UK. Concerns also remained regarding trust in institutions and protection of vulnerable groups.
Progress/

Solution

 The UK strengthened legislation and institutional frameworks to combat modern slavery, organised crime and corruption. The Modern Slavery Act 2015 positioned the UK as a global leader in tackling human trafficking and exploitation. The UK also invested in cybersecurity and international peacebuilding programmes. Crime Survey data showed that overall crime levels had fallen significantly compared with previous decades, despite increases in some categories of violent crime and cyber-related offences.
Unsolved Challenges Modern slavery, cybercrime, serious violence and inequalities in justice access remained ongoing concerns. Maintaining public trust, improving institutional transparency and protecting vulnerable populations continued to require sustained action and investment.
Partnerships
Score: 5
Justification The UK recognised global partnerships, international cooperation and financing for development as essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The Government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting developing countries and strengthening multilateral cooperation.
Challenges Global inequalities, financing gaps and complex international development challenges continued to affect SDG implementation worldwide. Coordinating partnerships across governments, businesses and civil society also remained challenging.
Progress/

Solution

 The UK maintained its commitment to spending 0.7% of Gross National Income on Official Development Assistance (ODA). In 2018, UK ODA reached approximately £14.6 billion, supporting health, education, climate action and humanitarian programmes globally. The UK also supported international partnerships through organisations such as the United Nations, World Bank and Global Fund. Cross-government collaboration and stakeholder engagement were strengthened during preparation of the UK VNR 2019.
Unsolved Challenges Sustaining long-term development financing, improving global policy coordination and addressing growing humanitarian and climate-related pressures remained major international challenges. Stronger partnerships and more integrated approaches were still needed to accelerate progress towards the SDGs.
SDGs World Progress: Achieved
  • SDG17
  • SDG4
SDGs World Progress: On-Track
  • SDG1
  • SDG2
  • SDG3
  • SDG5
  • SDG6
  • SDG9
  • SDG10
SDGs World Progress: Moderately Off-Track
  • SDG14
  • SDG7
  • SDG8
  • SDG11
  • SDG13
  • SDG15
  • SDG16
Country Challenges
  1. Persistent poverty and inequalities remained significant, particularly for children, lone-parent households, disabled people and low-income communities.
  2. Rising housing costs, homelessness and regional disparities continued to affect social and economic inclusion.
  3. Food insecurity and unequal access to nutritious food persisted despite improvements in monitoring systems.
  4. Mental health pressures, obesity, substance misuse and increasing demand on health and social care systems remained major public health concerns.
  5. Climate change, biodiversity loss, marine pollution and environmental degradation continued to threaten long-term sustainability.
  6. Productivity gaps, insecure employment and regional economic inequalities affected inclusive economic growth.
  7. Achieving net zero emissions and transitioning to low-carbon transport, heating and industrial systems required substantial investment and structural reforms.
  8. Data gaps and limited disaggregated data restricted effective monitoring of some SDG indicators and vulnerable populations.
World Challenges
  • Data Gaps
  • Poverty
  • Food Insecurity
  • Social Inclusion
  • Economic Disparities
  • Health System Weaknesses
  • Climate Change
  • Investment Barriers
  • Unemployment
  • Sustainable Production
Country Lessons Learned
  1. Strong cross-government coordination improves SDG implementation and policy integration across sectors.
  2. Stakeholder engagement with civil society, businesses, academia and local authorities strengthens accountability and inclusive decision-making.
  3. Establishing measurable national targets and transparent monitoring systems supports effective SDG progress tracking.
  4. Investing in renewable energy and climate legislation can support economic growth while reducing emissions. Between 1990 and 2017, the UK reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 42% while growing the economy by over 72%.
  5. Legal and policy frameworks, such as mandatory gender pay gap reporting and the Modern Slavery Act 2015, can improve institutional accountability and social protection.
  6. Long-term environmental planning, including the 25 Year Environment Plan, supports sustainable resource management and biodiversity conservation.
World Lessons Learned
  • Multi-Stakeholder Engagement
  • Policy Alignment
  • National Experience
  • Renewable Energy
  • Green Growth
  • Policy and Legal Framework
  • Environmental Sustainability
Country Contribution
  1. The UK became the first major economy to legislate for net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 in 2019.
  2. Renewable electricity generation increased from 7% in 2010 to 33% in 2018, supporting the transition towards clean energy.
  3. The UK maintained its commitment to allocate 0.7% of Gross National Income to Official Development Assistance, providing approximately £14.6 billion in aid in 2018.
  4. The Modern Slavery Act 2015 strengthened efforts to combat human trafficking and exploitation internationally.
  5. Plastic bag sales in major supermarkets declined by more than 86% following the introduction of the carrier bag charge in 2015.
  6. Over 50% of UK waters were designated as marine protected areas by 2019 to strengthen marine biodiversity conservation.
  7. The UK supported 17.5 million people with HIV treatment and distributed 197 million mosquito nets globally through the Global Fund in 2017.
World Contribution
  • Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act
  • Marine Protected Areas
  • Global Biodiversity Framework

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