This year we celebrate World Standards Day on 14th October, carrying on with the theme ‘Shared vision for a better world’ and the importance of standards in supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 9.
The 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals were developed following the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by UN member states in 2015. Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for peace, prosperity, and the welfare of both people and the planet, each SDG presents an urgent call to action, and achieving them requires our collective effort and global partnership. SDG 9 specifically focuses on building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and fostering innovation.
BSI was established in 1901 with a clear objective of 'responsibility to society' and that aim is as relevant today as it was 120 years ago. BSI are a signatory of the UN Global Compact, the world's largest sustainability network, which is supported alongside the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The entire standards system is built on collaboration. It is testament to the power of cooperation and the belief that we are stronger together. Standards are the backbone of the global progress. They provide societies, businesses, and governments with the guidance and practical steps needed to achieve sustainable development goals.
BSI remains committed to advancing the goals through our own actions and by developing pioneering standards for a world of resilient infrastructure, sustainable industrial growth, and cutting-edge innovation. These standards can put nations on the path to achieving many of the Sustainable Development Goals.
A Commitment to Global Collaboration: BSI Showcase Days 2024
BSI is hosting a series of Showcase Days in Edinburgh from 21st to 24th October, alongside the 88th IEC General Meeting. These events highlight BSI’s continued dedication to fostering collaboration and driving forward a vision for “Towards an All-Electric and Connected Society.”
This Autumn, Edinburgh will welcome over 1,500 delegates from around the world to explore the role of standards in Smart Cities, AI, Quantum Technologies, and Net Zero. These events will provide a platform for thought leaders, industry experts, academia and policymakers to exchange ideas, share best practices, and explore solutions that can drive sustainable development and innovation.
BSI Showcase Day 1: City to City Exchange
Smart cities provide a wide range of benefits, including greater efficiency, environmental sustainability, improved quality of life, economic growth, and enhanced public safety. It’s little wonder that forward-thinking cities from across the globe are accelerating this approach to urban development, using technology and data to create more liveable, resilient, sustainable, and prosperous urban spaces.
BSI’s City to City Exchange provides a forum for anyone keen to learn about the challenges and opportunities of smart city planning and delivery, from industry professionals to interested members of the public.
Global experts with real-world experience will discuss the delivery of their successful smart city initiatives. By attending our smart cities conference, you will explore how urban planning and new technologies can combine to deliver smart, integrated, sustainable cities to enhance the lives of urban citizens.
Time and date: 9:00-17:00BST on 21 October 2024
Location: Edinburgh International Conference Centre
Free to attend - register here
BSI Showcase Day 2: AI Technology & Standards Summit
AI has the potential to transform every aspect of our lives, in ways we couldn’t have imagined a decade ago. This revolutionary technology allows machines to "think like humans”, increasing productivity and efficiency, drive data driven decision-making, enhance security and accelerate innovation across industries. While it has the potential to drive scientific and technological advancements, we also need to consider potential risks posed by AI, which if not addressed could reinforce societal inequalities.
Join leading experts, thought leaders and innovators as we explore the potential for AI to transform our future. Our expert panellists will discuss the future of AI, its impact on healthcare, the emerging AI economy and how standards can help mitigate AI risks. Whether you are an expert, industry professional, student, researcher or a member of the public who is simply intrigued by the buzz around AI, this event will share insight and knowledge and provide the opportunity to network with peers, connect with the experts and engage and debate cutting-edge ideas.
Time and date: 9:00-17:00BST on 22 October 2024
Location: Edinburgh International Conference Centre
Free to attend - register here
BSI Showcase Day 3: Quantum Technology Symposium
Quantum technology holds the promise of transformative change, the potential to solve complex problems faster and protect our information more effectively, unlocking innovation that will transform industries and create opportunities shaping the future in ways we can't yet imagine. The BSI Quantum Technology Conference is an essential event for anyone interested in the future of innovation and the next wave of cutting-edge technology and science.
Working in partnership with key local stakeholders, including the University of Edinburgh. With sessions from Sir Patrick Vallance, the Minister overseeing this exciting area in government, alongside pioneers in the field, including leading scientists, academics, policy, and standards makers. By attending this event you will gain invaluable insights into one of the most cutting-edge areas of science and innovation and the opportunity to network with leading experts from across the globe.
Time and date: 9:00-17:00BST on 23 October 2024
Location: Edinburgh International Conference Centre
Free to attend - register here
BSI Showcase Day 4: Enabling Net Zero Future
Climate change is the defining challenge of our lifetime and the transition to net zero will be the decisive event of our generation. The drive to achieve net zero is not only critical for preventing the worst impacts of climate change, but it also brings wide-ranging benefits that improve public health, enhance economic opportunities, and create a more sustainable and equitable society.
BSI’s Net Zero Future Conference brings together experts, innovators, and industry leaders to share knowledge, discuss challenges, and collaborate on solutions to achieve sustainability goals. By attending, you will learn about cutting-edge approaches to environmental responsibility, gain practical tools for implementing net zero strategies and network with key players in the field. Understanding net zero is essential to stay ahead in industries increasingly focused on environmental impact, equipping you to contribute meaningfully to the global fight against climate change.
Time and date: 9:00-17:00BST on 24 October 2024
Location: Edinburgh International Conference Centre
