United States: Innovation (0.75)
In the 2011 G8 Deauville Declaration, innovation – and the knowledge economy – were cited as essential elements in addressing “key global challenges of our times” including climate change, poverty eradication, public health and economic development. As a result, G8 leaders affirm that “innovation, green growth and the Internet will all be crucial” in the future.
Recognizing that, the Member States agreed that “holistic approach to innovation and growth is needed” and that this type of progress demands “broad engagement of our societies and the elaboration of a framework of principles and best practices.”
Regarding green growth, Member States confirmed that ‘green’ technology and development will have positive consequences in terms of job creation and long-term sustainable development. In optimizing these initiatives, the G8 countries called on the private sector to seek additional opportunities for green growth within the global marketplace. Importantly, G8 Leaders confirmed that green growth not only involves the creation of new jobs, but the “greening” of traditional jobs and “skills policies.”
Finally, while nuclear safety was discussed in terms of improved policies and advanced monitoring systems, little was said specifically about innovation of nuclear safety systems.
Given the failure to discuss innovation with respect to nuclear safety, the United States is assigned a score of +0.75.