DEA-based index systems for addressing the United Nations’ SDGs

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) represent a global commitment to tackling pressing challenges such as poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation by 2030. This special issue focuses on applying Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) as a tool for measuring and benchmarking progress towards these goals across various sectors. DEA, known for its capacity to handle multiple dimensions of performance, offers a comprehensive framework for assessing the efficiency of different systems in achieving sustainability targets. The 16 papers included in this issue are organised into three thematic sections: Sustainable Efficiency in Resource Management, Environmental and Energy Efficiency for Sustainability, and Governance, Policy, and Social Dimensions of SDG Implementation. Each section explores the application of DEA to key areas such as water management, energy use, waste management, public transport, and governance, providing insights into how DEA-based index systems can drive progress toward achieving the SDGs. The issue also sets a future research agenda, highlighting the need for expanding DEA applications across underrepresented regions and sectors, addressing data challenges, and incorporating dynamic and behavioural factors into DEA models. This collection of papers provides valuable contributions to academics, policymakers, and practitioners working to advance global sustainability efforts.