Recent technological advances, particularly in microelectronics and telecommunications, biotechnology, and advanced materials, pose critical challenges and opportunities for developing countries, and for the development banks and other organizations that serve them. Those countries that fail to adapt to the transformations driven by new technologies in industry, agriculture, health, environment, energy, education, and other sectors may find it difficult to avoid falling behind. This book represents a joint effort by the World Bank and the National Research Council to survey the status and effect of technology change in key sectors and to recommend action by the development organizations, government, private sector and the scientific and technological community.

Table of Contents


Front Matter
Introduction
The Science of Sustainable Development
Forces Reshaping the World Economy
Proceedings
The Globalization of Knowledge and Technology
Marshaling Technology for Development: Assessing the Challenge
Opportunities and Strategies by Sector
Rising to the Challenge: Priorities for the Developing Countries and the International Development Community
Invited Papers
The Global Generation, Transmission and Diffusion of Knowledge: How Can the Developing Countries Benefit?
What We Know and Do Not Know about Technology Transfer: Linking Knowledge to Action
Technological Trends and Applications in Biotechnology
Materials and Critical Technologies
Information Technology for Development
Broadened Agricultural Development: Pathways toward the Greening of Revolution
Lessons from the Evolution of Electronics Manufacturing Technologies
Innovations in Energy Technology
Educational Technology for Developing Countries
Technological Innovation and Services
Health Technology and Developing Countries
Sustainable Development: Mirage or Achievable Goal?
Appendix
Symposium Participants