Small-scale satellites are used in communication networks and in applications that use high-resolution imagery in areas such as for monitoring land use and for urban planning. These satellites may soon become affordable for more developing countries, businesses and universities.17 Blockchain technology can be used in applications in which ensuring the integrity and traceability of the information about transactions is important, such as those in smart contracts, digital identity systems, land registration, and financial transactions. At the same time, gaps continue to persist both within and between countries, including in the access to digital services, and there are risks of existing inequalities being exacerbated. Societies also need to manage the often significant social, economic and environmental consequences of rapid transformations brought about by technologies (see, for example, box 1).