Articles
Our experts weigh in on issues that are critical to sustainable development. Whether you’re looking for evidence-based policy analysis, a fresh perspective on a longstanding debate, or an easy-to-grasp explanation of a complex topic, you’ve come to the right place.
Insights
Sustainable development is a broad, complex field with many overlapping, interconnected issues. It can be hard to stay on top of where progress is being made, what new issues are emerging, and how current events are shifting us in new directions. IISD’s experts have the insight you need.
Advancing Gender Equality and Human Rights at COP 29: Why intersectionality matters
There has been resistance to integrating intersectionality language in UNFCCC discussions, but Angie Dazé explains why it is a key step toward climate justice.
How Indonesia's Incoming President Can Advance the Transition to Clean Energy
With Prabowo Subianto inaugurated as Indonesia’s President, speculation abounds about the new administration’s commitment to the clean energy transition and climate targets, given Prabowo’s positioning as the “continuity candidate.” The question is, what, exactly, will be continued?
COP 16 Will Hinge on Who Benefits from Nature’s DNA
What to expect in Cali as the UN Biodiversity Conference gets underway, explained by the team leader of the global neutral reporting service Earth Negotiations Bulletin.
Deep Dives
The world’s greatest challenges don’t always have simple answers. Going beyond the surface is critical when it comes to solving global problems. Our experts know how important it is to look back at history and consider the big picture if we want to find solutions that work.
A Precarious Pursuit
BP, TotalEnergies, and Eni stand to profit from Europe's dash for gas in Africa, while host countries Mozambique, Nigeria, and Senegal take the risks.
The WTO and Fisheries Subsidies: Where are we, exactly?
What are the latest developments in WTO fisheries subsidies negotiations, focusing on marine conservation, community impact, and sustainable fishing practices? Tristan Irschlinger offers a comprehensive overview explaining key aspects of the agreement, ongoing discussions, and what’s at stake for global fishery sustainability.
How to Make Nature-Based Solutions for Adaptation Work for Everyone
Effective nature-based solutions (NbS) for adaptation start with integrated climate risk assessments. These take-aways will help practitioners plan for inclusive and sustainable NbS.
Explainers
We can’t make progress on sustainable development if we don’t understand it. Research papers and textbooks don’t always speak in plain language, which makes it hard to learn about the nuances of environmental negotiations or get clarity on what counts as a fossil fuel subsidy. IISD experts are here to help.
What to Expect at Plastics INC-5
Q and A with Tallash Kantai of Earth Negotiations Bulletin on INC-5.
What Drives Investment Policy-makers in Developing Countries to Use Tax Incentives?
The article explores the reasons behind the use of tax incentives in developing countries to attract investment, examining the pressures, challenges, and alternative strategies that exist.
What Is the NAP Assessment at COP 29, and Why Does It Matter?
At the 29th UN Climate Change Conference (COP 29) in Baku, countries will assess their progress in formulating and implementing their National Adaptation Plans. IISD’s adaptation experts Orville Grey and Jeffrey Qi explain what that means, and what’s at stake.
Policy Analysis
To put it simply, this is a space for our policy experts to wonk out—after all, some issues can only be tackled with technical expertise on niche subjects. IISD's team understands the importance of effective commentary and the ways in which it can lead to transformative policy change in the real world.
El Comercio Digital y La Gobernanza Mundial de Datos
Neha Mishra explora el panorama actual del derecho mercantil internacional y analiza cómo alcanzar un equilibrio entre los objetivos comerciales y la necesidad de proteger la privacidad, la equidad y la competencia.
El Protocolo Digital del AfCFTA
Kholofelo Kugler examina la manera en que el Protocolo de Comercio Digital del AfCFTA podría mejorar la participación de África en la economía digital, al tiempo que analiza los retos pendientes.
Abordar la Huella Ambiental del Comercio Electrónico
Shamika N. Sirimanne destaca la importancia de evaluar el impacto ambiental del sector del comercio electrónico, que se encuentra en rápido crecimiento, y examina el papel que desempeñan las partes interesadas a la hora de equilibrar el crecimiento económico con la sostenibilidad.
Success Stories
For 30 years, IISD has worked to fulfill a bold commitment to the world: advancing development that balances economic, social and environmental priorities. Here are just some of the ways we're making an impact.
Women Turning the Table on Food Loss and Waste in Kenya
A group of changemakers led a movement to tackle food loss and waste in Kenya. IISD experts have been working closely with local women leaders to make change happen.
Hope Springs: How one community brought a river back from the brink
For over a decade, a small group of community members in Zambia have been working to restore the Nsongwe River. Now, with support from IISD’s Climate Adaptation and Protected Areas Initiative, their goal is within reach.
Fueling Change: The journey to end fossil fuel subsidies in Canada
How Canada became the first country in the world to introduce a framework for ending government subsidies to domestic oil and gas companies.