Economies
IISD works to level the economic playing field and address unfair rules so everyone has an equal chance to prosper.
A cleaner and more equitable world will deliver real benefits for people and the planet. But everyone is not on a level playing field at the moment. And the pandemic has made things worse.
COVID-19 has shown how corrosive inequality is and how urgently we need to build more sustainable and inclusive economies. No country is immune.
IISD draws on three decades of international expertise to propose economic pathways that set the world on a sustainable trajectory.
We push for needed reforms to global economic governance systems, help emerging economies negotiate fair deals, and promote the benefits of sustainable infrastructure and nature-based solutions.
Featured topics
Investment Law & Policy
How can we ensure developing economies attract international investment that promotes sustainable development?
Trade
IISD’s work shapes trade policy so it advances sustainable, low-carbon development.
Standards and Value Chains
If designed and used appropriately, sustainability standards can help advance more sustainable production, consumption, and trade.
Featured projects
Investment Policy Forum
IISD's Investment Policy Forum is the world's only platform for investment negotiators from developing countries and a driving force for global sustainable investment reform.
Investment Treaty News
Investment Treaty News is IISD's long-running flagship journal, offering our global readership the latest news, analysis, and ideas on how international investment impacts sustainable development.
The Sustainable Asset Valuation (SAVi)
IISD developed the Sustainable Asset Valuation (SAVi) to demonstrate to governments, investors and citizens why sustainable assets can deliver better value for money and more attractive internal rates of return.
The Energy Charter Treaty
The Energy Charter Treaty (ECT) is an energy investment agreement that has grown into an obstacle to impactful climate policies—and a safeguard for the fossil fuel industry. The European Union, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom have all withdrawn from the treaty, which IISD advocated for, and must now neutralize its 'sunset clause'.
Sustainable Infrastructure Programme in Asia (SIPA)
SIPA provides countries in Central and Southeast Asia with capacity development and policy advice at different stages of the infrastructure investment cycle.
State of Sustainability Initiatives
Credible and solution-oriented research, dialogue, and strategic advice for decision-makers about voluntary sustainability standards and other supportive initiatives.
Latest
Other related topics
Circular Economy
In a circular economy, products are designed, produced, and used to reduce waste and regenerate natural systems.
Sustainable Finance
Sustainable finance has gained considerable traction in recent years, becoming a significant trend in the financial industry.
Infrastructure
Infrastructure is the backbone of sustainable development and a powerful driver of economic activity.
Public Procurement
Government purchasing power should be leveraged towards buying the most sustainable goods, services, and works.
Responsible Business
By adopting sustainable practices, companies can gain a competitive edge, increase their market share, and boost shareholder value.