Making the transition from sustainability theory to practice requires navigational tools that can be applied and integrated at the institutional level and have direct relevance for policy-making.
Establishing and managing integrated indicator, assessment and reporting systems is complex and requires intelligent strategy and adequate capacity. While many of these capacities are often in place, adding a sustainability emphasis usually implies broadening the scope of what is being measured, assessed and reported and making sure these practices are embedded in governance processes. Capacity development focused on enhancing the required skills, and putting the right organizational structures and processes in place are essential for success.
IISD's capacity development work in the Measurement and Assessment program is focused on conceptual and methodological guidance, providing tools and a "learning-by-doing" style of assistance in developing strategies as well as assessment and reporting products. Our emphasis is on moving towards more policy-relevant sustainable development assessment, reporting and planning.
Measurement and Indicator Systems
Measurement and indicator systems are means, not ends. The initiatives included in this section of our site focus on developing real tools and setting up measurement and indicator processes in specific locations, but their ultimate goal lies beyond, in helping to achieve human well-being, tackle poverty and achieve real progress toward positive community futures.
Integrated Assessment and Scenarios
The International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) works to build capacity for systematic reporting of environmental trends and their interactions with economic and social policies.
Government Sustainable Development Report
This involves the development of information systems that emphasize economic, social and environmental issues and their interactions. IISD works with governments to advance these systems of information and related tools.