The International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) is an award-winning independent think tank working to create a world where people and the planet thrive.
About IISDWhat We Do
Our research and policy work focuses on areas we deem ripe for transformation, where shifts in policy have the potential to change the game and where we have a proven record of making significant gains.
Flagship Initiatives
IISD Experimental Lakes Area
IISD Experimental Lakes Area (IISD-ELA) is an exceptional natural laboratory comprised of 58 small lakes and their watersheds set aside for scientific research.
NAP Global Network
The NAP Global Network works with partners in the world’s most vulnerable countries to develop and implement climate adaptation plans for a more secure future.
Global Subsidies Initiative
The IISD Global Subsidies Initiative (GSI) supports international processes, national governments, and civil society organizations to align subsidies with sustainable development.
The Intergovernmental Forum on Mining, Minerals, Metals and Sustainable Development
The IGF supports nations committed to leveraging mining for sustainable development to ensure negative impacts are limited and financial benefits are shared.
SDG Knowledge Hub
The SDG Knowledge Hub provides daily information on the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Earth Negotiations Bulletin
Earth Negotiations Bulletin provides balanced, timely, and independent reporting on United Nations environment and development negotiations.
New Research
IISD publishes objective, independent, high-quality research on sustainable development issues, including reports, policy briefs, and toolkits.
Toward a National Adaptation Strategy for Canada: Key insights from global peers
Drawing on global experience, this report outlines key issues and considerations that should inform the development of Canada's first national adaptation strategy.
Mapping the Landscape for a Nature Economy
This report from the Luc Hoffmann Institute provides an overview of financial transaction mechanisms and related enabling frameworks that aim to protect and restore nature.
New Perspectives
Do Mega-Conferences Advance Sustainable Development?
Should United Nations sustainable development mega-conferences continue in a post-COVID-19 era?
Food Prices Are Soaring, Hunger Is Rising: Three ways to stop another crisis
Global food prices have hit their highest level in a decade, jumping 40% in May compared to the same period last year.
Gender Provisions in Trade: Opportunities for few or protection for many?
As gender-related provisions in trade agreements develop, we take stock and ask how well-suited they are to achieving gender equality objectives.
Stay connected
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Yes, please!Our Impact
Is It Raining Plastic?
We need more research to understand the effects of microplastics on our fresh water—and find solutions. That's where our team of experts come in.
Speaking Each Other’s Language
When it comes to communicating the research findings of the world's freshwater laboratory, we need to speak to communities in their own languages. Literally.
Sink, Swim … or Fight Back
After a devastating cyclone struck, the NAP Global Network—hosted by IISD—helped Fiji make a plan to build resilience.