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.
Baku Conference Sets New Collective Climate Finance Goal
The Baku Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 29) delivered what the Earth Negotiations Bulletin (ENB) describes as “a milestone agreement that will inform climate action for years to come.” Countries set a new collective quantified goal (NCQG) on climate finance. The operationalization of the market-based cooperative implementation of the Paris Agreement (Articles 6.2 and 6.4) was another major outcome. Yet, parties could not reach agreement on a number of issues.
This Is What Young People Have to Say About INC-5
The treaty must address the entire life cycle of plastics, youth tell INC-5 negotiators. We couldn’t agree more.
Stabilization Clauses: The hidden provisions that can hinder tax and investment policy reform
Stabilization clauses should no longer automatically be included in contracts between states and investors. If they are, they should, at a minimum, build on the latest international standards on stabilization to avoid being a barrier to sustainable development.
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.
Why Trade Matters in the Plastic–Pollution Treaty Negotiations
The global push to end plastic pollution by 2040 highlights the critical intersection of trade and environmental action, with upcoming INC-5 negotiations focusing on reducing plastic production, consumption, and waste within a fair and effective international framework.
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.
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.
Digital Trade and Global Data Governance
Neha Mishra explores the current landscape of international trade law and considers how to strike a balance between achieving trade goals and the imperative of privacy protection, fairness, and competition.
The AfCFTA Digital Protocol
Kholofelo Kugler examines how the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Digital Trade Protocol could enhance Africa's participation in the digital economy while also considering the challenges that remain.
Addressing the Environmental Footprint of E-Commerce
Shamika N. Sirimanne highlights the importance of assessing the environmental impacts of the rapidly growing e-commerce sector and examines the role stakeholders play in balancing economic growth with sustainability.
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.