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 with accessible explainers on tricky topics. 

Highlights

How to Measure Mindset Shifts on Gender and Social Inclusion

What is the best way to measure changes in mindsets about gender equality and social inclusion?

Explainer

February 26, 2026

Why Does Trade Matter for Climate Change Adaptation Technology?

How can we bridge the gap between trade policy and climate adaptation to make “technology transfer” a reality for communities at risk?

Explainer

February 24, 2026

How to Center Gender and Social Justice in Urban Climate Action

For projects to help communities adapt to climate change, it's vital they engage with champions for gender equality and social inclusion.

Explainer

February 23, 2026

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Showing 11-20 of 81 results

What Happened at COP 30 on Climate and Health?

Experts from the Friends of Climate and Health explain why human health is relevant to climate policy, and what progress was made at the 30th UN Climate Change Conference (COP 30).
Explainer December 11, 2025

Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform Explained

What are fossil fuel subsidies, and why is reforming them so challenging? This FAQ breaks down everything you've always wanted to know and explains what COFFIS members are doing to advance fossil fuel subsidy reform.
Explainer November 14, 2025

COP 30: Key issues on trade and climate agenda

Ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, IISD trade experts explain why trade is at the heart of the climate conversation—and what’s at stake as trade issues land on the COP 30 agenda.
Explainer November 4, 2025

What to Expect at COP 30

After a tense year, our expert, Jennifer Bansard, shares what to expect when climate change negotiators meet for COP 30 in Belém, Brazil.
Explainer October 20, 2025

Harmful Subsidies Explained

Twenty years ago, IISD launched the Global Subsidies Initiative. At a WTO Public Forum panel, IISD and other experts reflected on achievements, challenges, and new opportunities.
Explainer October 1, 2025

UNGA80: Key issues to watch

World leaders are in New York for UNGA80, but eight decades after its founding, the UN is confronting urgent calls for reform.
Explainer September 19, 2025

Mark Halle talks tough politics of subsidy reform

Twenty years ago, Mark Halle and his team launched the Global Subsidies Initiative to help governments reform harmful government support measures. In a new interview, Mark explains what has changed and how countries can advance subsidy reform.
Explainer September 8, 2025