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

What Does Climate Adaptation Look Like in Action? Here are nine locally led, nature-based ideas

What does Nature-based solutions (NbS) for adaptation look like for the communities involved? From cultivating seaweed seeds to planting hurricane-resistant trees, here are nine locally-driven ideas.

Explainer

January 9, 2025

Why Does Debt Matter for Sustainable Development and Climate Action?

Anahí Wiedenbrüg discusses how effective debt management can help developing countries achieve climate action and SDG goals while minimizing financial risks.

Explainer

December 20, 2024

Nine Wins for Sustainable Development in 2024

Looking back on 2024, let’s take a moment to pause and appreciate the positive milestones of the year. Join us in celebrating the small and big wins for global sustainability.

Explainer

December 19, 2024

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What Will Happen at COP 29?

Talks at the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP 29) will range from defining a way forward on finance through a new collective quantified goal (NCQG) to mitigation, and loss and damage. Ahead of negotiations in Baku, IISD’s Earth Negotiations Bulletin Team Lead Jennifer Bansard examines the agenda and breaks down what to watch as eyes turn to Azerbaijan.
Explainer November 1, 2024

How Will a Global Plastics Treaty Impact Trade?

A global plastics treaty may influence trade by imposing new regulations on plastic production, fostering recycling efforts, and promoting sustainable alternatives while addressing potential challenges for developing economies.
Explainer October 8, 2024

The Urgency and Complexity of Moving Beyond GDP

Efforts to explore how the portfolio of capitals that make up comprehensive wealth—financial capital, produced capital, natural capital, human capital, and social capital—can give policy-makers insights into how their policies build wealth for their countries in the long run.
Explainer September 9, 2024

Inside the UN Tax Negotiations: Key outcomes and future challenges

Last week at the United Nations, countries endorsed new guidelines for an international tax system under the UN's umbrella. Our expert Kudzai Mataba, who observed the negotiations, provides an in-depth look at the progress, the divergent priorities of developed and developing nations, and the challenges ahead for global tax cooperation.
Explainer August 23, 2024