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

Could the Energy Crunch in Bangladesh Have Been Avoided?
As the Bangladesh government implements the highest increase in fuel prices in 20 years and rations power supplies, we ask our energy experts Tara Laan and Shruti Sharma if the crisis could have been avoided and how the energy system can be reformed.

Solutions in Nature: Lessons from Fiji and Timor-Leste
Many countries are already using ecosystem-based adaptation to help build resilience to the impacts of climate change. In order to maximize its uptake and benefits, it is critical to integrate these actions into a country’s National Adaptation Plan (NAP) process.

What Is the Energy Charter Treaty?
The Energy Charter Treaty is an outdated investment treaty that is threatening to protect fossil fuel investors at the expense of critical climate action.
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Could the Energy Crunch in Bangladesh Have Been Avoided?
As the Bangladesh government implements the highest increase in fuel prices in 20 years and rations power supplies, we ask our energy experts Tara Laan and Shruti Sharma if the crisis could have been avoided and how the energy system can be reformed.
Solutions in Nature: Lessons from Fiji and Timor-Leste
Many countries are already using ecosystem-based adaptation to help build resilience to the impacts of climate change. In order to maximize its uptake and benefits, it is critical to integrate these actions into a country’s National Adaptation Plan (NAP) process.
What Is the Energy Charter Treaty?
The Energy Charter Treaty is an outdated investment treaty that is threatening to protect fossil fuel investors at the expense of critical climate action.
What Is Tripartite Dialogue and How Can It Help Combat the Climate Crisis in a Just Way?
In crafting the UN's Paris Agreement on climate change, world leaders say the energy transition must be a just one, meaning it should be fair and inclusive. What does this mean in practice?
Gender Mainstreaming in Climate Action in Côte d’Ivoire
From 2018 to 2020, the Government of Côte d’Ivoire made substantial progress in mainstreaming gender in climate action. Here are some key milestones.
Supporting Gender-Responsive National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Processes
Countries are increasingly using their NAP processes to realize gender-responsive climate action and act on the Gender Action Plan (GAP) under the UNFCCC.
Sustainable Food Systems in Canada: International trade
What are the sustainability implications of Canada's agricultural exports?
Sustainable Food Systems in Canada: Water use
What steps are needed to address the growing demand for water in Canadian agriculture?
Sustainable Food Systems in Canada: The impact of COVID-19
How has the evolving pandemic affected agriculture and food systems in Canada?
Sustainable Food Systems in Canada: Land and soil health
What does the increased intensity of farming in Canada mean for soil health and biodiversity?