A message about COVID-19 from IISD's President and CEO

Dear members of the IISD community,

The global situation regarding COVID-19 is evolving quickly. At IISD, we are taking as many precautions as we can in order to “flatten the curve,” reduce transmission of this virus, and protect our staff and associates.

At a time of great uncertainty, I’m inspired by the energy, resilience, and commitment of our staff.  Following advice from the World Health Organization, nearly all of our employees are practicing “social distancing” by working from home until further notice. Staff have moved quickly to adapt, continuing to advance IISD’s work while balancing commitments to family, friends, and themselves. 

Strict travel restrictions are in place and public events have been cancelled or postponed. Many of our funders and partners have also reached out to us with words of support, recognizing that some projects and deliverables will inevitably change; we thank them for their understanding.

We have also updated Experimental Lakes Area researchers on restrictions to operations there. All public and educational tours at the facility are cancelled until at least the end of May. 

At IISD, we are fortunate that so much of what we do is “thought-work,” which allows for flexible hours, routines, and locations. While this pandemic has forced us into a challenging new reality, we will continue to publish important research, take on exciting projects, share what we’re learning, forge new partnerships, and advocate for better policy. You will continue to hear our experts in the media and receive IISD updates through all our communications channels.

Together we will get through this and continue IISD’s mission to create a sustainable world.

Richard Florizone
President and CEO, IISD