Economies
A cleaner and more equitable world will deliver real benefits for people and the planet. But everyone is not on a level playing field at the moment. And the pandemic has made things worse.
COVID-19 has shown how corrosive inequality is and how urgently we need to build more sustainable and inclusive economies. No country is immune.
IISD draws on three decades of international expertise to propose economic pathways that set the world on a sustainable trajectory.
We push for needed reforms to global economic governance systems, help emerging economies negotiate fair deals, and promote the benefits of sustainable infrastructure and nature-based solutions.
Featured topics
Investment Law & Policy
How can we ensure developing economies attract international investment that promotes sustainable development?
Trade
Depending on how trade policy is designed and implemented, it can either advance or be a hindrance to sustainable, low-carbon development.
Standards and Value Chains
Voluntary sustainability standards contribute to biodiversity conservation, poverty reduction, and gender equality.
Featured projects
Investment Policy Forum
IISD hosts the annual Investment Policy Forum, the world's only yearly assembly on investment negotiation exclusively for developing economy officials.
Investment Treaty News
IISD publishes Investment Treaty News, a quarterly journal offering news and analysis on the impacts of investment law and policy for sustainable development.
The Sustainable Asset Valuation (SAVi)
IISD developed the Sustainable Asset Valuation (SAVi) to demonstrate to governments, investors and citizens why sustainable assets can deliver better value for money and more attractive internal rates of return.
The Energy Charter Treaty
The Energy Charter Treaty is a regional investment agreement in the energy sector that has grown into an obstacle to ambitious climate policies. IISD has consistently promoted a coordinated EU withdrawal from the outdated treaty, which the European Commission now has proposed, and is leading the way on creating a sustainable international energy investment landscape in Europe and beyond.
Tax Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) in Mining
Equipping resource-rich developing country governments with the knowledge, skills, and tools to optimize the financial benefits from mining.
State of Sustainability Initiatives
Credible and solution-oriented research, dialogue, and strategic advice for decision-makers about voluntary sustainability standards and other supportive initiatives.
Latest
Other related topics
Circular Economy
In a circular economy, products are designed, produced, and used to reduce waste and regenerate natural systems.
Sustainable Finance
Sustainable finance has gained considerable traction in recent years, becoming a significant trend in the financial industry.
Infrastructure
Infrastructure is the backbone of sustainable development and a powerful driver of economic activity.
Public Procurement
Government purchasing power should be leveraged towards buying the most sustainable goods, services, and works.
Responsible Business
By adopting sustainable practices, companies can gain a competitive edge, increase their market share, and boost shareholder value.