Issues Work Areas IISD's work covers a wide range of issues within the complex field of sustainable development. Learn more about how we respond to today's most pressing challenges. Work Areas All Work Areas Circular Economy In a circular economy, products are designed, produced, and used to reduce waste and regenerate natural systems. Climate Change Adaptation As climate risks escalate, we help governments and communities anticipate, cope, and adapt. Climate Change Mitigation Tackling climate change requires urgently reducing greenhouse gas emissions to minimize the impacts on our societies, economies, and ecosystems. COVID-19 and Resilient Recovery How will the COVID-19 pandemic and the global recovery from it affect the future of sustainable development? Energy We work to identify wasteful practices, encourage new thinking, engage civil society, and support policy reform. Environment, Conflict and Peacebuilding Natural resource management and other environmental factors are linked to violent conflicts in a variety of complex ways. Food and Agriculture Agriculture is on the front lines of nearly all urgent global challenges, from hunger to climate change to rising inequality. Gender Equality For development to be sustainable and effective, the needs of all people must be considered. Governance and Multilateral Agreements The frameworks that govern economies and our ecosystems touch every aspect of our lives—and have implications for sustainable, inclusive development. Infrastructure Infrastructure is the backbone of sustainable development and a powerful driver of economic activity. Investment Law & Policy How can we ensure developing economies attract international investment that promotes sustainable development? Just Transition In the transition to clean energy, a just transition can minimize negative impacts and maximize positive opportunities. Measurement, Assessment, and Modelling Navigating the sustainability transition requires instruments that tell us where we are, where we are headed, and what our options are. Mining We work to optimize the benefits of mining and ensure the financial benefits are shared by supporting the development of laws and policies. Nature Nature-based solutions—solutions that involve working with nature to address societal challenges—have gained momentum as a tool that can deliver multiple benefits. 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. Standards and Value Chains Voluntary sustainability standards contribute to biodiversity conservation, poverty reduction, and gender equality. Subsidies Fossil fuel subsidies make little sense in a world shifting to low-carbon sources of energy to tackle climate change. Sustainable Development Goals This global agenda aims to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030. Sustainable Finance Sustainable finance has gained considerable traction in recent years, becoming a significant trend in the financial industry. Technology and Innovation When it comes to achieving a sustainable future for all, we cannot merely rely on tried-and-tested formulas. We need to think outside the box and get innovative. Trade Depending on how trade policy is designed and implemented, it can either advance or be a hindrance to sustainable, low-carbon development. Water Human activity—from pollutants to climate change—is threatening the health of our planet's precious freshwater resources. That's where we come in.
