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’s Next for Sustainable Development in 2026

IISD President and CEO, Patricia Fuller, outlines the opportunities and challenges that will shape sustainable development in 2026.

Explainer

December 17, 2025

Five Trends That Have Shaped Global Subsidies Over Decades

As we celebrate the Global Subsidies Initiative's 20th anniversary, we asked our experts how thinking on government support has shifted over time.

Explainer

December 16, 2025

What Happened at COP 30 on Climate and Health?

Experts from the Friends of Climate and Health explain why human health is relevant to climate policy, and what progress was made at the 30th UN Climate Change Conference (COP 30).

Explainer

December 11, 2025

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What Happened at COP 30 on Climate and Health?

Experts from the Friends of Climate and Health explain why human health is relevant to climate policy, and what progress was made at the 30th UN Climate Change Conference (COP 30).
Explainer December 11, 2025

Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform Explained

What are fossil fuel subsidies, and why is reforming them so challenging? This FAQ breaks down everything you've always wanted to know and explains what COFFIS members are doing to advance fossil fuel subsidy reform.
Explainer November 14, 2025

COP 30: Key issues on trade and climate agenda

Ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, IISD trade experts explain why trade is at the heart of the climate conversation—and what’s at stake as trade issues land on the COP 30 agenda.
Explainer November 4, 2025

What to Expect at COP 30

After a tense year, our expert, Jennifer Bansard, shares what to expect when climate change negotiators meet for COP 30 in Belém, Brazil.
Explainer October 20, 2025

Harmful Subsidies Explained

Twenty years ago, IISD launched the Global Subsidies Initiative. At a WTO Public Forum panel, IISD and other experts reflected on achievements, challenges, and new opportunities.
Explainer October 1, 2025