Recent Updates

Land grab or development opportunity?

For many millions in the developing world, land is central to livelihoods, food security, even identity — the natural result of a direct dependence on agriculture and natural resources. It is not surprising, then, that a recent wave of large-scale land acquisitions in poorer countries has sparked a major debate.

Total Economic Value of pastoralism

Changing policy makers’ perceptions of pastoralism is a challenging and long-term process. An important starting point is to improve their understanding of its dynamics and economic rationale, particularly the direct and indirect economic contributions it makes to national and regional economies.

The interface between forests, agriculture and climate change: understanding the implications for REDD

This work seeks to increase understanding of the interaction between forestry, agriculture and climate change and to map out the implications for strategies and approaches to REDD.

The Green Economy Report - Forestry Chapter

IIED are managing the process associated with the production of background technical papers and a chapter on forestry for the Green Economy Report, compiled by the United Nations Environment Progra

Asian ideas sought as small-scale farmers face challenges of globalisation

Submitted by Mike on Thu, 28/01/2010 - 11:21

Small scale producers, agribusiness entrepreneurs, researchers, nongovernmental organisations and others from across Asia, will gather in India next week to suggest solutions to the challenges confronting smallholders in global, regional and national markets.

Road to recovery: mapping a sustainable economy

THE WORLD has a unique but brief opportunity to tackle several major challenges together. Evidence of the linked causes of financial, energy and climate crises – and not just their symptoms – is on the table.

Balanced diet includes local and imported food, say IIED, Oxfam

Submitted by Mike on Thu, 03/12/2009 - 12:13

Western consumer concern over climate change can do more harm than good if it cuts demand for food produced in developing nations.

Western consumer concern over climate change can do more harm than good if it cuts demand for food produced in developing nations, warns a new book

Global network to help African farmers navigate globalised markets

Submitted by Media Ed on Wed, 02/12/2009 - 14:47

The network will gather producers, business people, nongovernmental organisations and others from across the global South to produce knowledge that can inform better policies and practices.

Tanzania has just 20 years to adapt agriculture to climate change, warn economists

Submitted by Mike on Thu, 01/10/2009 - 13:24

Economists warn that Tanzania has just 20 years to adapt its agriculture to climate change or face major impacts that cascade through the country’s entire economy.

In the first study of its kind in East Africa, published today by the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED), the researchers stress that time is running out for Tanzania to adapt.

Business models for sustainable development

Business models for sustainable development aim to deliver economic, social and environmental benefits – the three pillars of sustainable development – through core business activities.

IIED's work on business models for sustainable development cuts across several areas of  research including  forestry, food and agriculture, energy and ICTs. Our research to date has identified a number of factors that contribute to the success of business models for sustainable development.