WRI Insights

Insights is WRI’s flagship publication dedicated to telling stories about the intersection of people, nature and the climate. Through analysis, commentary and data-driven articles, WRI's researchers share expertise and highlight solutions for securing a sustainable future.

Get our latest articles, upcoming events, research and more.

By sharing your information you agree to receive updates from WRI. You can change your email preferences at any time.

Explainers

Explore All Insights

All Topics
Subtype of Resource
Region
2884 Resources for
Housekeeper cleaning solar thermal panels in India
Commentary

Renewable Energy Is Soaring. Are We Ready?

Renewable energy investment reached at all-time high last year at $286 billion. New WRI research explores the market trends behind this growth, as well as challenges that remain.

Commentary
Solar panel on roof
Commentary

The Rise of the Urban Energy “Prosumer”

A "prosumer" produces and consumes electricity, usually through rooftop solar panels, while also selling power back to the grid. Prosumers could play an important role in helping India meet its ambitious goal of installing 40 gigawatts of rooftop solar capacity by 2022.

Commentary
Housing along the canals in Bangkok.
Commentary

What Can We Learn from Thailand’s Inclusive Approach to Upgrading Informal Settlements?

About one billion people live in slums or informal settlements. Thailand's Bann Mankong program, which improved the living conditions of more than 90,000 households at a cost of just $570 per family, offers lessons on solutions.

Commentary
forest fire in Alberta, Canada
Commentary

5 Images Explain Why the Alberta Forest Fires Are So Hard to Stop

Satellites have detected more than 1,000 active fire points around Fort McMurray, Canada in the last week. Data from the Global Forest Watch platform provides context on what's happening in these northern forests.

Commentary
Wind turbines in Dane County, Wis.
Commentary

3 Steps Wisconsin Can Take To Meet Its Clean Power Plan Targets

New WRI analysis shows that Wisconsin can reduce its power sector emissions 21 percent below 2012 levels by 2030 just by following through on existing clean energy policies and making more efficient use of power plants. With a few additional steps, the state can far exceed the emissions reductions required by the Clean Power Plan.

Commentary
Poznan, Poland
Commentary

4 Surprising Ways Energy-Efficient Buildings Benefit Cities

New WRI analysis examines the vital role building efficiency can play in shaping sustainable cities of the future. When done right, energy-efficient buildings can generate several social, environmental and economic benefits.

Commentary
Morro do Cantagalo
Commentary

Climate Adaptation Gains Momentum, Both Politically and Practically

With record-breaking temperatures year after year and escalating extreme weather and climate impacts, the need for adaptation has long been apparent. Now it's finally moving beyond urgency into real action on the ground.

Commentary
Water plant in Flint, Mich.
Commentary

Environmental Justice and Democracy Failures at the Heart of Flint’s Water Crisis

The Flint water crisis an example of what can happen in the absence of transparent, inclusive and accountable water quality regulation and public service delivery. And unfortunately, it's just one community out of many throughout the world experiencing this problem.

Commentary
Pack horse
Commentary

Strengthening Indigenous Land Rights: 3 Challenges to “Free, Prior and Informed Consent”

Under international human rights laws, indigenous communities must be able to approve any development project that directly affects their lands or resources. There are a few reasons why this doesn't always happen in practice.

Commentary
Renewable energy in Enkenbach-Alsenborn
Commentary

Setting Science-Based Emissions Targets: 5 Companies Offer Lessons for Success

More than 150 companies have committed to align their emissions-reduction goals with what the science says is necessary to limit temperature rise to 2 degrees C (3.6 degrees F). Here's what some pioneering corporations are saying about setting science-based emissions targets.

Commentary

Most Read