About TheIRI
TheIRI is a trusted catalyst for transformative change. Employing evidence-based strategies, we operate both globally and in targeted regions to address fundamental human needs, preserve and rejuvenate natural ecosystems, stabilize the climate, and cultivate more resilient communities. Our mission is to fundamentally revolutionize global food production, energy usage, and urban planning, thereby crafting a brighter and more sustainable future for all. We engage with a wide range of issues that intersect people, nature, and the climate, driving comprehensive, enduring and transformative impact.
The core element of our theory of change is building trusted collaborations with governments, businesses, research institutions, civil society and leveraging their influential network to unite the right change-makers to collectively drive inspirational and sustainable solutions.
What we do
TheIRI stands as a catalyst for transformative change, trusted for its commitment to rigorous, research-driven solutions. With a global reach and a focused approach in specific countries, we address core human needs, restore and protect natural ecosystems, and drive climate stabilization to foster resilient communities. Our mission is to overhaul critical systems—how the world produces food, generates energy, and designs urban spaces—paving the way toward a sustainable and equitable future. Our efforts span across key areas that intersect with people, nature, and the climate, ensuring impactful, cross-sectoral solutions.
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Our Approach
Ensuring a Balanced Transition for People, Nature, and Climate
TheIRI is committed to securing a prosperous future that benefits people, the environment, and long-term economic stability. Our five-year strategy focuses on transforming how food and energy are produced and consumed, while also reimagining urban infrastructure for greater sustainability and resilience.
Today, the world confronts a complex set of challenges. Economic turmoil and widening inequality are affecting communities worldwide, while environmental pressures—from biodiversity loss to extreme weather events—demand urgent solutions. Yet, while change is underway, it must be accelerated to make a real, lasting difference.
Our vision is one where clean air, healthy cities, vibrant landscapes, nutritious food, and reliable, affordable energy are accessible to all. We see ecosystems flourishing and a climate that supports stability and growth.
With rigorous research and practical solutions, TheIRI works alongside key partners globally to bring about meaningful change. Using a "Assess it, Transform it, Amplify it" approach, we start by assessing the data, apply evidence-based strategies, and scale up proven successes across countries to generate global impact. This is the transition needed to meet the demands of today while paving the way for tomorrow.
1. Three Goals, One Vision: People, Nature, Climate
Goals
The United Nations’ 2030 Agenda sets a framework for global sustainable development.
It outlines 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 169 specific targets that have been agreed upon internationally. Each target is accompanied by one or more indicators to track progress and ensure compliance.
The SDGs are considered "integrated and indivisible," meaning that each goal is interconnected with the others and cannot be achieved independently.
Achieving the SDGs Within Planetary Limits:
Achieving the SDGs within planetary boundaries requires a balanced approach to the three dimensions of sustainable development—Economic, Social, and Environmental.
The goals being “integrated and indivisible”, the perspective highlights that human societies and economies exist within, and are supported by, the Biosphere.
The Biosphere provides the essential life-support systems that underpin all prosperity and development. The economy functions as a subsystem within society, which itself is part of the larger Biosphere, and should be designed to enable humanity to thrive within the limits of our planet’s resources.
Overview of India’s 2023-24 SDG Index Performance
India improved its SDG Index score to 71 out of 100, up from 66, demonstrating advancements in key areas like poverty reduction, economic growth, and clean energy.
Key Achievements
- Energy Access: Nearly universal electricity access, with 96% of households now having access to clean cooking fuel.
- Sanitation: All districts have achieved Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, indicating significant progress in sanitation and hygiene.
- Climate Action: Increased renewable energy capacity and better compliance with environmental standards have bolstered India’s climate efforts.
- Economic Growth: Enhanced tax participation and reduced extreme poverty reflect economic progress.
State Performance
- Top Performers: Kerala and Uttarakhand scored highest, with 79 points each.
- States with Most Gains: Punjab, Manipur, and West Bengal made notable improvements, reflecting targeted SDG initiatives.
- Low Performers: Bihar (57) and Jharkhand (62) scored lower, highlighting regional disparities in SDG progress.
Areas Needing Improvement
- Gender Equality: Minimal gains were seen in gender equality, indicating a need for increased focus and resources.
- Income Inequality: Limited progress in reducing income inequality, with further steps needed to address consumption gaps and socioeconomic divides.
- Food Security: Despite improvements, malnutrition and food security require more targeted interventions to meet the 2030 goals.
