Check out the latest enews, sent 12 August
Apply now for an Innovation Grant
IAIA is now accepting applications for its next round of Innovation Grants. Any current IAIA member, Section, Branch, or Affiliate may submit an application by 16 September. These small grants range from USD $2,000 to $5,000 and are meant to encourage innovative, short-term projects (12 months or less) to advance IAIA’s vision and mission.
Check out this recent blog post for examples of projects that have received past Innovation Grant funding.
Have an idea for a 2020 Innovation Grant? View the full guidelines and apply by 16 September.
IAIA21: Abstract submissions open 24 August
IAIA21, “Smartening Impact Assessment in Challenging Times,†will take place 18-21 May 2021 in Seville, Spain. Papers and posters from IAIA20 will be carried over, but we will also be accepting new presentations to replace those that have had to withdraw. Paper and poster abstract submissions will open 24 August.
Virtual symposium: Our Interconnected World
In this 5-8 October online symposium, experts will look at four trending topics in impact assessment with the underlying theme of the interconnectedness of all topics to human health and the wellbeing of the planet as a whole. Registration is now open. Join us and engage virtually with fellow participants as we explore health, resilience, climate change, and hot topics from the IAIA20 sessions.
Sponsorship opportunities at "Our Interconnected World"
Want to get your company’s name in front of impact assessment professionals around the world? Consider becoming a sponsor of IAIA's upcoming virtual symposium. Sponsorship includes complimentary registration(s) plus a variety of recognition and branding opportunities. Contact Bridget John for more information.
IAIA releases its first Position Statement
After decades of believing it could not express an official opinion on issues regarding public policy, IAIA is now poised to use its voice to assist its members, affected parties, decision makers, and the world. Read the blog post and the Statement (English | Spanish).
IAIA staff working remotely
Until further notice, IAIA staff continue to work remotely to provide uninterrupted member service to the greatest extent possible. Please email if you need to reach us, as we are not in the office to take phone calls.
Foundations of IA course offered
IAIA is offering its 12-week “Foundations of Impact Assessment†online course from 21 September through 11 December 2020. Participants engage in a dual-tracked course, with both a self-directed online platform and a mentorship component, with seasoned IA trainers. Applications for the course are open now through 11 September 2020 or until course fills.
No, the COVID-19 pandemic is not saving the environment
During the COVID-19 pandemic, photos have shown peacocks prancing around Mumbai, crystal clear waters in the canals of Venice, and an influx of bees and rare wildflowers in the U.K. These images are touted as evidence that the global coronavirus pandemic is helping the environment — but that's not the complete picture.
Investors launch climate plan to get to net zero emissions by 2050
An investor group managing more than $16 trillion launched the world's first step-by-step plan on 5 August to help pension funds and others align their portfolios with the Paris Agreement on climate change.
First global standard on tailings management launched
The Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (the Standard) has established the first global standard on tailings management that can be applied to existing and future tailings facilities, wherever they are and whoever operates them.
Student sues Australian government over the financial risks of climate change
A 23-year-old student is suing the Australian government over climate change, claiming that they failed to disclose the material risks of the climate crisis to those investing in government bonds. It is the first time a climate change case has been brought against a sovereign nation, according to experts.
Business risk and COVID-19 are pushing Asian financiers away from coal
In the past few months, perhaps spurred by economic concerns due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Japan’s three main private coal financing banks have announced plans to gradually reduce coal investments. In July, Japan’s government announced it would tighten public financing criteria for coal plants overseas, impacting state-funded entities such as the Japan Bank for International Cooperation.
The Tallinn Forum: Strategic Ideas Worth Sharing. 9-11 September 2020. Online event. (20% discount for IAIA members)
Cumulative Effects 2020: Advancing Project Development and Environmental Management with Cumulative Effects Assessment. 8 October 2020. Online event. (10% discount for IAIA members with code D10-343-343GX06)
ESDEIC: 2nd Green and Circular Economy, Sustainable Development and Energy International Conference. 26-27 November 2020. Online event.
