Sustainable Economic Growth

Sustainable economic growth asks how countries, cities, and communities can raise living standards while managing climate risks, environmental pressures, inequality, and long-term development challenges. This research area brings together work on climate change, adaptation, resilience, sustainable development, urbanization, and the policies that support inclusive and durable growth.

Questions We Explore

How can economies grow while reducing environmental and climate risks? What policies support resilience and adaptation in vulnerable communities? How do climate change and natural disasters affect development, cities, firms, and households? How can governments and institutions promote growth that is sustainable, inclusive, and responsive to local conditions?

Topics in This Area

  • Sustainable Development
  • Climate Change
  • Climate Adaptation
  • Resilience
  • Natural Disasters
  • Urbanization
  • Sustainable Cities
  • Inclusive Growth
  • Environmental Policy
  • Regional Development

Related IIEP Work

This research area connects with IIEP programming on climate change and sustainable cities, international development, and the economics of sustainable development. It also connects closely with the Local Sustainable Governance Lab, which examines how local governments respond to climate and sustainability challenges. Related programs include the Economics of Sustainable Development Conference with partners including the World Bank, as well as workshops and seminars on climate mitigation, resilience, adaptation, and sustainable urban development.

Susan Aaronson headshot
Susan Aaronson

Research Professor

 

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Senay Agca

Professor of Finance and Chief Diversity Officer

 

Leah Brooks headshot
Leah Brooks

Professor of Public Policy

 

Remi Jedwab headshot
Remi Jedwab

Professor of Economics and International Affairs; Director of the Institute for International Economic Policy

 

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Moses Kansanga

Associate Professor of Geography and International Affairs

 

Nina Kelsey headshot
Nina Kelsey

Associate Professor of Public Policy and International Affairs

 

Robert Orttung headshot
Robert W Orttung

Research Professor of International Affairs; Director of Research, Sustainable GW

 

David Rain headshot
David Rain

Associate Professor of Geography and International Affairs

 

Tara Sinclair headshot
Tara Sinclair

Professor of Economics and International Affairs

 

David Szakonyi headshot
David Szakonyi

Associate Professor of Political Science