Research Institute for Sustainability Transitions (RIST)

RIST is an independent scientific organisation that conducts research to build capacity and stimulate agency for sustainable transitions in environmental and climate governance. Our approach enables us to ask new questions for environmental governance- not only for understanding how existing instruments and institutional responses contribute to a sustainable future, but also the inner workings of policy and practice. As such, RIST brings a new perspective to the thinking and practice of sustainable development by working with various partners to identify the most pressing sustainability challenges, mobilise resources, develop effective strategies, and drive innovation to manage climate change risks and impacts effectively. OUR ASPIRATIONS Vision: A future where institutions and communities in Sierra Leone and the sub-region adapt and respond better to the impacts of climate change because of the interventions of RIST and its partners. Mission: Promote a transformation towards a climate-resilient society by developing tools that enhance learning, build capacity, and stimulate agency for sustainable transitions in environmental and climate governance. HOW WE WORK • Conduct research to demonstrate the application of cutting-edge tools and approaches to addressing environmental and climate issues. • Use evidence from the field and practical experiments to inform learning and capacity building for cross-level and cross-sector interventions. • Share lessons from the evaluation of field-based interventions to promote the uptake of best practices and influence policies that deliver value for society. Cover photo by Terry Sunderland, CIFOR