IFC's Sustainability Framework : From Policy Update to Implementation

International Finance Corporation (IFC s) sustainability framework, which articulates our commitment to sustainable development and transparency. The performance standards are a vital part of the framework and address a range of environmental and social risks and opportunities faced by the private sector. This project highlights key environmental and social issues of current and emerging importance, including climate change, business and human rights, supply chain management, and biodiversity and ecosystem services. It discusses implementation challenges in the financial as well as the non-financial sectors, and summarizes some of the lessons learned through IFC s recent review and update of its sustainability framework. This project summarizes some of the key emerging issues in sustainability, and highlights valuable lessons learned from experience in applying sustainability principles. The subsequent sections attempt to capture the results of the review and update process, from the challenges of addressing emerging issues in the performance standards to the practical application of these principles across sectors in diverse circumstances. It focuses on key themes arising from the recently completed consultation process, and then highlights challenges moving forward in implementing sustainability standards.