In this issue we focus on the informal economy – read our latest briefings, news of a forthcoming event and latest publications.

Shaping Sustainable Markets (SSM) is a flagship research initiative from the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED) helping to ensure that markets contribute to stronger livelihoods and more sustainable environments.

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News and events

Event: What place for the informal economy in green and inclusive growth?

Join us at an event in London in February 2016 on the informal economy. IIED, SSM, Green Economy Coalition (GEC) and other partners (tbc) are convening a high-level event to draw together the experience and expertise on informal economies across countries and sectors. By taking stock of the evidence on informal economies in diverse contexts and showcasing innovations in inclusive approaches to formalisation, we aim to inspire policymakers to work creatively with, rather than against, the interests of informal actors and set a new policy agenda for inclusive green growth and sustainable development.

We would love you to participate in the discussion – date to be confirmed but please register your interest by emailing Laura.Jenks@iied.org

What do street food, charcoal, gold, mobile phones and milk have in common?

The short answer is informality says Emma Blackmore in a recent blog. They are all often produced, processed or sold by people who operate outside formal rules and regulations. But these small markets add up to big business. IIED held an event which explored how informal markets are governed, an area neglected by policymakers, and summarised what we need now.

Publications and briefings

SSM has recently published a set of six briefing papers that showcase innovations – and challenges – in developing inclusive policy approaches for the informal economy. Produced with local partners, these papers offer case study-based evidence of processes of inclusive formalisation.

Spotlight on... MSC certification in developing countries

At an event organised by IIED, University College London (UCL), WWF, and the International Sustainability Unit On World Oceans Day, IIED launched, What’s the catch? Lessons from and prospects for Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification in developing countries. The report assesses barriers and drivers to certification for small-scale developing world fisheries, as well as the environmental and socio-economic impacts of MSC certification. It also outlines future research needed to understand what factors will allow more fisheries to overcome the challenges of achieving MSC certification.

If you are interested in funding Phase 2 of the research please do get in touch. Emma.blackmore@iied.org

Shaping Sustainable Markets at IIED

Shaping sustainable markets analyses a wide range of market governance mechanisms – from carbon labelling to diamond certification – that either operate, or impact on the poor in developing countries.

For a round-up of news and events on mechanisms from around the world see our latest update ‘In the news’. In the September edition, an article on Fairtrade Gold received some good attention, and was picked up by supporter groups around the world. Other recent articles have touched upon REDD+ funds to fight deforestation, and the mechanisms used by China in developing sustainable markets.

Updates are fortnightly, and cover debates on a range of mechanisms and standards such as Fairtrade, REDD+, the EITI and carbon pricing schemes.

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