The Center for Sustainable Development (CSD) at Columbia University is an interdisciplinary research center that focuses on developing and promoting sustainable solutions to global challenges. The CSD works closely with governments, international organizations, and civil society to advance sustainable development policies and practices worldwide.

The CSD’s mission is to contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by conducting rigorous research, providing evidence-based policy advice, and fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders. The center’s research covers a wide range of topics, including poverty reduction, food security, health, education, gender equality, climate change, and environmental protection.

The CSD’s research projects are organized into several thematic areas, such as:

• Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN): The CSD hosts the SDSN, a global network of universities, research centers, and other institutions that work together to develop and promote solutions for sustainable development.
• Sustainable Development Innovations: The CSD supports the development and implementation of innovative solutions to sustainable development challenges, such as new technologies, business models, and policy approaches.
• Sustainable Development Data and Analytics: The CSD works to improve the availability and quality of data on sustainable development, and to develop new analytical tools and methods for measuring progress towards the SDGs.
• Sustainable Development Capacity Development: The CSD provides training and capacity-building support to governments, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to help them implement sustainable development policies and programs.

The CSD is led by a team of renowned experts in sustainable development, including faculty members from various departments and schools at Columbia University, as well as visiting scholars and practitioners from around the world. The center’s research is supported by a range of funding sources, including government agencies, foundations, and private sector partners.

Through its research, policy advice, and capacity-building activities, the CSD aims to contribute to the global effort to achieve sustainable development and to create a more equitable, prosperous, and environmentally sustainable world.

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