The World Resources Institute promotes a vision of a world where human progress advances alongside the protection of the planet, ensuring that natural systems remain strong enough to sustain life and livelihoods well into the future.

To move toward this goal, the institute concentrates its efforts on a set of interconnected global priorities that are essential for reducing poverty, fostering inclusive economic growth, and safeguarding the environment.

In the area of climate, the organization works to strengthen the ability of communities and ecosystems to cope with climate-related challenges, while also encouraging a faster transition toward a low-emissions global economy. Its energy work focuses on expanding access to dependable and affordable clean energy, recognizing this as a foundation for equitable development.

Efforts around food systems aim to transform how food is produced and distributed, reducing environmental pressures while supporting fair incomes and ensuring that a growing global population can be sustainably fed. In parallel, initiatives related to forests emphasize the importance of protecting natural habitats, restoring degraded land, and addressing the links between deforestation, poverty, and climate change.

Water security is another critical focus, with work centered on understanding and managing risks related to water supply and quality. At the same time, urban initiatives seek to reimagine cities as inclusive and resilient spaces that enhance quality of life while minimizing environmental impact.

The institute also places strong emphasis on the health of the world’s oceans, promoting approaches that balance economic opportunities with the conservation and recovery of marine ecosystems.

These efforts are supported by key institutional pillars—including governance, business engagement, economic analysis, and finance—which collectively guide research, inform policy, and foster partnerships capable of delivering meaningful, long-term change at scale.