We welcome you to this issue of Research Features magazine. With researchers featured from institutions around the world there is a truly global feel to this issue.

We catch up with ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability, a global network of subnational governments active in more than 100 countries. Their aim? To influence sustainability policy and invigorate local action for low-emission development. Rohit Sen, ICLEI’s Head of Climate & Energy Action, explains why a network like this works so well, and how they are building a roadmap to sustainable success.

Research Features also talks to Robert Atkinson, founder and president of US-based think tank, the Information Technology & Innovation Foundation, to learn more about their goals and achievements. ITIF helps provide an expert perspective that policymakers need to capitalise on technological opportunities, overcome challenges and avoid pitfalls.

It’s a real pleasure to share the exciting research in this issue and learn more about how the researchers featured are working to make a difference to our world.