What is the Global Infrastructure Basel Foundation (GIB)?
Sustainable infrastructure is expected to outperform conventional infrastructure by 10–20% under different climate scenarios. The Global Infrastructure Basel Foundation (GIB) is a Swiss non-profit based in Basel, reshaping the future of infrastructure on a global scale. They champion innovative, nature-based, and sustainability-driven solutions that go beyond just addressing climate change—laying the foundation for a resilient, greener world for generations to come. It’s about more than infrastructure; it’s about creating lasting impact.
Main Benefits and Key Achievements
GIB’s journey is marked by milestones that highlight its commitment and impact:
- 2010: GIB was founded with the goal to advance sustainable, resilient, and regenerative infrastructure.
- 2015: Developed the SuRe® Standard, a globally recognised tool integrating sustainability and resilience into infrastructure development. This provides a common language for project developers, financiers, and public sector institutions to align on best practices. So far, 30 infrastructure projects worth USD 20 billion have been assessed using the SuRe® Standard.
- 2021: Launched the first year of the S²Cities Programme, piloting it in two cities in the Global South. This initiative engages local governments, institutions, the private sector, community actors, and young people to ideate and implement solutions for improving youth safety and well-being in urban environments.
- 2023: Took on the role of FAST-Infra Label Secretariat to refine and maintain the Label framework and criteria. This enables alignment with existing standards and initiatives, while engaging market participants in a robust and transparent governance process.
Innovative Approaches to Infrastructure
GIB’s strategic pillars and innovative approaches create holistic pathways that accelerate the mainstream transition toward sustainable, resilient, and regenerative infrastructure. They bring together key actors, bridging the gap between on-the-ground infrastructure development and international discourse. This is crucial to shifting the global agenda and ensuring solutions have long-term impact. It’s about connecting dots and making sure everyone’s on the same page.
Nature-Based and Sustainability-Driven Solutions
One of GIB’s standout commitments is championing nature-based green solutions that integrate infrastructure with ecosystems. This approach enhances resilience while delivering lasting environmental and social benefits. It’s not just about building; it’s about building smartly, with nature as a partner. The goal? Safer cities, thriving ecosystems, and improved quality of life—especially for the most vulnerable communities.
Collaborative Efforts and Stakeholder Engagement
Working hand-in-hand with key stakeholders, GIB demonstrates that investing in sustainable and resilient infrastructure pays off. Their tailored, holistic solutions help stakeholders navigate the complexities of sustainable infrastructure. By combining expertise, resources, and innovative solutions, they co-create impactful strategies that address global challenges, accelerate investment, and drive long-term environmental, social, and economic benefits. It’s a team effort, and every voice counts.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 15: Life on Land
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Driving the Future of Infrastructure
At its core, GIB is about more than just infrastructure projects—it’s about creating a resilient, greener world for generations to come. By fostering participatory approaches and empowering future generations, GIB is setting the stage for a future where infrastructure and ecosystems coexist harmoniously. The foundation’s work is a testament to what’s possible when innovation meets commitment, and when local action aligns with global vision. The future is sustainable, and GIB is helping to build it—one project at a time.
