Will Remain as Distinguished Fellow and Senior Scientist

WINNIPEG — Dr. Arthur J. Hanson has announced he will step down from his position as President and Chief Executive Officer of the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), effective October 31, 1998. Jim MacNeill, Chairman of IISD's Board of Directors, stated that Dr. Hanson, who has served the Institute as President for the past seven years, will continue his full-time association with the Institute in the role of Distinguished Fellow and Senior Scientist.

Dr. Hanson says, "I have enjoyed my time as the chief administrator. It's been tremendously satisfying to help develop IISD to its position of leadership." Dr. Hanson commented further that he had been considering a change in his role for some time, based on his desire to return to the professional work that was the focus of his career prior to becoming President of IISD in 1992. "I am looking forward to applying my knowledge and experience to the sustainable development dimensions of key global issues, such as the current financial crisis."

Mr. MacNeill cited the outstanding contributions and exceptional commitment that Dr. Hanson has demonstrated while guiding IISD as President. "Dr. Hanson has brought the Institute from an idea in the mind of its founders, to a major international player on the key issues of sustainable development," Mr. MacNeill said. "Under his leadership, IISD has established vital programs in the fields of trade, business, monitoring, Great Plains agriculture, sustainable livelihoods and communications. IISD's Earth Negotiations Bulletin is today the premier source of information on all of the streams of international negotiations initiated at the Earth Summit, including climate change, biodiversity and forests. The Institute's award winning web sites are key sources of information worldwide on sustainable development."

Mr. MacNeill announced that the Board would be launching an international search for a new President. An Acting President will be appointed shortly and, in the interim, Dr. Bill Glanville, IISD's Vice President, will perform the duties of CEO.

IISD was established in 1990 with funding from the governments of Canada and Manitoba. The head office is in Winnipeg. IISD carries out sustainable development activities in Canada and worldwide, supported by more than forty funding sources. Following a recent review of organization and fund development and the development of a new strategic planning process, IISD is preparing to enter a new cycle of development.

For further information, please contact Jim MacNeill, Chairman of the Board, at 204-958-7707.