For thousands of years, communities have existed in harmony with nature

IEG is a member-based organization of Indigenous Peoples (IPs), Local Communities (LCs), and Afro-Descendant peoples (ADs) committed to promoting conditions for trust, and elevating communities and nature-based rights and approaches in present-day nature markets for the benefit of future generations and nature itself.

The IEG mission is to promote ethical, equitable, and sustainable stewardship of nature through robust global, regional, and participatory governance frameworks.


IEG Chair

Pledge image

In the race to save nature, time is our scarcest asset

The 8 billion hour pledge is a flagship IEG campaign aligned with Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework 2030 Targets. Drawing from key areas of Member expertise and IEG representation in the 7 socio-cultural regions of the world, the campaign aims to mobilize 8 billion hours of verified work for nature by 31 Dec, 2030.

8 billion hours is one hour for every human supported by Mother Earth. As time is the scarcest resource in the race to protect natural ecosystems, the campaign is organized around hours of work. Recognizing Indigenous Peoples, Local Communities and Afro-Descendant peoples as rights-holders and vital role-players in nature markets, makes it possible to mobilize essential resources. IEG will create a registry for members to record verified time (target + actual) towards the 8 BH Pledge.

In collaboration with IEG partners, the 8BH Pledge will be launched at COP30 Belem in November this year. Along with live Pilot Projects, a Launch Fund Budget will be announced. Budget will be linked to 4 key interdependent programmes:

  • IEG Governance Establishment
  • Indigenous Data Governance Framework Development
  • Pilot Project Pipeline
  • Indigenous-Led Digital Public Infrastructure Extension Pilot

Our Work

IEG’s work is grounded in a rights-based approach that empowers communities to not only participate, but also lead in nature markets. IEG empowers communities by advising on inclusive governance frameworks that support Indigenous data sovereignty, build community capacity to steward nature and ensure fair value for time and knowledge.

IEG secures funding for Indigenous Peoples’, Local Communities’ and Afro-Descendant peoples’ led projects, exercising an oversight role to ensure benefits reach stewards of nature at grassroots level. Showcasing community market best practice and setting valuation standards, IEG connects community priorities with the goals of responsible investors and funders, aligning positive outcomes for nature and people with capital that seeks meaningful, lasting impact.

Accounting for time

Accounting for time

Accounting for time

Member governance systems

Accounting for time

Community market leadership

Accounting for time

Capacity building

Accounting for time

Human and nature rights

Accounting for time

Community data sovereignty and IP

Accounting for time

Standards valuation

Governance

IEG’s governance framework is designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and inclusive participation across all levels of the organization. It is comprised
of eight core governance structures, each with its own clearly defined mandates, responsibilities, and governance principles. The full IEG Governance Framework is available here.

The Founding Assembly is a democratically elected body consisting of a Chair and six Vice-Chairs, representing the seven socio-cultural regions. It approves IEG core statutes and governance principles. Tasked with guiding safe equitable member participation in nature markets, it oversees strategy, sets foundational standards, approves governance and data policies, and protects members’ rights and interests. The Assembly meets biannually, guiding foundational direction and electing the initial Global Board of Trustees.

The General Assembly is made up of representatives from all member organizations and serves as a key decision-making body. It approves IEG strategic plans, financial reports, and leadership nominations, while reviewing regional inputs. Meeting twice a year, it ensures member accountability and organizational alignment.

The Global Board of Trustees provides strategic leadership and fiduciary oversight for IEG. Elected by the General Assembly, it ensures the implementation of approved plans, upholds governance principles, and stewards organizational resources. The Board operates independently to safeguard the mission and long-term sustainability of IEG.

Led by the Secretary-General, the General Secretariat is responsible for day-to-day management and coordination across all IEG governance bodies. It supports the implementation of strategic decisions, facilitates communication among members, and ensures compliance with IEG policies. As the organization’s operational core, it ensures continuity, accountability, and alignment with governance mandates.

The Council is a representative body nominated by IEG membership organizations across each socio-cultural region. Initially appointed by the Founding Assembly, Council members are later elected by regional nominations submitted to the General Assembly. The Council ensures that diverse member perspectives are reflected in organizational decision-making.

The IEG Data Trust is an independent legal entity that ensures transparent, rights-based data governance aligned with CARE, FAIR, and TRUST principles. Overseen by a Data Governance Board with regional representation, it manages data policies, supports secure digital access, and promotes fair benefit-sharing for member organizations. The Trust also provides technical assistance and safeguards compliance with data protection, ethical standards, and human and nature rights across all regions.

The Office of the Membership Conduct Ombudsperson serves as an independent authority responsible for upholding the Member Code of Conduct and resolving internal disputes. Appointed by the Founding Assembly, the Ombudsperson investigates complaints, reviews governance concerns, and offers impartial recommendations to relevant bodies. By ensuring fairness and accountability, the office helps maintain trust and integrity within the organization.

The Regional Hubs represent the seven socio-cultural regions and coordinate among member organizations within their respective regions. Led by Regional Coordinators who are nominated by regional members and approved by the General Assembly, they support capacity-building and communication within the region, while ensuring regional priorities inform global governance. Through regular reporting and annual meetings, Regional Hubs align local action with IEG’s broader strategies and policies.