Equity is defined as ensuring fairness in the distribution of resources, opportunities, and benefits. Equity requires that all members of society, including future generations, have access to the same rights and opportunities to maintain a decent quality of life. Equity is fundamental to sustainability; without equity, it is not possible to effectively and sustainably uphold human rights, improve livelihoods, or protect the environment.

ISEAL has developed a conceptual framework to structure thinking about equity and how development and business strategies can influence equitable outcomes. The framework builds on existing research around equity.