the International Bureau of Weights and Measures

The International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) is an international organization based in France that ensures measurement standards are consistent worldwide. It maintains and develops the global system of units (like the meter and kilogram) so that measurements are accurate and uniform across countries. This is essential for science, trade, and technology, allowing people and industries everywhere to rely on shared, precise measurements. The BIPM collaborates with national metrology institutes to keep measurement standards aligned, facilitating international cooperation and innovation.