International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM)

The Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM) was created in Paris on May 20, 1875 by a treaty, the Metre Convention. Since then, this scientific organization, which operates under the supervision of its member states, has constantly contributed to the improvement of physical measurements worldwide. Known to the general public as the guardian of the prototypes of the metre and the kilogram, the BIPM today coordinates world metrology and prepares the scientific advances of tomorrow. The evolution of metrology is stimulated and directed by the growing demands of industry, science and the general public for top-quality products that comply with international criteria and legislative and regulatory requirements. Metrology must also stimulate and respond to innovation, just as it must help to base measurements on sound, reliable scientific foundations in fields such as the environment and medicine. With the help and support of the international metrology community, the BIPM has met these requirements in the past, and is committed to doing so in the future.