UNEP/GRID-Geneva established the Global Sand Observatory initiative as a direct response to requests to identify knowledge gaps under the UNEA-4 Mineral Resource Resolution (UNEP/EA.4/Res.19). Sand resource governance is complex, spanning policy domains, stakeholders and sectors. Establishing consensus on key terms on the sand and sustainability topic is therefore key, and requires reviewing language, definitions and terminology. This will be important to initiate cross-sectoral and multi-actor discussions to define problems and update goals and key results in implementing policies and laws governing sand resources. This document is version 1 of what will be a living repository of terms and definitions being adopted as we explore themes in sand and sustainability at UNEP/GRID-Geneva following the UNEA-5 Minerals and Metals Management Resolution (UNEP/EA.5/Res.12). UNEP/GRID-Geneva shares this working research product openly in the spirit of open science, giving free access for all and seeking feedback and corrections.