Defining Green Recovery

The first dialogue in the EMG Nexus Dialogue series Addressing COVID-19 for the Environment explored how the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic could become an opportunity to advance a greener, more inclusive and sustainable economy.

Bringing together experts from UNEP, UNFCCC, PAGE, ILO, UNDP, IMF and academia, the dialogue examined how to translate green recovery ambitions into concrete policies, investments and measurable environmental outcomes. Discussions highlighted opportunities to align economic recovery measures with the 2030 Agenda and the Paris Agreement, while addressing social inequalities and supporting vulnerable communities.

Participants emphasized the importance of investing in clean energy, sustainable transport, natural capital and green infrastructure, alongside strengthening institutional capacities and mobilizing sustainable finance. The dialogue also underscored the need for transparent monitoring of recovery spending, stronger international cooperation and innovative financing mechanisms to ensure that recovery efforts deliver lasting environmental and social benefits.

The dialogue highlighted the central message that economic recovery and environmental sustainability must advance together, with green and inclusive policies offering a pathway to building back better.