Green approaches to Covid-19 recovery: Policy note for parliamentarians

Abstract

The consequences of COVID-19 and efforts to contain it have led to one of the most serious recessions in recent history, characterized by, among others, a decline in economic growth, decreased trade, low business revenues and massive layoffs. Projections indicate that, in the next two years, the global economy is expected to lose nearly US$ 8.5 trillion in economic output due to the pandemic.3 Understandably, the immediate focus for governments is economic recovery. There is a link between habitat loss, environmental degradation and climate change on the one hand and, on the other, the emergence of novel zoonotic diseases that are transmitted between animals and humans, such as coronaviruses.4 This link calls for a sound environmental response to the pandemic.5 For the economic recovery to be effective and long lasting, it will need to reflect coherently all dimensions of sustainable development, including the environmental pillar. It will also need to address its effects on the most vulnerable, including women, children, persons with disabilities and marginalized communities. There is an urgent need for a socially inclusive COVID-19 recovery that is in line with climate action and environmental protection. Parliamentarians are key players in the immediate and long-term recovery efforts, given their power to enact laws and oversee government policy.6 While legislation and policy-making are key drivers for economic recovery, they are also important factors for addressing the environmental impacts related to COVID-19. Legislative measures taken now will have long-term effects on the planet’s future.7 Therefore, parliamentarians have a critical role to play in ensuring economic recovery efforts are in line with environmental and development goals, and in seizing the opportunity to “build back better”.