Eradicating Poverty through an Inclusive Green Economy (Post - 2015 Agenda)
Profound changes in economic and financial globalization, rapid urbanization of poverty, increasing inequality within nations and ever more visible threats to human development and security from degradation of natural capital and living environment call for a paradigm shift in planning for sustainable development. Actions by nations to advance a green economy (sometimes referred to as ecological civilization; or green, inclusive, low carbon economy; or climate resilient economy; or a circular economy) convey a growing realization that our US$70 trillion global economy needs a refit. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) defines a green economy as one that results in “improved human well-being and social equity, while significantly reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities”. The development path should maintain, enhance and, where necessary, rebuild natural capital as a critical economic asset and as a source of public benefits. Human rights and the environment are inextricably linked – through the right of every citizen to a clean, healthy and productive environment.
- Author/Editor
- United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
- Publishing Year
- 2015
Ending poverty can be achieved if sustainable economic growth, social protection, and environmental health and stewardship are considered together. Giving a proper value to natural capital and ecosystem services, protecting, restoring and enhancing natural assets, ensuring equitable access to natural resources and sustainably-derived basic services, promoting green and innovative fiscal policies and investments, and tracking progress through new indicators should be part of the drive towards eradicating poverty irreversibly through smart, sustainable and inclusive growth.
