Re - shaping th e futur e af ter COVI D -19
OPPORTUNITY FOR A GREENER AND MORE SUSTAINABLE ECONOMY
As the pandemic re-shapes the global
The threat of climate change has been
financial system, and as companies
gradually growing, with devastating
evaluate their diminishing returns,
effects for people and their livelihoods
investing in climate-friendly strategies
around the world. The COVID-19 crisis
could boost economic growth and create
presents an opportunity to learn the
new jobs.
lessons and reset ourselves on a more sustainable path and a new trajectory of
Most importantly, companies must place
sustainable employment.
sustainability at the heart of their business and investment strategies to avoid the
It has emphasised the importance of
pitfalls of a business-as-usual high-carbon
investing in areas such as technology and
path. It’s a business plan that’s positive for
innovation.
the environment and good for people and profitability.
It is time to align sustainable solutions with funding in a way that can transform the marketplace. Sustainable investment will boost economic growth and employment opportunities.
THE CLIMATE CRISIS OPENS UP ENORMOUS OPPORTUNITIES. This pandemic has served to highlight that the world’s most vulnerable citizens suffer the most during times of global crises. To repair lives after the pandemic requires billions of dollars to rebuild industries, supply chains, and create conditions for a resilient financial future. However, the global response to the COVID-19 outbreak also mirrors the approach that IFC uses to manage the climate crisis: that businesses, investors, and financial institutions must
Businesses should redirect finances into assets and investments that deliver concrete and measurable outcomes to rebuild economies to be more sustainable and resilient. For innovation and sustainable finance to flourish, the private sector must make the most of these opportunities.
PREPARE FOR THE NEW NORMAL From history, we learn that a global crisis creates a fundamental shift that affects consumer behaviour, government policies, and behavioural sectors for years to come. Countries must understand which part of their social, business, and political environment will change after the COVID-19 pandemic and invest accordingly to prepare for the new normal.
lead the way to a new, more sustainable economic model.
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