Towards a Green Economy Pathways to Sustainable Development and Poverty Eradication - Conclusion

Moving towards a green economy has the potential to achieve sustainable development and eradicate poverty on an unprecedented scale, with speed and effectiveness. This potential derives from two concurrent changes. First, there is a changed playing field in which our world and the risks we face have materially changed. These changes require a fundamental rethinking of our approach to the economy. Second, there is a growing recognition that the natural environment forms the basis of our physical assets and must be managed as a source of growth, prosperity and well-being. As this report has argued, reallocating public and private investments – spurred through appropriate policy reforms and enabling conditions – is needed to build up or enhance natural capital such as forests, water, soil and fish stocks, which are particularly important for the rural poor. Green investments will enhance new sectors and technologies that will be the main sources of economic development and growth of the future: renewable energy technologies, resource and energy efficient buildings and equipment, low-carbon public transport systems, infrastructure for fuel efficient and clean energy vehicles, and waste management and recycling facilities. Complementary investments are required in human capital, including greening-related knowledge, management and technical skills to ensure a smooth transition to a more sustainable development pathway.