Recovery Policies and Actions

San Jose, California

12 March 2021

San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo announced a proposal to create a new Resilience Corps for the city. The initiative, approved by City Council on March 16th, will help the city recover from COVID-19, provide employment opportunities for vulnerable populations, as well as effectively and equitably combat climate change: 

“High pandemic-induced unemployment rates disproportionately afflict high-poverty neighborhoods. The Resilience Corps will create more than 500 jobs primarily––but not exclusively––for young adults focusing on five critical tasks of community resilience: pandemic response, environmental resilience, overcoming the learning loss of struggling students, economic recovery, and disaster preparedness.  

“Among the many crises wrought by the events of the last year, an entire generation of young adults have grappled with dimming life prospects under the crushing weight of poverty and extended unemployment, at a rate double that of the rest of our workforce,” said Mayor Sam Liccardo. “These same young people have the energy and talent to help us tackle many of our greatest challenges–from the pandemic to climate change to widening gaps in educational and economic outcomes.  In the Resilience Corps, need meets opportunity.”    

The Resilience Corps seeks to support unemployed and underemployed young adults through living-wage employment and work experience opportunities. San Jose has many potential jobs doing critically important work to create a more climate-smart and resilient future for our city; allowing these youth to get paychecks into pockets while hugely benefitting our community at large. 

…

Funding will include a FEMA 100% reimbursement for pandemic-related jobs, additionally,  it will utilize up to $20 million in federal relief dollars to create more than 500 job placements with community partners.”

Read the full press release.

Cambridge, United Kingdom

12 March 2021

The Cambridge City Council approved a 2020-2021 budget on February 25th aimed at supporting a green and inclusive transformation for the city as it recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic. As reported by the Cambridge Network, details on how funds will be spent include:

“Tackling poverty and inequality, and helping people in greatest need including:

• Further preventing homelessness and rough sleeping 
• Working with the Community Food Hub to deliver unused and donated food to voluntary groups 
• Funding groups that help the most vulnerable residents 
• Continuing to fund cultural activities which promote community cohesion 
• Investing in services for children, young people and families 

Taking action on climate change, biodiversity and the environment, including: 

• Leading the city on reducing carbon emissions and increasing biodiversity, 
• Investing further in energy efficiency and generation projects 
• Managing streets and open spaces for the benefit of wildlife and people 
• Creating an additional Climate Change Officer post 
• Installing new electric vehicle charging points and replacing council vehicles with electric versions where possible 
• Investing in carbon reduction measures at swimming pools, the council’s biggest energy users “

Read the full Cambridge Network article.

Nairobi, Kenya

14 August 2020

The capital city hopes to tackle the triple challenges of coronavirus, climate change, and poverty/homelessness by expanding green infrastructure projects and efforts. One project in Michuki Memorial Park provides full-time employment for about 200 former park residents; the wages have allowed some, like Peter Njeru, to secure housing for themselves and their family. As reported by:

A government effort to better protect and restore parks in the city – particularly along the Nairobi River – is now having a significant payoff, not just in jobs but in green spaces to beat the heat and cope with virus restrictions, backers say.The effort is part of a broader push to expand green infrastructure in Kenya’s capital, including ensuring widened road corridors have good sidewalks and drainage to prevent flooding, as well as more trees.’ – CNBC

Burlington, Vermont, USA

27 June 2020

The Burlington Electric Department, a municipal utility, put forth Net Zero Energy programs on April 22nd 2020 for regulatory approval in what it calls a ‘Green Stimulus’. The plan was subsequently approved; elements include:

1. Weatherization
2. Cold-climate heat pump incentives
3. Electric Vehicle incentives
4. Cash for Inefficient Residential Appliances
5. Zero-interest loans with on-bill financing of energy efficiency projects
6. Failed heating and cooling systems replacement

The Net Zero programs have an equity component as they have incentives for low– to moderate– income customers, including: covering part or all of eligible electric energy efficiency upgrades for affordable housing provider; making e-bikes available to low-income customers for commuting to work; and loans for home energy upgrades with interest rates based on household income, just to name a few.

See more details on the Burlington Electric Department website.

Kampala, Uganda

3 June 2020

Active transportation is finally flourishing in Kampala. While the capital city adopted a ‘Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) Policy’ to promote cycling and walking in 2012, the policy wasn’t fully embraced until the government banned public and private transportation in an attempt to curb the spread of COVID-19. Advocates note the multiple benefits of high-quality cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, including lower emissions, cleaner air, and improved equity: 

“After years of promoting walking and cycling through Open Street Events and pilot bike corridors, the Kampala Capital City Authority recently completed the first comprehensive and integrated walking and cycling corridor covering about 3.5 kilometres clearly demarcated. This is also expected to boost small businesses with shops and restaurants along the route attracting pedestrians and cyclists.

 “Kampala and similar other cities have a window of opportunity to take forward these kind of initiatives,” said Stefanie Holzwarth, UN-Habitat’s Associate Mobility Expert and a cycling enthusiast. “They can create a more resilient mobility system that is able to address the challenges of climate change, air pollution and road safety while also promoting livelihoods for the poor.” 

Read more about the initiative here.

Medellin, Colombia

26 May 2020

Medellin, Colombia’s second largest city, is focusing on transportation as a way to restart its economy after the pandemic as well as cut emissions by as much as 20% by 2030.

“City officials say they will expand bike lanes by almost 50% within three years, to 145 kilometres, and more than double the number of interconnected public transport lines, including overland trains, trams and cable car lines, to 26 by 2030. 

As well, the city is working to provide 50,000 electric bikes that residents can rent cheaply – and it aims to electrify all public transport by the end of the decade.”

In addition to the multiple climate co-benefits, many of the transportation policies are focused on improving public transportation links between the hillside ‘slums’ and the economic opportunities in the bustling urban center:

“Today the virus is hitting low-income sectors, precisely those that were hard hit by the violence of the 80’s and 90’s. And it’s for this reason we understand this as an urgent call for a new transformation,” Quintero said.- Thomas Reuters

Boston, Massachusetts, USA

12 May 2020

“During a Boston City Council hearing Tuesday night, Boston’s top transportation planner said the city is preparing to expand sidewalks into driving lanes in certain places “later this month” in order to make more space for pedestrians and cyclists.

“It’s something that the mayor has asked us to start implementing as soon as possible,” Vineet Gupta, the director of planning for the city transportation department, said during the teleconference hearing.” – Boston Globe

Additionally, officials in the Boston suburb of Brookline “have approved a plan to close motor vehicle lanes on four major streets in order to give people adequate space for social distancing while walking to essential jobs and services in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic,” as reported on April 8th by Street Blog Mass

Charlotte, North Carolina USA

9 May 2020

The Charlotte Department of Transportation adopted a new “Shared Streets” initiative:

“The COVID-19 pandemic is changing many aspects of how we live, move about our cities, and get essential physical activity. The City of Charlotte is launching Charlotte Shared Streets to support social distancing and pedestrian/bicycle safety amidst this new way of life. Shared Streets is intended to support outdoor exercise; create a safer environment for people walking, wheelchair rolling, biking, skateboarding, and rollerblading…” 

Read more about the program on the City of Charlotte website.

Seattle, Washington, USA

7 May 2020

Seattle’s initial response to the coronavirus pandemic included temporarily closing 20 miles of streets to allow pedestrians and cyclists more room to move around. Those street closures are now set to become permanent, according to the Office of the Mayor:

‘Mayor Jenny A. Durkan announced today that at least 20 miles of Stay Healthy Streets will become permanent and the construction of bike infrastructure will be accelerated in 2020…

“We are in a marathon and not a sprint in our fight against COVID-19. As we assess how to make the changes that have kept us safe and healthy sustainable for the long term, we must ensure Seattle is rebuilding better than before. Safe and Healthy Streets are an important tool for families in our neighborhoods to get outside, get some exercise and enjoy the nice weather. Over the long term, these streets will become treasured assets in our neighborhoods,” said Mayor Durkan…

“Just like we must each adapt to a new normal going forward, so, too, must our city and the ways in which we get around. That is why we’re announcing a nimble, creative approach towards rapidly investing in a network of places for people walking and people biking of all ages and abilities and thinking differently about our traffic signals that make pedestrians a greater priority. Despite the many challenges we face, 2020 will remain a year of thoughtful, forward progress as we build a safer, more livable Seattle for all,” said Sam Zimbabwe, Seattle Department of Transportation Director.’

Read the full statement here.

Paris, France

29 April 2020

Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo plans to expand a pre-pandemic initiative to decrease the use of cars within the city. While the rate of driving in Paris has steadily decreased for the last thirty years, Hidalgo sees an opportunity to emphasize recovery plans that further transition the city towards alternative modes of transportation. 

“I say in all firmness that it is out of the question that we allow ourselves to be invaded by cars, and by pollution,” she said. “It will make the health crisis worse. Pollution is already in itself a health crisis and a danger — and pollution joined up with coronavirus is a particularly dangerous cocktail. So it’s out of the question to think that arriving in the heart of the city by car is any sort of solution, when it could actually aggravate the situation.” – Anne Hidalgo as quoted by City Lab

France’s lockdown will be eased from May 11, but the closure of Rue de Rivoli to cars is planned to last throughout the summer, and could then be made permanent. The street is the Parisian equivalent of London’s Oxford Street or New York City’s Fifth Avenue. – Forbes

Vilnius, Lithuania

28 April 2020

Remigijus Šimašius, mayor of Lithuania’s capital city Vilnius, announced vehicle restrictions in 18 public spaces in order to allow restaurants and cafes to expand their outdoor seating. The number of public spaces reserved for open air dining will grow throughout the summer. So far more than 160 restaurant owners have applied for the opportunity to expand their outdoor seating space. 

“Plazas, squares, streets – nearby cafes will be allowed to set up outdoor tables free of charge this season and thus conduct their activities during quarantine,” said Remigijus Šimašius. Public safety remained the city’s top priority, the mayor said, but the measure should help cafes to “open up, work, retain jobs and keep Vilnius alive”. – The Guardian

Oakland, California, USA

10 April 2020

Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf passed an emergency measure, “Oakland Slow Streets,” to temporarily banish cars from 74 miles of residential streets.

“Because of the reduction in car traffic we will be closing off a number of streets, so that bicyclists and pedestrians can spread out and exercise and take in fresh air safely,” Schaaf said during a virtual town hall Thursday evening.  – San Francisco Chronicle

The change is mostly a firm psychological nudge, said Warren Logan, the director of mobility policy and interagency relations in the Oakland mayor’s office. Confronted by a pair of traffic signs and a barricade blocking one lane, drivers now have to think twice about entering these streets. Many will consider taking a different route. And all will hopefully drive more mindfully when they enter a slow-streets zone. – City Lab

Amsterdam, The Netherlands 

Embracing the “Doughnut Model” to balance economics, needs of people and the needs of nature in the COVID-19 recovery.

“The city of Amsterdam this week officially decided to embrace what has come to be known as “The Doughnut Model,” a framework for sustainable development created by Oxford University economist Kate Raworth. In adopting this model, which attempts to balance the needs of people without harming the environment, the city hopes to emerge from the cloud of Covid-19 elbows out, with new purpose.” MSN News 9 April 2020

“…the model will be formally embraced by the municipality of Amsterdam as the starting point for public policy decisions, the first city in the world to make such a commitment.” The Guardian 8 April 2020

Guam, United States

7 October 2020

The Guam Green Growth (G3) initiative, while first announced prior to COVID-19, was launched in September 2020. The onset of the global pandemic inspired reconvening of the working groups, the securing of additional funds, and the creation of new programs. Therefore, the formally adopted G3 framework will support a green recovery from COVID-19, while also ensuring a more sustainable and equitable economy for Guam in decades to come. 

According to reporting from the Pacific Island Times:

“G3 is creating a circular economy makerspace and innovation hub at the Chamorro Village where entrepreneurs will be able to gather…with tools and equipment to transform waste products into marketable products. In a time of business closures and rising unemployment [due to COVID-19], G3 will give our people an ownership role in the new green economy and the transition toward a cleaner, more sustainable Guam,” [Lt. Governor Joshua F.] Tenorio said.

The G3 Action Framework was developed by the G3 Working Group, composed of 97 members representing government agencies, academia, nonprofits, businesses, and youth.

The framework is a compilation of hundreds of goals and objectives focused on five categories of action—1) Healthy and Prosperous Communities; 2) Educated, Capable, and Compassionate Island; 3) Sustainable Homes, Utilities, and Transportation; 4) Thriving Natural Resources; and 5) Sustainable Alliances. Cross-cutting elements are incorporated into all categories—climate action, resilience, public engagement, policy, and the core CHamoru values of respect, cooperation, and treating others with kindness, generosity, and dignity.”

Read more about the program on the University of Guam’s website.

Bali, Indonesia

1 September 2020

The Indonesian island of Bali, a world-renowned vacation destination, has been especially hard hit by the effects of COVID-19, most notably the global halt in travel. A brand new start-up, Bali Startup Small and Medium Enterprises One-Stop-Shop (BSSME), was established in order to assist a green recovery in Bali. BSSME, in alignment with the Indonesian government, aims to encourage sustainable foreign investment while also channeling funds to the island’s most vulnerable communities.

According to reporting by Business Insider: 

“BSSME aims to attract sustainable investment to support the economic recovery of Bali by offering foreign investors a new fast-track service to establish a foreign investment company (PMA) by the next business day.

BSSME Spokeswoman, Intan Westlake said, “Our mission is to make Bali more conducive to foreign investment, to collaborate with the local and national government, so we can create more sustainable investment opportunities for Bali, for its people and environment.”

…

BSSME established its own social impact fund in August 2020, focusing on supporting indigenous rural women living in low-income areas on the island. These include women who have children, and those who are widows or divorcees. A collaboration was established with the IDEP Foundation Bali and they are now marching towards impacting the first 100 families.”

New York, USA

23 June 2020

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), in partnership with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), set forth a suite of new and expanded supports for disadvantaged communities to tackle environmental justice while also aiding economic recovery from the coronavirus. 

Supports include nearly $11 million dedicated to increasing solar access for underserved New Yorkers and the formation of a Climate Justice Working Group:

DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos, Climate Action Council Co-Chair said, “The Climate Justice Working Group will work to ensure that all of New York’s communities are represented in planning for and implementing the State’s transition to a cleaner energy future, and that all New Yorkers benefit from investments and opportunities provided by this historic transition. As co-chair of the Climate Action Council, I am committed to ensuring healthy environments for all and that cannot be accomplished without acknowledging that many communities have been disproportionately impacted by environmental pollution. The Climate Justice Working Group will support the Council’s efforts to builder a greener, healthier future for all New Yorkers.”

Read the full NYSERDA announcement.

Minnesota, USA

9 June 2020

One of the many negative impacts of the coronavirus pandemic is increased levels of hunger and food insecurity, especially for Indigenous communities. Based in Minneapolis, Dream of Wild Health is an Indigenous-lead nonprofit that emphasizes Indigenous food sovereignty across the state’s Native American population. In order to better serve its constituents during the pandemic, Dream of Wild Health expanded its original farm in Hugo, Minnesota from 10-acres to 30. 

“In light of the pandemic and the group’s recent land acquisition, this year Dream of Wild Health may at least triple the amount of food it provides to charitable organizations and restaurants, including the Gatherings Cafe at the Minneapolis American Indian Center (MAIC), which has been delivering meals to Native seniors during the pandemic.”

Read more about the Dream of WIld Health’s history and impact here.

Connecticut, USA

12 May 2020

Governor Ned Lamont signed Executive Order No.7MM to expedite the process of restaurants getting approval to expand outdoor dining into public space:

“Gov. Ned Lamont has removed red tape for restaurateurs and retailers looking to pivot to expanded outdoor sales as the state’s economy gradually reopens May 20 amid the COVID-19 pandemic.The governor signed an executive order Tuesday… that empowers towns and cities to expedite zoning changes or ordinances for small businesses seeking to bring their operations outdoors.” – Hartford Business Journal

New Jersey, USA

17 April 2020

A coalition of New Jersey state agencies is collaborating on a ‘strategic funding plan’ to direct proceeds from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) towards measures that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

“New Jersey plans to invest an estimated $80 million each year in programs that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, drive forward projects that boost clean energy and create jobs, protect the health of residents in environmental justice communities and increase the resiliency of coastal communities.” 

Equity is featured throughout the Strategic Funding Plan, most notably environmental justice:

“Carbon emissions are not confined by state borders, and that’s why this regional collaboration is so critical. While climate change affects us universally, some communities feel those impacts harder than others. I’m especially proud that this strategic plan places special focus on environmental justice communities,” said NJBPU President Joseph L. Fiordaliso. “This plan will put significant resources toward electrifying transportation, especially for low- to moderate-income residents, an area where we can make the broadest, fastest progress on cutting air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions. With the RGGI Strategic Funding Plan, we will continue to take measurable steps to remediate past environmental inequities and ensure all New Jersey residents can participate in and benefit from New Jersey’s transition to a clean energy future.” 

Read the full statement here.

Jordan

14 June 2021

The World Bank announced the approval of  US$500 million in funding for a COVID-19 recovery program in Jordan. The ‘Inclusive, Transparent and Climate Responsive Investments Program-for-Results’ contains extraordinary climate and social protection measures that emphasize green infrastructure, job creation, gender equity, and more:

“Jordan is ready to embark on a climate-responsive recovery and a new growth trajectory. Climate risks due to water scarcity, rising temperatures, and extreme weather present new opportunities for Jordan to become more resource-efficient and more competitive. Investing in greening of infrastructure and services creates jobs and economic value. Jordan’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) under the Paris Agreement on climate change provides a platform to identify opportunities that also benefit the society.

The Program also helps Jordan to include gender-informed assessments in investment design and policy formulation. This is important as less than 15% of Jordanian women in the country were in the labor force in 2019, one of the lowest rates in the world, marking an enormous untapped potential for the economy and society.

…

The Program will also promote inclusion and transparency in its implementation. The PforR includes enhanced public consultation processes and supports greater accessibility of data to deliver more citizen-informed and better results. The PforR will institutionalize public consultation in the preparation of large capital projects to ensure that public investment promotes social inclusion and caters to the needs of citizens, including marginalized people and those with disabilities. The public will also be consulted during implementation and ex-post evaluation.”

Read the full press release. 

Italy

9 February 2021

Italy’s Council of Ministers approved a €210 billion National Recovery and Resilience Plan (RPR) in mid-January using funds from the European Union’s Next Generation program. The RPR contains six priority areas, called missions. While all six will contribute to the transformation of Italy into a more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient country, two are especially noteworthy for their potential impact:

The Green Revolution and Ecological Transition will receive nearly a third of total funding. Details on how the missions funding will be allocated include:

• €30 billion for energy efficiency and requalification of buildings, with “a focus on schools, hospitals, and social housing”
• €18 billion for energy transition and sustainable local mobility, “with a view to increasing the share of energy produced from renewables”
• €15 billion for the protection and enhancement of land and water resources
• €7 billion for the green business and circular economy

About 15% of funds will be allocated to the Infrastructure for sustainable mobility mission. Components include:

• €28.3 billion for High-Speed Rail and Road Maintenance 4, “the aim of improving the circulation of citizens and goods and rendering it more sustainable”
• €3.5 billion for intermodality and integrated logistics, “for improving the competitiveness and environmental sustainability of the port system”

Read the Ministry of Economy and Finance’s full statement.

Poland

14 January 2021

Poland’s Deputy Minister of State Asse, Maciej Małecki, announced a new 10-year contract with PKP Intercity (Polish State Railways) in conjunction with the Ministry of Infrastructure. The contract aims to expand the share of rail transport as a percentage of total passenger mobility. A key motivation of the project is to decrease transportation exclusion and bolster rail as an energy efficient and sustainable means of transportation. From Google Translate:

“Huge investments that will be carried out in these years should provide a strong development impulse for the Polish economy and great opportunities for Polish companies with which our national carrier cooperates” says Deputy Minister Maciej Małecki. “It will be a decade beneficial for everyone, especially for passengers who will change to modern trains for good, but also for the entire railway sector and the labor market” adds the deputy minister.

Thanks to the new ten-year PSC agreement and the measures taken under it, access to railways will increase, which will be of great importance for increasing the mobility of society and thus combating transport exclusion. In this way, the role of railways as the first-choice means of transport in long-distance transport for the largest possible number of the country’s inhabitants will be restored. PKP Intercity’s plans assume reaching over 74 million passengers in 2030.”

Read the full announcement.

Scotland, United Kingdom

16 December 2020

The Scottish government updated its Climate Change Plan 2018-2023 in December of 2020 to include over 100 new policies that will support a COVID-19 “just transition” that both supports a drive toward zero net emissions as well as improves equity and inclusivity. According to the Plan’s executive summary:

“It is essential that our recovery from the pandemic responds to the climate emergency, and puts us on a pathway to deliver our statutory climate change targets and a just transition to net zero, by ensuring our actions in the immediate term are in line with our long-term goals. The Scottish Government has been clear in its commitment to securing a just and green recovery, which prioritises economic, social and environmental wellbeing, and responds to the twin challenges of the climate emergency and biodiversity loss.”

Some examples of how funds will be spent include:

• “£120 million for Zero Emission Buses, driving forward a fully decarbonised future for Scotland’s bus fleet and support the Scottish supply chain”
• “£50 million to transform Vacant and Derelict Land, ensuring that this land is utilised for maximum environmental and community benefit”
• “£50 million to create Active Freeways, providing a sustainable link between our towns, cities and some of our most beloved national landmarks”
• “£1.6 billion in heat and energy efficiency over the next Parliament
• £500 million investment over 5 years for active travel infrastructure, access to bikes and behaviour change schemes”

Read the full 2018-2023 Climate Change plan for more detailed information. 

21 August 2020Prior to the December 2020 updates, the government announced a “£20 million Social Housing Net Zero Heat Fund [that] will deliver rapid investment to support both our energy and construction sectors whilst reducing bills for those who in many cases have been worst-hit by the economic impact of COVID-19.”

Mongolia

10 November 2020

In collaboration with the Government of Mongolia, the Green Climate Fund announced a new $23.1 million dollar grant to support enhanced climate resilience of remote herder communities in the country’s marginalized provinces. In addition to promoting more sustainable practices, the grant prioritizes gender equity and the most vulnerable Mongolians:

“Approximately 26,000 households (130,000 people), living across four of the country’s most remote and vulnerable Western and Eastern aimags (provinces) are set to benefit, with a further 160,000 households (800,000 people) to benefit indirectly – around one quarter of Mongolia’s national population.

The project brings together climate-informed natural resources management and sustainable livestock practices, building on traditional cooperative approaches among herders while also introducing innovative technologies for traceability of sustainably sourced livestock products. 

…

The project will also place a strong emphasis on the voices of female herders and female-headed households in decision-making, ensuring equal representation in training and community activities, and access and control over resources.”

Read more details about the initiative here.

South Africa

30 October 2020

The South African National Department for Cooperative Governance is collaborating with the World Resource Institute (WRI) and the Coalition for Urban Transitions on two separate projects that emphasize a green, resilient, and equitable COVID-19 recovery:

“The partnership between South Africa, WRI and the Coalition for Urban Transitions will focus on implementation of the country’s Integrated Urban Development Framework (IUDF) while supporting a green, resilient and inclusive recovery for its hard-hit cities.

The discussion featured findings from a new report by the Coalition for Urban Transitions, “The Economic Case for Greening the Global Recovery through Cities,” which highlights seven priority areas that national governments can invest in, including: 1) Green construction and retrofits 2) Clean mobility 3) Renewable energy 4) Active transport 5) Nature-based solutions 6) Waste and resources and 7) R&D for clean technologies.

By focusing on these priority areas, countries like South Africa could help boost urban economies, create and protect millions of jobs and put cities on a trajectory towards long-term resilience and prosperity. The Coalition has identified a $24 trillion net opportunity globally by implementing low-carbon measures in cities.”

Read the full press release here.

Spain

7 October 2020

The Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, announced the government’s €72 billion “Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan”. The proposal, centered around ecological transition, digitalization, gender equality, and social cohesion, will help the country recover from COVID-19 in a way that protects the environment and increases equity. In addition to retrofitting half a million homes to be more energy efficient over the next three years, details of the plan include:

“Sánchez explained that the “top priorities” of the plan will be the ecological transition, which will be allocated 37% of the funds, and digital transformation, with 33% of the total.

A total of 16% of resources will go towards the agri-food sector and tackling rural issues including depopulation. Investment in infrastructure and resilient ecosystems to preserve biodiversity will account for 12%; a fair and inclusive energy transition, 9%; the modernization and digitalization of public administration, 5%; the modernization of SMEs, industry and the tourism sector, 17%; science and innovation in health care and other areas, 17%; education and vocational training ,18%; the new care economy and employment policies, 6%; sport and culture 1.1%; with the remainder going towards the modernization of the tax system.

Sánchez also laid out some of the goals of the plan, including 250,000 new electric vehicles and the creation of 100,000 charging points; 65,000 places for early years education for 0 to 3 year olds to help eliminate the gender gap; 1,460 support units for vulnerable students; widespread training in digital skills (to reach 2.5m small and medium-sized businesses); and ensuring 85% of the population have access to 5G.”

Read the full Catalan News article. 

Fiji

1 October 2020

Small island nations such as Fiji are especially vulnerable to the triple threats posed by COVID-19, climate change, and economic inequality. In Suva, the capital of Fiji, the Pacific Conference of Churches (PCC) established a “Peace Garden” in early 2020 to tackle the dual issues of food insecurity and climate change. Following the global pandemic, community leaders expanded the initiative, now termed the “Just Recovery Community Fridge” in order to tackle the triple threats facing the island:

The idea behind this fridge was to refrigerate donated excess fruit and vegetables from people who wanted to help and make that accessible to people who needed it. By reimagining food access, redistributing extra food, and refrigerating it in central Suva, this could help communities build resilience for future crises. 

Not only did the PCC donate the fridge, but they also gifted 350 Fiji a section of their urban garden for planting and harvesting vegetables. Whatever is harvested from that section is refrigerated in the Just Recovery Community Fridge and made available to the public to take what they need and leave what they don’t.’

Watch a video about the community fridge here.

Read more about the community fridge here.

Seychelles

1 October 2020

In a statement delivered to the 75th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Seychelles President Danny Faure emphasized the importance of a transformative COVID-19 recovery focused on inclusion and sustainable development. 

“Seychelles’ protection of nearly a third of our EEZ for ocean conservation, sustainability and climate action shows that countries’ responses to the health and financial crisis caused by COVID- 19 do not need to be at the expense of nature and climate.

…

We must not lose sight of the fact that the stimulus packages aimed at rescuing economies from the coronavirus crisis will determine the shape of the global economy – a more financially stable, socially inclusive and low-carbon economy – for years to come.

…

If we are going to talk about a multilateralism that counts for everyone, it must deliver an equitable recovery that prioritises innovation, science, health, wellbeing, opportunity and a liveable environment for all countries and societies.” 

Read (former) President Danny Faure’s full statement.

Australia

17 September 2020

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison revealed a AUD $1.9 billion investment package to fund low-emission energy technologies; about 84%, or AUD $1.6 billion, is designated for the Australian Renewable Energy Agency. The investment package emphasizes job creation, lowering energy costs for households and businesses, and the creation of new microgrids to deliver affordable, reliable energy to remote communities. The various initiatives will help the country recover from COVID-19 in a way that protects the climate and also improves equity. 

“Our JobMaker plan is about protecting and creating the jobs of today and positioning Australia for the jobs of the future, which is why our investment in new technologies is so crucial,” the Prime Minister said.

…

“The Government will now focus its efforts on the next challenge: unlocking new technologies across the economy to help drive down costs, create jobs, improve reliability and reduce emissions. This will support our traditional industries – manufacturing, agriculture, transport – while positioning our economy for the future.”

Read the full press release.

Brazil

2 September 2020

Brazil’s National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) plans to invest R$3.39 billion (US$659.6 million) in energy infrastructure and distribution to bring electricity to 14 million new people as well as create over 2,000 new jobs. Connecting previously unpowered households to the electric grid will improve energy security and health while reducing pollution from burning harmful biomass such as wood:

“The National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) will support the 2020/2021 investment plan of Neoenergy electricity distributors, with the objective of improving the services provided to 14.1 million customers in the states of Bahia, Pernambuco, Rio Grande do Norte, Mato Grosso do Sul and São Paulo. At the end of the project, the expectation is that 750,000 new households will be served by one of the concessionaires distributors Coelba, Celpe, Cosern and Elektro. BNDES-supported investments will also create 2,300 new direct jobs in these five states, equivalent to 11% of the workforce of the four distribution companies.”

Read the full press release.

Singapore

24 August 2020

Rather than simply recover and return to business as usual, President Halimah Yacob revealed plans to transform the country in the wake of COVID-19.  Announced at the beginning of the 14th Parliament, Madam Halimah intends to steer the country toward a low-carbon future that pushes for sustainable growth while using less resources. 

In addition to climate smart policy, the plans greatly emphasize creating a more equitable future for all Singaporeans. Some examples include: improving social mobility and cohesion; expanding social safety nets; job reskilling and the creation of new employment opportunities; the well-being of senior citizens; and education:

“Mdm Halimah said that building a fair and just society goes beyond government actions and asked for the support and participation of all Singaporeans to look after society’s most vulnerable members.

“We have made progress over the last decade, and we will do much more in this term of Government to see our people through the crisis and beyond. The more closely knit we are as a people, the further we can move ahead as a nation,” said Mdm Halimah.”

Read the entire Channel News Asia article here.

Colombia

20 August 2020

Formally adopted in July 2020, Colombia’s COVID-19 stimulus plan, ‘Compromiso por el Futuro de Colombia,’ emphasizes the creation of a more sustainable and equitable future as the country grapples with the effects of the global pandemic:

“[The new ‘Commitment to the Future of Colombia’] includes investments over COP 100 billion (about EUR 22 million) and the creation of 1 million jobs. The plan was initially presented in late July and is organized around five pillars:

• Employment generation
• Clean and sustainable growth
• Support for the vulnerable and rural communities
• Peace
• Strengthening the health care sector.

The plan’s “roadmap for sustainable growth” focuses on topics such as energy transition, combatting the effects of climate change, more reforestation and less deforestation, and access to environmental information. The government is planning to foster the country’s clean energy transition with the aim of making Colombia the regional leader in this field. It will spend COP 16 billion (EUR 3.5 million) to accelerate 27 renewable energy and transmission projects, hoping to create about 55,000 jobs. The president also stressed his ambitions regarding an environmental transformation and participation in the carbon dioxide capture market, including a plan to plant 180 million trees and promote agroforestry.” – International Institute for Sustainable Development

Access the full “Compromiso por el Futuro de Colombia” here.

Afghanistan

20 August 2020

Decades of war and sociopolitical instability have left many Afghans without access to reliable energy; an estimated 70% are not connected to the national electric grid. The Green Climate Fund, an initiative of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC), aims to change that with a new $17.2 million solar mini-grids initiative. In addition to climate protections, the renewable energy project will: directly combat high levels of energy poverty; lead to new employment opportunities; improve health outcomes; and protect the climate for future generations. 

According to the United Nations Development Program in Afghanistan:

“This project will help Afghanistan on its journey towards clean energy by creating market conditions to scale up mini-grids,” said UNDP Afghanistan Resident Representative Abdallah Al Dardari. “This has potential to change the lives of millions of people in the country. Access to clean energy not only helps curb greenhouse gas emissions; it also empowers people and builds resilience. It improves education and healthcare. It supports farmers, small businesses, and can create new livelihoods.”

Through this project, Afghanistan is set to advance its 2030 Sustainable Development agenda. Beyond being Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, access to clean energy enables the realization of a range of other SDGs—from climate action to gender equality, poverty reduction, education, and achieving zero hunger by increasing agricultural productivity.

As COVID-19 threatens to unravel the country’s painstaking efforts to recover from decades of war, access to clean energy will help communities rebuild, and bring hope for a better future for all.”

Read the full article and learn more about the project here.

Ethiopia

13 August 2020

The Government of Ethiopia, in conjunction with the Economic Commission of Africa, announced a Memorandum of Understanding for a US$3.6 million, 4-year project focused on nature based solutions to promote water security and community resilience as part of the country’s COVID-19 recovery plan. In addition to climate protections, the initiative emphasizes equitable development for vulnerable populations, specifically women and girls:

“According to the MoU, the collaboration is conceived as a tangible step forward towards the Decade of Action, by supporting the Government of Ethiopia to invest in nature-based solutions to tackle climate change and foster a ‘Green Recovery’.

The project takes off against the backdrop of African countries losing 3-5% of their GDP on climate change and access to clean energy challenges that have a tragic gender dimension; the majority of the over 3 million people who die from indoor air pollution due to inefficient cooking practices [of] women in Africa. The initiative aims to stimulate green jobs, improve community livelihoods, enhance the health of rural women and girls, and build climate resilience through nature-based solutions to deforestation and ecosystem degradation.”  

Read more about the MoU project plans here.

Learn about Ethiopia’s July commitment to increase cycling and walking infrastructure here.

Sub-Saharan Africa

4 August 2020

The European Investment Bank, in conjunction with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank- Africa’s premier multilateral trade finance institution), is directing €300 million to sub-Saharan African nations. The money will support nations’ overall COVID-19 response, as well as fund green, equitable recovery projects:

“The funds will help businesses in sub-Saharan Africa sustain jobs and maintain imports. A portion of the package will specifically support businesses owned or managed by women. Another part of the funds will aim at enabling international trade in medical supplies and equipment essential for slowing the spread of COVID-19. In addition, at least 25% of the capital is reserved for green projects, for example, to promote renewable energy, energy efficiency, and climate change adaptation. These funds can play an important role in supporting a green recovery in African nations.” – International Institute for Sustainable Development

Read more about the project here.

Ireland

23 July 2020

The Irish government announced a new plan, the “July Jobs Stimulus,” to help transform the country as it moves forward from COVID-19 lockdown. The €7.4 billion package includes many initiatives that can improve equity and protect the climate: job creation and reskilling, transportation reform focused on active travel to improve health outcomes, as well as energy efficiency retrofits for homes and businesses:

“The Taoiseach [Prime Minister of the Republic of Ireland], Micheál Martin TD said: “The stimulus package announced today will protect existing jobs while creating new and sustainable employment options in the months and years ahead. These measures will support small and medium businesses, give young people greater opportunities in training and education, support workers who have lost their jobs because of the pandemic and rejuvenate communities worst affected by the economic impact of the virus. This is a comprehensive plan which will boost the economy and bring confidence back to towns and villages across Ireland.” 

…

[The] Minister for Climate Action, Communications Networks and Transport, Eamon Ryan TD said: “This July Jobs initiative is a substantial first step on our road to a sustainable recovery. It invests in our people and our infrastructure in a way that will provide jobs and support our climate and environment goals. We can and will get through this, and we can build back greener and better, for the sake of our children, our communities and our planet.”

Read a press release about the package and download the full stimulus plan details here. 

2 July 2020

In addition to the July Jobs Stimulus package, the Bank of Ireland announced approximately €1.4 billion in funding for energy efficiency upgrades to homes and businesses, as well as €1 million to support local nonprofits working at the grassroots level to help vulnerable communities recover. – Market Screener

Jamaica

21 July 2020

While contributing very little to global greenhouse gas emissions, the small island nation of Jamaica adopted an expanded and revised energy plan. The new commitment targets emission reductions in the country’s land and forestry sectors as well as job creation:

“Carlos Fuller, a climate negotiator attached to the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC), says Jamaica’s new measures “will create new economic opportunities and generate employment for Jamaicans”.

“The COVID-19 recovery must include a shift to a less carbon-intensive economy under the Paris Agreement and [this is something] which Jamaica has pledged to do through these new, enhanced and more ambitious nationally determined contributions,” …

“The activities required to achieve the more ambitious NDC provides Jamaicans with the opportunity to create new economic prospects, which will generate more employment, capacity building initiatives, development and deployment of new technologies, stimulate foreign direct investment and lead to a healthier and enhanced quality of life.”

There is hope the country will pave the way for a regional trend towards improved emissions policies.”

Read the full story at phys.org.

Canada

8 July 2020

Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan emphasizes public health, vulnerable communities, and combating climate change:

“The government is providing $1.72 billion to the governments of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia and to the Alberta Orphan Well Association, to clean up orphan and inactive oil and gas wells. This will help keep Canada’s environment clean and maintain approximately 5,300 jobs in Alberta alone. In addition, the $750 million Emissions Reduction Fund will provide conventional and offshore oil and gas companies with repayable contributions to support their investments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and conduct research and development.” 

The plan also highlights numerous measures and initiatives focused on protecting and uplifting  disproportionately impacted communities, including seniors, low-income families, Indigenous People, differently-abled individuals,and victims of gender-based violence:

“The economic downturn is having a disproportionate impact on some segments of the population. The Plan was designed to provide support to those who need it the most.”

Examples of support from the report include:

• $100 million to support food banks, and other organizations providing emergency hunger relief
• $306.8 million to support Indigenous businesses, as well as for operating expenses and liquidity pressures of Aboriginal Financial Institutions
• $133 million to help Indigenous communities support their local businesses and economies
• $157.5 million for community partners to address the shelter and safety needs of people experiencing homelessness, with funding used to help manage or prevent an outbreak in the shelter system
• Extension of the Canadian Emergency Response Benefit, which has provided $2,000 monthly payments to individuals needing income assistance since March 1st 2020, from its original 16 weeks to 24 weeks

Read the complete Overview of Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan here.

Panama

9 June 2020

The Government of Panama launched a new national program, “Sustainable Panama: Reduce your Footprint,” to encourage public and private industries to lower their carbon footprint through measures such as energy efficiency retrofits and switching energy supply to renewable sources. The initiative is aimed at redesigning a more sustainable economy in the wake of COVID-19. Milciades Concepción, Minister of the Ministry of the Environment of Panamá, published a statement about the program, highlighting its benefits for both the climate and the need to prioritize equity: 

‘Just as each country has had to flatten the COVID- 19 curve to plan for more focused actions, likewise each country has the responsibility of flattening its GI-IG emissions curve and launching an ambitious reduction plan for carbon neutrality and climate resilience by 2050 with emphasis in social justice.

Committed to this responsibility, Panama has developed the Reduce Your Footprint National Program with the objective of managing and monitoring the actions that lead us toward a green recovery and the transition to a sustainable, inclusive, low-emission and resilient development model. 

Read the full statement here.

Germany

4 June 2020

Germany approved an unprecedented stimulus package worth roughly €130 billion with at least €40 billion dedicated to climate-related spending. 

The package includes many equity components, including: an increase to the single-parent tax allowance to stabilize the income of single parents; financial assistance for cultural projects and infrastructure; a special loan program to support non-profit organizations; and federal funding to support local public transportation.

“Alongside the increased EV grants, the programme also includes a €50bn “future package” to fund R&D, green transport programmes, hydrogen infrastructure, and building energy efficiency upgrades. Specifically, the plan promises €7bn for new hydrogen projects, €2bn for green auto innovations, €2.5bn for EV charging infrastructure, €2.5bn for public transport improvements, €1bn each for green aviation and shipping programmes, €2bn for green building upgrades, and €700m for improved forest management. Meanwhile, in a bid to curb electricity prices for households and businesses the government announced it would cap the renewables levy on bills at 6.5ct/kWh in 2021 and 6ct/kWh in 2022.”- Business Green 

Access a comprehensive breakdown of the stimulus plan here.

Finland

2 June 2020

The Finnish government unveiled it’s fourth supplementary budget as part of the country’s recovery from COVID-19. The latest stimulus package amounts to €5.5bn and focuses on sustainable transportation, land reform, and supporting those most adversely affected by the pandemic. 

“The Government’s stimulus package is aimed a boosting demand, improving Finland’s long-term growth prospects, combating climate change, promoting biodiversity, and reinforcing the entire country’s capabilities, resilience, self-sufficiency, and skills and competences.

… 

The supplementary budget proposal also includes a set of measures to support the wellbeing of children and young people.” 

Some highlights on how funds will support an inclusive and green recovery include:

• €10 million for piloting of a model to increase leisure activity among young people
• €45 million for labor market training and reskilling 
• €13.1 million for the rehabilitation of nature sites and development of nature tourism
• €53 million for projects involving green areas, water services, and forest conservation
• €18 million increase in support for walking and cycling
• €300 million added to the national climate fund to invest in a circular economy and energy efficiency

Read the full press release and budgetary breakdown.

Dominica

14 May 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic hit Dominica, a Caribbean island nation dependent on tourism and still recovering from 2017’s hurricane Maria of 2017, especially hard. Nicknamed the “Nature Island” due to the high rate of vegetation coverage and protected areas, Dominica’s government has a long history of progressive and inclusive climate policy, as demonstrated by it’s comprehensive Climate Resilience and Recovery Plan (CRRP): 

“Succinctly, the objective of the Climate Resilience and Recovery Plan is to translate Dominica’s vision to “build the first climate resilient nation in the world” into a concrete set of actions. 

It elaborates the objectives and strategies in the [National Resilience Development Strategy] NRDS into specific initiatives and activities that will involve implementing and donor agencies, stakeholders in the public and private sectors and the population at large. The NRDS specifies forty-three (43) targets that must be achieved if Dominica is to become the first climate resilient nation in the world.

…

The central position of the CRRP is that Dominica has no choice but to pursue its vision to build the first climate resilient country in the world. Business-as-usual is simply not an option for securing the country’s future and the continued well-being of its people.“

Read the press release. 

Read the Climate Resilience and Recovery Plan 2020-2030.

New Zealand

14 May 2020

Prime Minister Jacinda Arden announced the adoption of “Wellbeing Budget 2020: Rebuilding Together” which includes the creation of a COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund and provides NZ$800 million in new funding for green projects:

“The COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund ‘shovel-ready’ projects announced today include $350m for public and active transport, and $460m for projects to protect the environment and help New Zealand cut pollution and adapt to the effects of climate change.” – The Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 

In addition to advancing climate protection, the Budget’s “Rebuilding Together” strategy incorporates a health, economic, and social equity lens:

“As we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic… We know that return may be harder for some communities than for others. Budget 2020 provides substantial investment in both government and non-government social services to support New Zealanders’ employment, housing and broader life outcomes. It includes investment in initiatives to grow strong and resilient communities. It also supports vulnerable and marginalised populations, with a particular focus on the elderly, people with disabilities and victims of domestic violence.” – New Zealand Government

Highlights of how Budget 2020 funds will be divided can be found here.

United Kingdom

9 May 2020

UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps launched a £2 billion [$2.5 billion USD] plan to improve and expand pedestrian and cycling infrastructure in the country:

“Pop-up bike lanes with protected space for cycling, wider pavements, safer junctions, and cycle and bus-only corridors will be created in England within weeks as part of a £250 million [$308.5 million USD] emergency active travel fund – the first stage of a £2 billion [$2.5 billion USD] investment, as part of the £5 billion [$6.17 billion USD] in new funding announced for cycling and buses in February.

Following unprecedented levels of walking and cycling across the UK during the pandemic, the plans will help encourage more people to choose alternatives to public transport when they need to travel, making healthier habits easier and helping make sure the road, bus and rail networks are ready to respond to future increases in demand.”

Read the full story on the UK government’s official website here. 

Iceland

5 May 2020

“The Icelandic Government has revealed several new environmental policies and proposals recently, including fresh funds for projects tackling climate change and a bid to ban certain single-use products. Although the measures are by no means radical, they suggest that environmental concerns may be a greater government priority post-pandemic.

The government awarded grants totalling 550 million ISK to projects addressing climate change as part of its second COVID-19 economic stimulus package. Further details about the allocation of these funds were released on May 5th. The investment will be used to increase carbon sequestration, accelerate switches to sustainable energy sources and fund further climate research…

Around 200 million ISK will be invested into projects aiming to naturally store carbon dioxide long-term in order to reduce levels of greenhouse gases in the earth’s atmosphere. 
A further 300 million ISK will be used to reduce Iceland’s energy consumption and reliance on fossil fuels. Two-thirds of the funds will go towards port electrification. Around 40 million ISK will be used to research domestic fuel production and switching vehicles to sustainable energy sources.” – The Reykjavik Grapevine

Pakistan

30 April 2020

Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Imran Khan, launched a 10 Billion Tree campaign in 2018. While the project was halted in March of 2020 as Pakistan responded to the COVID-19 pandemic, Khan recently approved a “Green Stimulus Package” that will restart the program and employ people laid off due to the lockdown to plant the trees. 

This year the programme is employing triple the number of workers it did in its first year, said Malik Amin Aslam, climate change advisor to the prime minister. Many of the new jobs are being created in rural areas, he said, with a focus on hiring women and unemployed daily workers – mainly young people – who were migrating home from locked-down cities. – Thomas Reuters  

The Green Stimulus package… aims to promote plantation by setting up nurseries and natural forests and promotion of honey, fruit and olive plantation in the country. Under the package, ‘Green Nigehabaan’ initiative will also be launched to provide job opportunities to initially 65,000 youth, making them part of the plantation campaign. – Daily Times Pakistan

France

29 April 2020

Air France has been hard hit by the COVID-19 crisis.  On April 24^th, the French government offered the airline a 7 billion euro ($7.6 billion) package composed of state-guaranteed bank loans and loans directly from the state. 

According to reporting by Reuters, “Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire told the lower house of parliament’s economics committee that the airline would have to cut its carbon emissions by half per passenger and per kilometre by 2030, from 2005 levels. For flights specifically in mainland France, emissions would have to be halved by 2024, which Le Maire said meant that domestic flights would be “drastically reduced” to focus on serving hubs for transfers. In a further condition, 2% of the fuel used by its planes would have to be derived from alternative, sustainable sources by 2025.”

The International Railway Journal also reported that Le Maire told the members of the economic committee that “The plane should no longer be a means of transporting [people] in one hour or one hour 15 minutes which could be done at lower cost of CO₂ by train in two hours or two hours 30. This must be the rule and we will enforce it.”

South Korea

16 April 2020

South Korea’s Democratic party has won a landslide victory in elections that took place yesterday, achieving a strong mandate for a European-style Green New Deal, making it the nation first in east Asia to enact a pledge to reach net zero emissions by 2050. – Forbes

The Democratic Party’s decisive victory will enable President Moon to press ahead with its newly adopted Green New Deal agenda during the last two years of his mandate. Under the plan, South Korea has become the first country in East Asia to pledge to reach net zero emissions by 2050… The plan includes large-scale investments in renewable energy, the introduction of a carbon tax, the phase out of domestic and overseas coal financing by public institutions, and the creation of a Regional Energy Transition Centre to support workers transition to green jobs. – Climate Change News 

Despite pressing forward with the Green New Deal plan in April of 2020, the South Korean government supported a $2 billion dollar bailout of the country’s largest coal plant manufacturer, as reported by Climate Change News.

Chile

13 April 2020

Chile is the second South America country, and only a handful of countries in the world, to submit an updated climate action plan, or Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC):

“As Chile fights COVID-19 against a backdrop of unresolved social tensions, the government hopes its strengthened plan to tackle climate change will help ease inequality while getting a green boost from economic recovery after the coronavirus outbreak…

If Chile were to be fully powered by renewable energy by 2050, it could generate savings of more than $5 billion annually, reduce deaths related to air pollution in the capital, Santiago, and generate up to 11,000 new jobs, the study said.

Chile’s environment ministry said in a statement that meeting the carbon-neutrality goal would generate investment opportunities estimated at $27 billion-$49 billion by 2050.” –Thomas Reuters 

Read Chile’s updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) here.