Joint Public Lecture by UNEP Expert Provides Insight on the Challenges and Prospects for a 'Green Economy'

On 1 December 2009, Singapore Environment Institute (SEI) and the Centre for Liveable Cities (CLC) were privileged to welcome Mr. Pavan Sukhdev in a joint public lecture on "Challenges and Prospects for a Green Economy”. Mr. Sukhdev is the Project Leader for United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)’s Green Economy Initiative. The senior banker, currently seconded to the UNEP, spoke to some 180 policy makers, public officers, business and industry leaders.

Mr. Pavan Sukhdev

With nations expected to commit to emission cuts at Copenhagen's climate discussions, the corporate community is keen to find out how they could adapt in a carbon-constraint world. With the international community touting green growth as the next growth strategy, we are glad to have Mr. Sukhdev shed light on the subject.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Andrew Tan, CEO (NEA) and Director (CLC) reflected upon how the recovery from the current economic crisis presented an opportunity for nations to realign their economic goals in a more ecologically sustainable manner. He had observed several advanced economies incorporating ‘green stimulus’ measures in their recovery packages to boost green growth.

Mr. Pavan Sukhdev sharing his insights

Mr. Sukhdev’ lecture could not have been more timely as he discussed characteristics of the green economy. He highlighted it was important for public and private institutions to significantly increase investments in the green sectors of the economy as a means to promote sustainable economic growth, decent job creation and reduce social disparities.

Complementing his work on the formulation of green economy models, Mr. Sukhdev shared findings from another project he led - the Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) commissioned by the UNEP. This project aims to 'put a price tag' on nature's services rendered to us so that we seriously consider biodiversity in our economic decision making .Natural biodiversity or natural capital provides sustenance to life support systems but is most vulnerable to exploitation activities. Hence, he advocates the adoption of ‘green accounting’ practices amongst businesses to minimise their ecological footprint on nature ecosystems.

Mr. Sukhdev taking questions, facilitated by CEO(NEA) Mr. Andrew Tan

Mr. Sukhdev's session was well-received with the Question and Answer session drawing many questions from the audience. The participants were impressed with Mr. Sukhdev's intimate knowledge on the environment as it was rare for bankers to be environmental activists too. They also found his presentation educational and informative as it gave them a good grasp of current environmental issues while providing glimpses into a green future.

SEI and CLC will continue their collaboration to bring in experts and leaders to share insights with the environmental community here.

Last updated on 14 Dec 09