As countries begin to recover from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, policy makers must decide what type of economic recovery they want to pursue. Will they choose measures that continue with existing “business-as-usual” economic structures that have a negative impact on the environment? Or will they take up the challenge of rebuilding in a way that ensures an economically and environmentally resilient future.

A green recovery approach is crucial for Southeast Asia in addressing the worsening impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss and strengthening the region’s long-term competitiveness. Among the green growth opportunities that have significant economic potential in terms of creating jobs, reversing environmental damage, and achieving the sustainable development goal targets are: productive and regenerative agriculture, sustainable urban development and transport models, clean energy transition, circular economy models, and healthy and productive oceans. 

Organized by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the ISEAS - Yusof Ishak Institute, the webinar examined how these green growth opportunities could be harnessed as governments increasingly recognize the need for policy measures that focus on environmental sustainability, climate change, and disaster preparedness. 

Speakers

Opening remarks: 
• Ramesh Subramaniam, Director General, Southeast Asia Department, Asian Development Bank    
• Choi Shing Kwok, Director and Chief Executive Officer, ISEAS - Yusof Ishak Institute    

Keynotes: 
• Sharon Seah, Senior Fellow and Coordinator, Climate Change in Southeast Asia Programme, ISEAS - Yusof Ishak Institute    
• James Villafuerte, Senior Economist, Southeast Asia Department, Asian Development Bank    

Moderator:
• Naeeda Crishna Morgado, Infrastructure Specialist, Southeast Asia Department, Asian Development Bank 

Panelists:    
• Jayant Menon, Senior Fellow, ISEAS - Yusof Ishak Institute    
• Bonaria Siahaan, CEO, Yayasan CARE Peduli
• Ferry Akbar Pasaribu, Deputy Assistant for Investment Strategy, Coordinating Ministry for Maritime and Investment Affairs, Indonesia 
• Lorraine Elliott, Professor Emerita, Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs, Australian National University  
• Paroche Hutacharoen, Senior Expert, Bond Market Development, Public Debt Management Office, Ministry of Finance, Thailand