The COVID-19 pandemic has given rise to what may be the most challenging global crisis of our lives. As of August 1st, more than 18 million cases of COVID-19 have been diagnosed globally, with over 650,000 deaths. The world is facing the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. This is a harrowing test of international solidarity and co-operation. The poorest are suffering the most as the crisis exacerbates existing inequalities.

Meanwhile, the climate crisis has not gone away. In fact, the COVID-19 crisis is a wake-up call which strengthens the case for climate action. COVID-19 demonstrates the importance of early action to mitigate major risks, the importance of listening to scientific experts, and the interconnectedness of ecological health, human health and economic health. In short, COVID-19 is a threat multiplier and underscores the urgency of building resilience not only to pandemics but also to other systemic risks, such as climate change and ecosystem destruction.

This webinar will reflect on these opportunities and the challenges to building back better towards a low-carbon and resilient future, with perspectives from countries, MDBs, international organizations, and those involved with the upcoming COP26 in 2021. Speakers will discuss the global response to COVD-19, and the ways in which countries, organizations, and the private sector can build back better towards a low-carbon future following the pandemic.

Agenda and Speakers

Keynote (10 minutes)

  • Rt. Hon. Lord Zac Goldsmith, Minister of State for the Pacific and the Environment, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the Department for International Development and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, The United Kingdom
  • Minister Suharso Monoarfa, Minister, BAPPENAS National Development Planning Agency, Indonesia

Panel: International Perspectives to Build Back Better Towards a Low Carbon Resilient Future (45 minutes)

Moderator

  • Helen Mountford, Vice President of Climate and Economics, WRI

Panelists

  • John Murton, UK Envoy, COP26
  • H.E. Deputy Minister Arifin Rudiyanto, Deputy Minister for Maritime and Natural Resources BAPPENAS, Indonesia
  • Nirarta Samadhi, Country Director, WRI Indonesia
  • Rachel Biderman, Country Director, WRI Brazil

Q&A with Audience (15 minutes)

Closing Remarks (7 minutes)

  • Mari Pangestu, Managing Director of Development Policy and Partnerships, The World Bank