Greener Recovery - Delivering a sustainable recovery from COVID-19
This LI paper outlines five principles to guide Government action in advance of its Autumn Statement 2020.
To achieve a truly sustainable recovery, the UK should:
- Take a natural capital approach to new infrastructure and housing
- Invest in maintenance and retrofit of existing places
- Set higher and fairer standards for green space
- Invest in natural solutions to climate change
- Create a step-change in green skills, digital, and data
The improvement in local environmental conditions was an unexpected benefit of the COVID-19 lockdown. Improved air quality in big cities, cleaner water and beaches, better prospects for local wildlife and more are all significant gains that many want to preserve in the aftermath of the crisis.
Historically, national responses to recessions tend to focus on short-term economic growth at the expense of longer-term economic and environmental sustainability. Twelve years on from the 2008 recession, the UK is once again investing in economic stimulus.
The idea of a ‘green recovery’ has received overwhelming public and industry support. But it is not just a slogan. A business-as-usual response, led by capital investment in grey infrastructure construction, will not suffice. A green recovery means leading with green infrastructure.
Click here for the supplementary report: A Green Recovery for Parks and Green Spaces
About the Landscape Institute
The Landscape Institute (LI) is the chartered body for the landscape profession. It is an educational charity that promotes the art and science of landscape practice.
The LI’s aim, through the work of its members is to protect, conserve and enhance the natural and built environment for the public benefit.
The LI provides a professional home for all landscape practitioners including landscape scientists, landscape planners, landscape architects, landscape managers and urban designers.
For more information visit: https://www.landscapeinstitute.org/