The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) convened economists, academics and leaders of private and public institutions at an “International Workshop to take forward the Global Initiative on the Green Economy.” The workshop, which met in Geneva, Switzerland, from 1-3 December 2008, considered the US$4 million UN Green Economy Initiative, which was launched on 22 October 2008, and seeks to respond to the global economic downturn by focusing policymakers on the promise of economic growth and job creation in environmental industries.

Meeting attendees considered and shared ideas on: a sustainable green economy; the role of socially and environmentally responsible investments in such an economy; the institutions needed to enable the transition to a “green” economy; and relevant analytical challenges, including in modeling. The six areas of focus considered by break-out groups were: environmental infrastructure; biodiversity-based business; clean and efficient technologies; renewable energy; chemicals and waste management; green cities; buildings; and transport.
Links to further information
UNEP Press Release, 25 November 2008
UNEP Green Economy Initiative Website
Conference website