The second dialogue in the EMG Nexus Dialogue series COVID-19 and the Environment explored how the global response to the pandemic could provide an opportunity to accelerate the transition towards a more sustainable, inclusive and resilient future.

Bringing together experts from UNEP, UNEP-WCMC, FAO, WTO, UNDP, UN Women, ILO and the International Resource Panel, the dialogue examined the interconnected impacts of COVID-19 on economies, livelihoods, food systems and the environment. Discussions highlighted the need to address growing inequalities and environmental pressures through integrated recovery strategies that advance the economic, social and environmental dimensions of sustainable development.

Participants explored opportunities to build back better through green jobs, sustainable trade, resilient food systems, nature-based solutions, resource efficiency and responsible public and private investment. Particular emphasis was placed on strengthening science-based policymaking, supporting vulnerable communities and aligning economic recovery measures with the Sustainable Development Goals.

The dialogue emphasized that economic recovery and environmental sustainability are mutually reinforcing objectives. It called for coordinated, inclusive and evidence-based approaches that move beyond short-term crisis responses to build more equitable, productive and environmentally sustainable economies.

The third and final dialogue in the EMG Nexus Dialogue series COVID-19 and the Environment explored the interconnections between human health, environmental change and the resilience of social and economic systems, drawing lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bringing together experts from ILO, WHO, UNEP, WWF and GIZ, the dialogue examined how the pandemic exposed vulnerabilities across interconnected systems, including public health, occupational safety, biodiversity, natural resource management and livelihoods. Discussions highlighted the importance of understanding how environmental degradation, ecosystem disruption and zoonotic disease risks interact with wider social and economic challenges.

Participants emphasized the need for integrated approaches to risk management, stronger scientific information and early-warning systems, and closer collaboration across sectors and institutions. The dialogue also explored the role of nature-based solutions, local communities, civil society and the private sector in strengthening resilience and addressing the underlying drivers of environmental and health risks.

The dialogue underscored that healthy ecosystems, human wellbeing and economic resilience are fundamentally interconnected. It called for a systems-thinking approach to policymaking and international cooperation, recognizing that integrated solutions can simultaneously advance environmental protection, public health and sustainable development.