Recovery and Renewal: Three Challenges and Opportunities for Embracing Green Solutions in Post-Conflict Landscapes.
Green reconstruction in post-conflict environments has gained significant traction in recent years. As nations get to grips with reconstruction challenges, an emerging narrative emphasises not just rebuilding but rebuilding sustainably. This topic is particularly relevant for Ukraine, with the international community showing keen interest in supporting the nation’s recovery.
The June 2023 Ukraine Recovery Conference, co-chaired by the UK and Ukraine, emphasised the role of the private sector in supporting Ukraine's efforts to "build back better". It highlighted the importance of integrating green and sustainable practices in reconstruction. Meanwhile, Greenpeace has launched the Ukrainian Partnership for Green Construction to build a strategic alliance between European cities and Ukrainian municipalities. This October, the UN further underscored the global emphasis by focusing the annual World Habitat Day on "Resilient Urban Economies” that are “drivers of growth and recovery."
At Athari, we frequently witness the challenges of sustainable urban development through our collaborations with clients in green technology and renewables. As cities navigate this journey, they face hurdles that demand strategic thinking and inventive approaches.
Challenge 1: The Urgency to Rebuild vs. The Time-Intensive Nature of Green Planning
There's an understandable urgency to rebuild and restore normalcy in the aftermath of conflict. Governments and communities often prioritise rapid reconstruction to address immediate needs and shelter affected populations.
Green and sustainable planning often requires assessments, consultations, and careful strategising, which can be time-intensive. This can create tension between the immediate desire to rebuild and the longer-term vision of sustainable reconstruction.
Opportunity 1: Leveraging International Aid and Expertise
Post-conflict settings often draw the attention and support of the international community. This political capital can be harnessed to draw down on international aid, expertise, and best practices in green reconstruction. By aligning reconstruction goals with global sustainability standards, nations can access a wealth of resources and knowledge to ‘fast-track’ the rebuilding process.
Challenge 2: Political and Social Instability
Post-conflict environments are often characterised by political instability, especially in cases where transitional governments are established. Given their temporary nature and immediate challenges, these interim administrations might lack a long-term vision or commitment to sustainable practices.
Opportunity 2: Focusing on Quick-Win Green Technologies
In the face of such challenges, it's beneficial to prioritise quick-win, easy-to-set-up green technologies. Modular renewable energy systems, for instance, can be rapidly deployed without extensive infrastructure. Examples include portable solar panels, small-scale wind turbines, and bioenergy units. These solutions provide immediate energy access and set the foundation for a sustainable energy future, offering a practical approach to green reconstruction amidst political and social uncertainties.
Challenge 3: Economic Constraints and Prioritization
Post-conflict regions often grapple with devastated economies. Infrastructure might be damaged, industries could be non-operational, and the local workforce might be displaced or untrained for the rebuilding tasks ahead. There's a pressing need to revive the economy, and green initiatives, which sometimes require significant initial investments, might be viewed as secondary or even luxury financial concerns.
Opportunity 3: Leveraging Green Finance and International Partnerships
While the initial costs of green initiatives can be high, their long-term economic benefits are substantial. Moreover, the global shift towards sustainability has led to the emergence of green finance mechanisms. Post-conflict nations can tap into green bonds, climate funds, and international grants dedicated to sustainable projects. Partnering with international organisations, NGOs, and private sector entities can open doors to funding opportunities, for example, global partnerships for local workforce training.
While the challenges with green reconstruction are inherent, the opportunities are transformative. By intertwining sustainability with rebuilding, nations can chart a course towards a more environmentally conscious future.
At Athari, we champion this vision, advocating for a holistic approach to post-conflict recovery that marries sustainability with growth.