COVID-19 has fundamentally changed our society. As we begin the process of recovering, PHP4 Climate Action is advocating for a just and green recovery and rebuild. The following 2 sets of principles are vital in addressing the impacts of COVID-19 as we rebuild our society and communities.
1. Please consider signing onto the Principles for a Just Recovery from COVID-19 Letter in support of the following principles:
1. Put people’s health first, no exceptions.
Resource health services everywhere; ensure access for all.
2. Provide economic relief directly to the people.
Focus on people and workers – particularly those marginalised in existing systems – our short-term needs and long-term conditions.
3. Help workers and communities, not corporate executives.
Assistance directed at specific industries must be channeled to communities and workers, not shareholders or corporate executives, and never to corporations that don’t commit to tackling the climate crisis.
4. Create resilience for future crises.
We must create millions of decent jobs that will help power a just recovery and transition for workers and communities to the zero-carbon future we need.
5. Build solidarity and community across borders – don’t empower authoritarians.
Transfer technology and finance to lower-income countries and communities to allow them to respond using these principles and share solutions across borders and communities. Do not use the crisis as an excuse to trample on human rights, civil liberties, and democracy.
2. Green Strings Principles for a Green Recovery from COVID-19 in Canada
The following seven “green strings” should be attached to COVID-19 recovery measures announced by Canada’s government:
Support only companies that agree to plan for net-zero emissions by 2050.
Make sure funds go towards jobs and stability, not executives and shareholders.
Support a just transition that prepares workers for green jobs.
Build up the sectors and infrastructure of tomorrow.
Strengthen and protect environmental policies during recovery.
Be transparent and accountable to Canadians.
Put people first and leave no one behind.