Challenges
In the past, economic growth often seemed to depend on using up natural resources as though supplies were unlimited. The result is a “resource crisis” with a threat of shortages as well as rising prices with significant influences on the environment and the climate. Economic development is a necessary but insufficient prerequisite to reducing poverty and improving overall living conditions. But global consumption of natural resources is outstripping nature’s capacity to regenerate.
What is a Green Economy? UNEP has defined the Green Economy as "one that results in improved human well-being and social equity, while significantly reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities”. In simple terms, a Green Economy is based on sustainable consumption and production patterns - low-carbon, resource efficient and socially inclusive. Although the debate is still on, many organizations today share an understanding of the concept.
GFA concept and services
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For more than 20 years, GFA teams have been supporting public and private sector stakeholders in implementing green economy policies, strategies and concepts. We see the green economy as a multi-sectoral challenge that can only be met successfully through a multidisciplinary approach by mobilising know-how and best practices in various fields.
Green economy policies
Our experts consult reform processes that improve the frame of green economy and low-carbon development strategies at national, regional and local level. The services we offer comprise push approaches, e.g. ecological taxation schemes, implementation of environmental standards, new green laws and regulations and pull approaches, e.g. incentive schemes, award for best practices, awareness building for population. In addition, GFA offers advisory services on environmental fiscal reforms and socially acceptable ways of reducing environmentally harmful subsidies.
Green private sector development
GFA consultants facilitate a conducive business environment for private sector investment and competitiveness by supporting green business development services, introducing environmental standards in value chains, transferring know-how and green technologies as well as developing green, inclusive business models. We promote dialogue between government, private sector and civil society stakeholders in order to mainstream green economy in all relevant policy areas and strategies.
Green skills for green jobs
Our experts are highly qualified and develop curricula and training materials for green skills and occupations. They train national experts to roll out related training programs. This way we are meeting the increasing demand of the labour market for technical experts in the fields of photovoltaic, concentrated solar power, solar water heating, micro hydro power and biogas.
Green finance
We provide public and private finance institutions with know-how and concepts for sustainable investments, green lines of credit and the financing of projects on topics such as renewable energies, energy efficiency and climate, innovation.
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