Over the past 18 months, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected almost every aspect of our lives. As governments begin the process of economic recovery, they must grapple with fundamental questions about the future of our society. The stakes couldn’t be higher: choices made now will set the course of development for decades to come – crucial years for the planet’s climate, as the latest IPCC report makes clear.

The prospects for a sustainable post-pandemic future took centre stage at IKEM Academy 2021, titled ‘Climate change at a crossroads – opportunities and challenges for a global green recovery’. This edition of the IKEM newsletter takes a look back at the Academy, which celebrated its 18th anniversary this year.

Read on to revisit highlights of the three-day conference and find out about the top five takeaways from this year’s programme. Academy coordinator Alexandra Steinkraus then wraps up by reflecting on what we can – and must – do now to ensure that society emerges from the pandemic more sustainable, more equitable and more resilient than ever before. 

At IKEM Academy 2021, participants shared ideas on how coronavirus recovery measures can create jobs, bolster economic growth, finance green innovation, accelerate decarbonisation and improve prosperity for traditionally underserved communities.

After a year of unprecedented crisis, countries around the world are facing immense challenges. The task ahead, though daunting, presents an opportunity to reimagine the future of our planet and build a more resilient, sustainable and equitable society.