Principles of Green economy

The most common green economy principles identified from a review of eight published sets of principles or characteristics:

1. The green economy is a means for achieving sustainable development.

2. The green economy should create decent work and green jobs.

3. The green economy is resource and energy efficient.

4. The green economy respects planetary boundaries or ecological limits or scarcity.

5. The green economy uses integrated decision making.

6. The green economy measures progress beyond GDP using appropriate indicators/metrics.

7. The green economy is equitable, fair and just – between and within countries and between generations.

8. The green economy protects biodiversity and ecosystems.

9. The green economy delivers poverty reduction, well‐being, livelihoods, social protection and access to essential services.

10. The green economy improves governance and the rule of law. It is inclusive; democratic; participatory; accountable; transparent; and stable.

11. The green economy internalises externalities.

UNDESA (2001). A Guidebook to the Green Economy, Issue 2: exploring green economy principles