That could include channelling a bigger share of development funds to poor communities, or ensuring stimulus funds to kick-start pandemic-hit economies also address climate threats. Van Aalst warned rich countries also face intertwined COVID-19 and weather threats. Spending stimulus money well can create "additional long-term benefits if we pick the projects right", Hallegatte said. But winning cash for climate-smart water and sanitation programmes or strengthening health systems will be a challenge - and take persistent pressure, van Aalst and Patel warned. "Past experience tells you when the crisis is over, everybody goes back to doing the things they used to," Patel said.

Source: bd News24 May 07, 2020 19:07 UTC