The economic downturn in Canada since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic has been severe. While a green recovery offers an opportunity to advance solutions that support economic growth and improve environmental outcomes, policymakers should also consider the health impacts of green recovery spending.
Using a “health plus” approach, developed for this work based on a number of leading health evaluation frameworks from internationally recognized bodies, this report conducts a holistic assessment of the long-term health benefits of projects that are experienced by individuals and communities.
Health plus places health and equity at the forefront and seeks to address synergistic goals between health, health equity and a green recovery by assessing three factors: personal characteristics, socio-economic and demographic factors, and community characteristics. It also delves into the five types of green recovery projects – workforce development, expanding active transport infrastructure, increasing food security, managing methane emissions from oil and gas, and municipal solid waste management.