António Guterres, Secretary General of the United Nations (UN), issued a warning regarding the impact of global chaos caused by pollution, species extinction, ecosystems, and greenhouse gases in New York yesterday. He likened humanity to the “delinquent son” of Mother Earth on International Planet Day. Guterres emphasized that these actions harm nature, humanity, food production, oceans, and air quality. Moreover, they create a more dangerous environment and slow down sustainable development.
In his message for the commemoration, Guterres called for restoring harmony with nature, promoting sustainable production and consumption, and protecting from harm. He urged the need to create jobs, reduce poverty, and support sustainable development efforts. The Secretary General stressed the importance of stopping biodiversity loss, pollution, and significantly reducing global greenhouse gas emissions to address the current global crisis.
Additionally, Guterres urged support for indigenous peoples, communities, and those most impacted by climate and biodiversity crises. He called for climate justice for countries disproportionately affected and quick mobilization of necessary financing and support to protect nature and promote sustainable development. Guterres emphasized the urgency for nations to develop new climate plans limiting the global temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius, with the G20 taking a lead role in phasing out fossil fuels and ending nature-destructive subsidies.
In conclusion, Guterres highlighted the need to repair relationships with Mother Earth as central to addressing humanity’s challenges. He emphasized the importance of taking immediate action to create a better future for all.