Unlocking Prosperity: How a Healthy Environment Fuels Economic Growth

Welcome, everyone, to the 169th meeting of the Committee of Permanent Representatives (CPR). As we gather today, the world is going through significant changes. It’s a good time to reflect on our mission.

At the core of our efforts is the belief that a healthy planet is key to everyone’s well-being. This is crucial for our economies, our health, and the prosperity of all nations. Even in tough times, working together on global environmental issues is the best way to create a healthier planet for all. Just last month in Rome, countries showed this commitment by supporting the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework at the resumed 16th session of the Convention on Biological Diversity.

One key outcome from that meeting was the agreement on a mobilization strategy aimed at bridging the biodiversity finance gap. We also established indicators to track our progress and launched the Cali Fund, which will help countries share the benefits of biodiversity’s genetic resources more fairly. This is a step forward in our journey to reconnect with nature.

However, progress needs to be backed by real action. Countries must fulfill their commitments swiftly and fully. As we approach COP30 in Belem, it’s crucial that nations submit their updated Nationally Determined Contributions. To fight climate change effectively, we need substantial investments throughout the climate agenda, and these investments should also bring economic and social benefits.

The upcoming year is critical for UNEP as we focus on managing chemicals and waste. The Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm Conventions will meet in Geneva, aiming to strengthen international efforts against hazardous chemicals. Decisions will include creating clearer regulations around e-waste and plastic waste. This is essential to ensure that our environment remains safe for future generations.

In June 2025, we will hold a crucial session on pollution in Punta del Este, Uruguay. Here, a new science-policy panel will be established, joining existing panels on climate change and biodiversity. This will provide invaluable scientific insights that nations can use to shape their environmental policies.

Another significant event is the resumed fifth session of negotiations to combat plastic pollution in Geneva this August. With Switzerland hosting, we expect productive discussions to finalize a treaty aimed at minimizing plastic’s impact on our oceans—one of the most pressing environmental issues today.

Additionally, the UN Ocean Conference in June in Nice will spotlight ocean conservation, helping us focus on sustainable use of ocean resources.

As we approach the end of the year, two vital meetings will occur. COP30 will take place in Brazil, while UNEA-7 will center on integrating our response to environmental crises.

In moving forward, UNEP is committed to improving efficiency, accountability, and transparency. Recent initiatives, like a Quarterly Business Review, allow for continual assessment of our performance and budget oversight. We recognize the ongoing challenges we face; the UN is experiencing a severe funding crisis. Measures like hiring restrictions and budget cuts are being implemented to cope with this situation.

Despite the obstacles, I am grateful for the increasing support from Member States. Since 2019, the number of contributors to the Environment Fund has grown, and we’re witnessing an upward trend in contributions. However, with the tightening budgets in various countries, we need to ensure that this trend continues.

We currently face a significant funding shortfall for UNEA-7, needing approximately $4.4 million. Despite contributions from several governments, there remains a gap of $1.7 million. If the situation does not improve, we may need to limit the number of delegates from developing countries who can attend. Participation in UNEA is vital for shaping our environmental agenda, and we want all voices to be heard.

The world may seem uncertain right now, but UNEP and its Member States have a long history of making a difference. Together, we can navigate these challenging times and build a stronger future. Let’s embrace the spirit of collaboration and reinforce the importance of multilateral efforts for the sake of our planet and society.

For more detailed information on current environmental policies and initiatives, you can check the UNEP website.

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Global,Nature Action,Biodiversity,Chemicals & pollution action,Ocean, seas and coasts,Coastal and Marine Ecosystems,Nature,Plastic pollution