Environmental (Commonwealth Union)_ At the 169th meeting of the Committee of Permanent Representatives (CPR), esteemed ambassadors and distinguished colleagues were welcomed to discuss global environmental efforts. Amidst worldwide challenges, it was emphasized that a healthy planet remains fundamental to economic stability, human well-being, and global prosperity.
Environmental multilateralism has been recognized as the most effective tool in securing a sustainable future. The progress made at the 16th session of the Convention on Biological Diversity COP in Rome was highlighted, where a resource mobilization strategy was adopted, indicators for biodiversity progress were established, and the Cali Fund was launched. These initiatives were presented as key advancements in global environmental preservation. However, to ensure tangible outcomes, decisive action must follow commitments.
On the climate front, the importance of updating Nationally Determined Contributions ahead of COP30 in Belém was reiterated. Investing urgently in sustainable initiatives is crucial for mitigating climate change and ensuring both economic and social benefits. There were warnings that without rapid and substantial efforts, the devastating consequences of climate change would continue to escalate.
UNEP reaffirmed its dedication to advancing environmental initiatives, highlighting several significant events in the coming months. The Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm Conventions, set to convene in Geneva, will focus on the management of chemicals and waste. Discussions will address legal frameworks, e-waste, plastic pollution, and hazardous substance regulations. Additionally, in Uruguay, negotiations will continue to establish a science-policy panel on pollution, which will complement existing climate and biodiversity panels. This panel will serve as a source of scientific guidance, enabling informed decision-making for policymakers worldwide.
Additionally, they emphasized the August negotiations regarding a global instrument to end plastic pollution as a critical milestone. Despite the need for significant political and diplomatic efforts, the “Chair’s text” served as a solid foundation for discussions. The necessity for nations to collaborate while committing to measures that eliminate plastic pollution, particularly in marine ecosystems, was reinforced. Meanwhile, the upcoming UN Ocean Conference in France was highlighted as an essential platform for ocean conservation and the sustainable use of marine resources.
As the year progresses, two major global events were identified as crucial for shaping the future of environmental action. COP30 in Brazil was recognized as a pivotal moment for climate action, while UNEA-7 was described as an opportunity to unify efforts in addressing interconnected environmental crises. These gatherings will influence global policies and reinforce the importance of cooperation in overcoming ecological challenges.
Amid these developments, UNEP’s commitment to transparency, efficiency, and accountability was reiterated. Since 2019, significant steps have been taken to enhance organizational performance, including quarterly business reviews and streamlined budgeting processes. However, the broader UN system acknowledged financial constraints as a challenge. Budgetary restrictions, hiring freezes, and operational limitations were reported to be affecting the implementation of vital environmental initiatives. Despite these challenges, we affirmed efforts to optimize resources and strengthen partnerships as ongoing priorities. UNEP acknowledged the financial contributions from member states as essential to its mission.
It was noted that, over the past five years, an increase in contributions had been observed, with the number of donors to the Environment Fund rising from 82 in 2019 to 94 in 2024. Additionally, financial support had grown from $70 million to $90 million, and more countries were reported to be meeting their full contributions. However, they emphasized the critical importance of continued support in sustaining UNEP’s effectiveness. They highlighted a significant funding shortfall for UNEA-7, identifying a gap of $1.7 million. Without sufficient resources, concerns were raised that participation from developing nations could be limited, thereby reducing the inclusivity and impact of the The assembly made a call for all member states to contribute toward bridging this financial gap, ensuring UNEA-7 remains a representative and effective forum.
The emphasis was on the need to maintain strong environmental action despite fiscal constraints. Scaling back on environmental commitments would be detrimental, and instead, we should intensify our efforts to build a sustainable future.
Despite the uncertainties faced, UNEP’s history of environmental leadership was reaffirmed. Since 1972, there have been efforts to implement policies that protect ecosystems, enhance human well-being, and foster economic resilience. The emphasis was on embracing the “Nairobi Spirit,” a spirit of collaboration, determination, and innovation, to navigate these challenges and drive progress.
The choices made today were described as defining the future of the planet. By maintaining a strong commitment to multilateralism and environmental stewardship, it was stated that a world where nature and humanity thrive together can be created. A final call was made for continued dedication, vision, and courage in the pursuit of a sustainable future.
Gratitude was extended to all participants, and a strong message of unity and action was conveyed.
