More than 6,000 people, representing 186 countries, participated in the week-long meeting held at the headquarters of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).
Wide-ranging resolutions
UNEA-7 resolutions cover topics such as the sound management of minerals and materials essential for the shift towards clean energy, international cooperation to combat forest fires, and greater protection of coral reefs and glaciers.
The ministerial statement outlined the commitment to bold actions that drive sustainable solutions, such as promoting local and national zero waste initiatives.
It also called for implementing obligations under multilateral environmental agreements and frameworks, as well as promoting equitable and inclusive participation in all efforts.
Overcoming differences
In her closing remarks, UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen recalled that participants came to Nairobi to show the determination and solidarity needed to address environmental challenges that threaten to undermine economies and societies.
“You’ve done it,” he said. “The beacon of environmental multilateralism that rises above the fog of geopolitical differences shines a little brighter today.”
He noted that the assembly had also approved UNEP’s Medium Term Strategy (MTS) for the next four years.
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While Member States also handed over new mandates to UNEP, in addition to the existing ones, he urged countries to make all their contributions so that it can achieve results “with results and impact”.
“Now they will return to the world outside the negotiating rooms. A world where – let us not forget in the midst of our euphoria – people are dying, homes and livelihoods are being destroyed, economies are being damaged and inequality is increasing because action to address environmental challenges has not been fast or strong enough,” Ms Andersen said.
“Yes, they have illuminated the lighthouse and better illuminated the path forward. But now, together, we must accelerate this path to fulfill our collective promise to deliver real solutions for a resilient planet and people.”
The Paris Agreement turns 10 years old
Friday also marked 10 years since the adoption of the Paris Agreement on climate change, which Ms. Andersen also highlighted in her remarks.
The landmark treaty, signed by 194 countries and the European Union, aims to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
UN Secretary General António Guterres used the anniversary to call for more climate action.
“A decade ago, the world found the courage to adopt the Paris Agreement, a pillar of hope for humanity.” he said in a tweet.
“Today we must find courage once again. The climate crisis is one of the defining challenges of our time. Together, we can – and must – build a livable future for all.”