‘Humanity’s relationship with the natural world is broken…The good news is that nature, if given half a chance, can bounce back’

The quote reports a statement included in pre-session document UNEP/EA.6/2 ‘Effective, inclusive and sustainable multilateral actions to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution’, presented at the sixth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) and which also represents the overall theme of the agenda. UNEA sessions started on 26 February and will run up to 1 March 2024 at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya.

To help restore harmony between humanity and nature and contrast the triple planetary crises (climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, pollution and waste), it is crucial that the United Nations, Member States and stakeholders work together on policies that prioritize the One Health approach, which conceives health of humans, animals, and environment closely linked and interdependent.

In addition, the essential role animal welfare does play in sustainable development as stated in the Nexus resolution adopted by UNEA in 2022, a pillar document proposed by our fellows of World Federation for Animals, which recognizes the evident connection between animal welfare, the environment and sustainable development, must be strengthened and included into other resolutions.

Recently, WFA published Perspectives Issue 46, titled “Earth’s Hidden Climate Allies”. Link
In this Issue, World Federation for Animals discusses how wild animals, including elephants, whales, wolves, and sea otters, play a vital role in ensuring the ecological balance of their habitats, supporting carbon storage, and ensuring a diverse ecosystem. It further explores the strategies in which humans and animals can thrive in harmony.

UNAE-6 website: https://www.unep.org/environmentassembly/unea6

Outcomes from UNEA-6 analysed from World Federation for Animals: UNEA-6 Impact on Animals: Key Resolutions Explained (wfa.org)

Protecting our Planet starts with our daily actions
 Play your part!