I joined Heads of state and government, ministers, business leaders, academics and civil society leaders at the Sixth Global Environment Facility Assembly. One of the most significant global gatherings of the year on the environment, a record replenishment of US$ 4.1 billion is testament of the critical role the Global Environment Facility plays in driving sustainable development around the world and safeguarding the global commons.
UN Environment was out in full force, hosting eight side events showcasing our work in the GEF partnership including on electric mobility, ocean governance, mercury-phaseout in artisanal and small scale mining; natural capital assessments and inclusive rice landscapes.
At a session on delivering transformation, I spoke about the important role that citizens can play in promoting stewardship of the planet. Global Environment Facility CEO Naoko Ishii laid out four priorities for us to protect the global commons and transform this planet: transform economic systems; change food and land use patterns, cities and energy sources; restore ecosystems; and move to a circular economy.
I also had the opportunity to speak to counterparts in Vietnam to explore ways to strengthen cooperation in forestry, water resources, and natural capital. I had a great discussion with Mr Tran Hong Ha, Minister for Natural Resources and Environment, Vietnam on key priorities of the country including plastic waste reduction, clean mobility, air pollution and sustainable rice initiatives.
