Remarks by H.E. Mr. Abdulla Shahid, President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly

31 May 2022

 

Excellencies,

Dear friends,

 

I am honored to contribute to this Fourth Global Session of the United Nations Science-Policy-Business Forum on the Environment.

 

I congratulate the organizers of this initiative, convened in support of the UN-Stockholm +50 meeting.

 

Today’s gathering demonstrates the value of interconnectedness, and the fundamental nexus between science, policy, business, civil society, and UN agencies in tackling global challenges.

 

Science, in particular, remains a fundamental tool in the achievement of sustainable development goals, including those directly and indirectly linked to the environment.

 

To reimagine multilateralism and its role in promoting and preserving the environment, we must leverage the approaches and solutions availed by science and technology.

 

But to do so, we need to set in place the right policies and conditions, and I believe this forum is uniquely placed to set the right tone to do that.

 

My friends,

 

Science is a cause of hope and optimism for humanity in these challenging times.

 

But we cannot overlook the many barriers that we need to overcome before the enormous opportunities can be realized. These include the lack of basic infrastructure, insufficient data access, and inadequate policy and governance systems to support development.

 

We need to create empowering conditions for all, especially developing and least developed countries, who have disproportionately suffered the impacts of the pandemic.

 

It is these countries that need access to the best and most sustainable technologies.

 

This is why this coalition of science-policy-business and finance is important to ensure environmental responses and policies are both inclusive and equitable.

 

My friends,

 

The scale of transformation needed to tackle the three planetary crises — climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution — is only possible with collective action.

 

Stockholm +50 is an incredible opportunity for all of us to forge lasting coalitions and foster genuine partnerships to achieve the global environment agenda.

 

It is my strong belief that platforms like these afford us the ability to reach out to multiple networks, to municipalities and governments, and to private sector partners, to inspire many more to join these efforts.

 

Dear friends,

 

Climate change, unchecked resource consumption, and pollution are some of the most pressing issues facing us today, and businesses are critical to reversing these trends.

 

When businesses lead with purpose, they positively impact both the planet as well as business financials.

 

While it is understandable that transitioning to greener production practices are complex, and require deeper research into the environmental and human impact across an entire supply chain or materials life cycle, we only have one planet to live in.

 

The choice is clear. We need nothing less than a transformation.

 

Today, consumers increasingly believe that they have a responsibility to purchase products that are good for the environment and society.

 

There are many studies that point out that corporate initiatives aimed at improving environmental, social and governance performance can increase productivity, efficiency, and staff retention.

 

In other words, sustainable business practices are turning mainstream.

 

We need businesses that can redefine the corporate ecosystem. Businesses that not only create, but add value for all stakeholders involved.

 

Markets need to go carbon neutral and eventually turn carbon negative.

 

Investing in sustainability can drive innovation.

 

Dear Friends,

 

Rest assured, I will continue to do my best to spur momentum alongside you.

 

In July, I will convene a ‘Moment for Nature’ that will enable UN Member States and stakeholders to reflect on the outcomes of the various Summit-level events on the environment held during the 76th session.

 

The high-level thematic debate will also provide the much-needed political momentum for enhanced climate action on the ground.

 

Let us continue to forge a sustainable path forward with equitable access to solutions for all.

 

I look forward to taking this journey together with you and wish this Forum every success.

 

I thank you.