The 6th Session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) in Nairobi, Kenya concluded with the agreement on fifteen resolutions, two decisions, and a ministerial declaration. The session lasted over the course of 10 days and focused on crucial environmental issues.
One of the key resolutions from the assembly is the emphasis on an integrated strategy for managing water resources for agricultural and industrial purposes. This resolution highlights the need to strengthen implementation efforts, especially in developing countries.
Another important resolution addressed the issue of air pollution and aimed to improve national air quality monitoring, capacity building, and coordination to enhance air quality. The goal is to develop and implement action plans and policies to combat air pollution effectively.
The assembly also discussed land degradation and stressed the importance of advancing land conservation and sustainable land management practices. The resolution aims to achieve land degradation neutrality and build resilience to drought.
Additionally, the governance resolution aims to enhance synergies in the implementation of Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs). This includes capacity-building efforts, cooperation with UN Country Teams, reporting processes, and resource mobilization.
The Ministerial Declaration acknowledged the urgent environmental crisis and recognized the impact of various environmental challenges. It endorsed past declarations and agreements, outlining ten specific actions for environment ministers to implement.
During the opening ceremony, UNEA-6 President, H.E. Leila Benali, called for a holistic approach involving all sectors of society to address environmental issues. She stressed the importance of partnerships with vulnerable communities, ensuring no one is left behind in environmental efforts.
Chairman of the Environment Authority of Oman Abdullah Bin Ali Amri was invited to assume the role of the next UNEA President, symbolizing the passing of the torch. Executive Director of UNEP, Inger Andersen, affirmed the commitment to implementing the new resolutions and monitoring environmental matters.
The importance of urgent action, swift implementation, and lasting transformations was emphasized by the Executive Director. UNEA-6 provided momentum for facilitating changes and ensuring a secure and sustainable environment for all individuals on Earth.
