TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT
THE CONTEXT: The Sixth United Nations Environmental Assembly (UNEA-6) is reaching its conclusion after a week-long deliberation on March 1, 2024.
EXPLANATION:
- During this crucial assembly, at least 12 resolutions are set to be adopted, with a focus on addressing the pressing global issues of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.
Resolutions and Their Origin
- Draft Resolutions:
- The Committee of Whole (CoW), a pivotal component of the UNEA structure, has already endorsed 12 draft resolutions, with nine being new.
- These resolutions aim to urge member states to take concrete actions against the triple threats of climate change, loss of biodiversity, and pollution.
- Withdrawn Resolutions:
- Out of the 24 initially tabled drafts, five have been withdrawn by their proponents.
- The remaining are undergoing further deliberations.
- Funding Mechanisms:
- Three resolutions are dedicated to the administration of funds and funding mechanisms, including those related to the Global Environmental Facility and the organization of UNEA-7 in 2025.
International Deliberations
- Open-Ended Informal Meetings:
- Various countries, including Ukraine, Costa Rica, Saudi Arabia, the Netherlands, Ethiopia, and the European Union, hosted “open-ended informal meetings” on the penultimate day.
- These discussions centered around different resolutions, fostering international cooperation.
- Clusters of Emphasis:
- The draft resolutions are divided into four clusters, emphasizing the need for “environmental multilateralism” – collaborative actions and approaches to combat the climate crisis by diverse actors.
Key Resolutions Set for Adoption
- Chemicals and Waste Management:
- A resolution on sound management of chemicals and waste is among those set for adoption.
- Air Quality Improvement:
- Another resolution focuses on promoting regional cooperation on air pollution to enhance air quality globally.
- Combatting Sand and Dust Storms:
- UNEA-6 is also set to consider a new resolution on combating sand and dust storms, recognizing their environmental impact.
- National Action for Environmental Challenges:
- A draft resolution calls for fostering national action through increased cooperation between different actors to address environmental challenges.
Additional Endorsements by CoW
- Role of Regional Forums:
- The CoW has endorsed a draft emphasizing the role and viability of regional environment ministerial forums and regional offices in achieving multilateral cooperation.
- Synergies and Cooperation:
- Another endorsed draft focuses on promoting synergies, cooperation, or collaboration for national implementation of multilateral environmental agreements and other relevant instruments.
Pending Resolution on Environmental Assistance
- Ukraine’s Proposal: Ukraine has sponsored a resolution calling for environmental assistance and recovery in areas affected by armed conflicts. This resolution is yet to reach the CoW for adoption.
Legal Status of Resolutions
- While the resolutions play a critical role in guiding the actions of the 180+ member countries, it’s essential to note that they are not legally binding.
- Instead, they serve as guides for member states in implementing activities and plans impacting the environment and the planet’s wellbeing.
Finalization and Exact Wording
- The final wording of the resolutions is expected to be determined during their tabling on March 1, marking the official conclusion of UNEA-6.
United Nations Environmental Assembly:
- It is the governing body of the UN Environment Programme.
- It is the world’s highest-level decision-making body on the environment.
- The Assembly is made up of the 193 UN Member States and convenes every two years to advance global environmental governance.
- It was created in June 2012, during the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, also referred to as RIO+20.
