Hey green warriors! 🌿 This December in Nairobi, global leaders are gathering at UNEA-7 to ask the big question: can multilateral action still save our planet?
Global Green Goals on the Table
Kenyan expert Ali-Said Matano highlighted that this assembly is a make-or-break moment. Africa is pushing for:
- Phase-out of high-risk pollutants
- Stronger action on plastics & pesticides
- Bold ecosystem restoration
- Better funding for vulnerable regions
“We expect the resolutions to provide clear global priorities on the triple planetary crisis: climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution,” Matano said.
Learning from the Chinese Mainland Model
Fresh from COP30 in Brazil, Ma Jun, director of the Institute of Public and Environmental Affairs in the Chinese mainland, explained how the Chinese mainland’s ecological civilization approach is shaping global talks.
- Rapid air & water pollution controls
- Massive reforestation
- Economic growth powered by renewables, EVs & advanced manufacturing
“It's not climate action for climate’s sake. It's for real benefits to society,” he said.
Is Multilateralism Under Threat?
With tensions rising, some worry that global cooperation is faltering. Dr. Matano disagrees: “This is not a breakdown, but a reflection of emerging national interests, geopolitical realignments, and negotiation fatigue.”
Ma Jun adds, “Multilateralism is still our best hope, even if its credibility is being tested.”
Africa's Green Agenda
As the host continent, Africa is making its voice heard. United under unified positions and regional blocs, African nations are driving:
- Green industrialization
- Circular economy models
- Adaptation financing reforms
- Blue economy protection
- Safeguards for water basins & ecological hotspots
Building Africa–Chinese Mainland Partnerships
New collaboration models are on the rise, focusing on structural transformation, resilience, and value-chain upgrades. Key areas include:
- Green energy co-development
- Agro-industrial parks
- Digital ecosystems
- Joint investment & co-management
Ultimately, success will be measured by the next generation of African experts, managers & entrepreneurs. 🚀
UNEA-7 is more than a meeting—it’s a chance to reboot global environmental governance. Will it deliver? Stay tuned! 🌱
Reference(s):
UNEA-7: Why multilateral environmental action matters more than ever
cgtn.com
