United Nations Environment Association Meeting
“Towards a pollution free planet” Nairobi, 27th November – 6th. December, 2017
The third session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) took place in Nairobi from 4 – 6th December 2017. It was opened by Mr Edgar Gutierrez Espeleta, President of the Environment Assembly and had its theme as “Towards a pollution free planet.” The deliberations resulted in 11 adopted resolutions. Participants included Civil Society, Politicians, Private sector, Scientists among others. During discussions it was agreed that pollution is linked to loss of diversity, climate change and ecosystem degradation. There were urgent calls during presentations for action to be taken to change the trend for a better future. It was also noted that there is a strong link between environment and health.
Ms. Pratibha Patel and Ms. Dorcas Anusala, attended, participated and represented the Brahma Kumaris at the Assembly.
BKs with the Indian High Commissioner
Contribution from the Brahma Kumaris team.
The Faith-Based Organizations (FBO), being religious groups, operate within the teachings of their doctrine, guided by their religious books. Their teachings are never interrogated and the followers belief and practice what is taught. The teachings promote lifestyles informed by faith.
While different cultures may place emphasis on certain values, the FBOs promote virtues. Values and virtues together can be used to promote a sustainable lifestyle. To address issues to do with environmental degradation, we have to look at what the society values are. The FBOs will have a better understanding since they are part of the society. To turn the tide, they only need to use some practical examples, such as ‘why is our land less productive?’ Using this approach the community will start to find solutions to their problems and the available scientific evidence can be used to support their actions.
Through FBOs, a wider group can be reached. Beliefs, culture and religion cannot be challenged but can act as a knowledge-base upon which to achieve the desired results. Once it is understood that environment supports our survival and existence and from it we draw our livelihood, cooperation will be realized. Most cultures are entwined with environment and therefore it may not take time to get the message a cross.
Sister Pratibha presenting the ED, Erik Solheim with BK literature on Environment
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