UNESCO Director-General on World Environment Day: Protecting Nature Is the Most Effective Way to Safeguard Humanity’s Future

Message from Khaled El-Enany, UNESCO Director-General, on the Occasion of World Environment Day
5 June 2026

On this World Environment Day, UNESCO reaffirms that protecting nature is the most effective way to safeguard humanity’s future.

This year’s theme, “Inspired by Nature; For Climate; For Our Future,” reminds us that nature must be at the heart of climate action. Nature-based solutions can deliver up to 30% of the emissions reductions needed by 2030. Yet glaciers and snow reserves, which store nearly 70% of the world’s freshwater, are retreating at an alarming rate, while more than 3.6 billion people live in areas that are highly vulnerable to climate change.

Highlighting the Organization’s environmental initiatives, the UNESCO Director-General added: “At UNESCO, we work every day to advance nature-based solutions. Our World Network of Biosphere Reserves now comprises 784 sites in 142 countries. Together with 226 World Natural Heritage sites and 229 Global Geoparks, these sites demonstrate how biodiversity conservation, sustainable livelihoods and Indigenous knowledge can advance simultaneously and reinforce one another.”

He also emphasized UNESCO’s support for international cooperation on freshwater, ocean sciences and climate resilience, stating: “From the publication of the United Nations World Water Development Report 2026 to the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, which has now reached its midpoint, and the new agreement on marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, all these initiatives demonstrate the importance of global cooperation in protecting the environment.”

In closing, Khaled El-Enany called on governments, local communities and all citizens to take urgent and responsible action to protect nature and address climate challenges, guided by science, solidarity and cooperation.