UNDP Concerned About Over-Exploitation of Natural Resources, Pollution Globally
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has observed that the over-exploitation of natural resources and pollution have led to increased natural disasters across the globe.
Speaking at the 5th Environmental Protection Dialogue (EPD) organized by Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) in Lusaka, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative for Zambia Laurent Rudasingwa, said a healthy environment is crucial for the full enjoyment of human rights, including the right to a dignified life, health, housing, clean water, and sanitation.
Mr. Rudasingwa warned that without a healthy environment, extreme global trends, such as Zambia’s current droughts, could become more frequent and intense.
He highlighted the event’s consistent success over the past five years, attributing it to the strong and positive efforts of the participants, and called for changes to reverse these detrimental developmental gains.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed deep inequalities in wealth distribution, resources, justice, and security.”
“The triple threats of biodiversity loss, pollution, and climate change disproportionately affect the most vulnerable, marginalized, and excluded communities,” Mr. Rudasingwa stated.
He emphasized the critical connection between human rights and environmental protection, making the pursuit of environmental justice a priority.
Mr. Rudasingwa reiterated UNDP’s commitment to promoting greater access to justice for those affected by environmental issues and strengthening legal frameworks and institutions.
Meanwhile, CEJ Board Member Edah Chimya Gondwe highlighted the growth and influence of the platform since its inception in 2020, emphasizing the relevance of the theme “Strengthening Environmental Law for Thriving Communities” to the current challenges faced by the nation.
Ms. Gondwe said the Environmental Protection Dialogue has evolved into a space for diverse stakeholders to engage, collaborate, and find solutions to environmental challenges.
“The CEJ has always believed in the power of dialogue to drive positive environmental action.”
“This year’s dialogue marks a milestone, bringing together a broad coalition of government ministries, civil society, traditional leaders, corporate partners, the private sector, international agencies, and communities, all sharing a vision for a sustainable future,” she noted.
She stressed the importance of having robust legal and institutional frameworks to address these issues, emphasizing that environmental laws form the backbone of efforts to protect natural resources and promote sustainable development.
Ms. Gondwe however pointed out that laws alone are not enough, noting that effective implementation, compliance, and enforcement are crucial.
She therefore stressed the need for collective action to ensure that environmental laws benefit the people, especially vulnerable and marginalized communities who often bear the brunt of environmental degradation.
