Counsellor Marissa Blackett’s statement stressed the importance of turning the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment into reality. Her address emphasized the centrality of this right in the face of the worsening climate crisis, pollution and biodiversity. She illustrated how this triple pronged crisis affects everyone on all corners of our planet and requires robust action in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Counsellor Blackett went on to describe the operations of Malteser International to illustrate the importance of multistakeholder collaboration and the inclusion of local actors. She highlighted our sustainable farming project in India, which enhances the agricultural practices of local farmers and connects them with the Indian government’s MGNREGA program. This initiative has included rainwater harvesting systems and has provided tanks to improve their access to water. She diligently illustrated the comprehensive approach of the Order and its multifaceted benefits throughout various levels of supply chains.

Counsellor Blackett concluded by urging the Third Committee to champion sustainable practices and to hold accountable those who prioritize profit over the well-being of humanity and our planet.