Regional environment heads advocate for actions towards a sustainable and robust Earth in the Asia-Pacific region

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the world's leading authority on the environment, recently concluded a significant forum in Nadi, Fiji. The Sixth Forum of Ministers and Environment Authorities of Asia Pacific was held from 26 to 29 August 2025, and was jointly organized by the Government of Fiji and UNEP.

The forum focused on a range of critical environmental issues, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. The Fiji Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, leading the nation's efforts to safeguard its natural environment and address the impacts of climate change, took the helm.

During the forum, five draft resolutions were introduced by member states for UNEA-7, the upcoming United Nations Environment Assembly. These proposals aimed to accelerate circular economy strategies, promote coral reef resilience, enhance youth participation in climate action, strengthen synergies in MEA implementation, and manage wildfires. The Chair's Summary, aiming to ensure the voice of Asia Pacific is heard at UNEA-7, identified these as priority environmental issues in the region.

UNEP's work extends across the globe, including the Asia Pacific, Global, India, Japan, South Korea, and Sri Lanka regions. The organisation supports nations in building low-carbon, nature-positive, and resource-efficient economies, and its efforts are directed towards oceans protection, biodiversity conservation, pollution reduction, and promoting climate resilience.

The forum concluded with a commitment to accelerate the implementation of UNEA resolutions, enhance ambition in climate and adaptation plans, and strengthen cooperation on key priorities such as ocean protection, plastic pollution, air quality, and sustainable resource use.

The Asia-Pacific Major Groups and Stakeholders Forum, convened ahead of the main event, emphasized the need for urgent, collective action to tackle the region's triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. The forum serves as the region's premier platform for advancing sustainable solutions and strengthening environmental resilience.

UNEA-7 will be held in Nairobi from 8 to 12 December 2025. Tuvalu announced its intention to submit resolutions on climate displacement and sea level rise for UNEA-7, adding to the agenda's importance.

Circular economy models, innovative financing, and science-based solutions were emphasized as critical drivers of change. As the world grapples with the triple planetary crisis, UNEP's work remains crucial in guiding nations towards a sustainable and resilient future.

Regional environment heads advocate for actions towards a sustainable and robust Earth in the Asia-Pacific region