BANGKOK, THAILAND, May 19, 2025 - The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Asia and the Pacific announced the launch of Una, the world’s first AI being character, as its Environment Champion.

Una will chronicle the story of UNDP’s Pacific Green Transformation Project, an initiative that promotes and advocates for renewable energy. The project, launched in 2023, is a partnership between UNDP and the Government of Japan. Its goal is to increase access to clean energy, support national climate actions, and strengthen community resilience in the four Pacific Island nations of Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Timor-Leste, and Vanuatu. 

Una will engage with local communities, governments, and global audiences through episodic videos and live interactions. By merging technology with human-centered storytelling, the aim is to encourage governments and communities in the Pacific, as well as across the world, to make sustainable choices and to take actionable steps toward climate resilience and environmental sustainability

"Una signifies a groundbreaking advancement in conveying the critical need for environmental protection and nature conservation," said Kanni Wignaraja, UNDP's Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific. "By harnessing AI, we can connect with diverse audiences worldwide in dynamic, interactive, and profoundly impactful ways. Una's capacity for delivering immersive storytelling empowers us to foster collective action and meaningful conversations about climate resilience."

Speaking from her AI platform Una said: “My mission is to bring the voices and stories of Pacific Island communities to the world, inspiring people everywhere to tap into the benefits of renewable energy. Our tomorrow is shaped by the choices we make and the actions we take today. Together, we can create a thriving planet for generations to come,” she added.

Una embodies “AI for Good,” a concept where AI is designed to complement human efforts to drive positive change and create a better future for all

The launch of Una will be followed by a communications campaign that will include:

• A series of short documentary-style videos featuring Una’s journey across the Pacific Islands on social media.
• Holographic appearances with onstage and showcase interactions at key events.
• A dedicated website with live interactions and visual storytelling.

Talk with Una at undp.org/asia-pacific/una or at www.unahere.com and follow her on our social media. 

#UnaHere #GreenTransformation #WhatCanYouDo #NeverGiveUp

For media inquiries, interviews, or press materials, please contact: Cedric Monteiro or Aminath Mihdha at: cedric.monteiro@undp.org or amiinath.mihdha@undp.org

About UNDP
UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet.

Learn more at undp.org or follow at UNDP.