ADDRESSING THE TRIPLE PLANETARY CRISIS

Over the past century, our planet has faced an unprecedented decline in natural resources and ecological stability.

Driven by human activities such as deforestation, overfishing, and pollution, these challenges are rooted in unsustainable production and consumption patterns.

At its core, this crisis reflects our underestimation of nature’s value in our global systems and daily lives.

UNDP is not alone in sounding the alarm on biodiversity loss and climate change.

UNDP estimates approximately 1 million species of an estimated 8 million species today, are currently threatened with extinction.

Much of this is due to human activities and the impacts of climate change.

This decline is unprecedented in human history.

We are now witnessing, what many have come to accept, is the sixth great extinction.

It is not without good reason that the United Nations has declared this decade as the Decade of Ecosystem Restoration, a rallying cry to stem biodiversity loss, reverse climate change and enhance food security.

Habitat destruction, overexploitation of natural resources, pollution, climate change, and invasive species have led to substantial alterations in terrestrial and marine ecosystems.

Today, over 75% of the Earth's land surface and 66% of marine environments have been significantly changed by human actions.

The implications for economic stability and human well-being are profound.

UNDP estimates, that the value of ecosystem services – that is, the value of clean water, air and land – is worth approx. USD 44 trillion to the global economy or half the world’s GDP.

Our global consumption patterns are unsustainable. And the disparity is stark, with high income / highly developed economies the worst offenders.

For example, high-income countries consume, on average, 7 times more than low-income countries. 

As Malaysia pursues high-income status, it is critical we all ensure resources are managed sustainably. 

Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS 2030) serves as an exemplary model, anchored on three pillars: 

• Economic Prosperity
• Inclusive Society, and
• Environmental Sustainablity

Sarawak’s foresight demonstrates that economic growth does not automatically necessitate increased consumption.

This all seems daunting. 

But, together – change is possible. 

To transition from nature-negative to nature-positive, we must conserve and restore more of the planet’s land, water, and oceans. 

We must adopt regenerative agriculture practices, embrace sustainable production and consumption patterns. 

We must assign the true economic value of nature-based solutions and conservation. 

While estimates vary, there are growing examples of how what some of these returns on investment will yield. 

For example, UNDP estimates that for every $1 made in sustainable ocean investments, we will see an approximate return of $5. 

Tonight’s launch of Sarawak’s Biodiversity Policy and Master Plan encapsulates these nature-positive actions and measures, guided by key principles. 

Protecting and restoring Sarawak’s rich biodiversity is crucial for halting nature loss, safeguarding carbon sinks, and preventing ecosystem collapse, upon which every Sarawakian life depends.