The International Day of Peace. An opportunity to reconnect with nature.

Today, 21 September, the International Day of Peace is observed around the world every year. Established in 1981 by unanimous United Nations resolution, it provides a globally shared date for all humanity to commit to peace above all differences. The 2021 theme is “Recovering better for an equitable and sustainable world”, aiming at building resilience, and transforming our world into one that is more equal, inclusive, sustainable, and healthier.

Making  peace with nature

The well-being of today and future generations depends on an urgent break with current trends of environmental decline, and the next decade will be crucial in this respect. Society needs to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 45% by 2030 compared to 2010 levels and reach net-zero emissions by 2050 to achieve the 1.5°C Paris Agreement target, while at the same time conserving and restoring biodiversity and minimizing pollution.

“Humanity is waging war on nature”, warned UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres in 2020, referring to how our consumption and production systems are destroying the environment. Now we have to make peace with nature.

On February 2021, the United Nations Environment Programme launched the Making Peace with Nature report, drawing a pathway towards a circular economy and a more equitable society that tackles climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution. A discussion that on this day is more fitting than ever.

From transforming nature to changing society

Society continues to exceed and degrade the Earth’s capabilities despite the clear risk this type of development poses to humanity. Transforming humanity’s relationship with nature is the key to a sustainable future. Only system-wide transformation will enable humanity to achieve well-being for all within the Earth’s finite capacity to provide resources.

Given the interconnected nature of the effects of climate change, it is also important to take actions that address the problem on multiple levels, even when the benefits may not be realised for years. This is the case with reforestation and restoration of degraded land, which may take decades for projects to have their full positive impact, but which at the same time reverse biodiversity loss and land, water and air degradation at the same time.