UN Resident Coordinator Calls for global action to protect biodiversity at summit in Guyana

"The world is at a critical moment for protecting nature—and it’s time to turn promises into real action."

Jean Kamau, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Guyana, delivered a powerful message at the Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit: the world is at a critical moment for protecting nature—and it’s time to turn promises into real action.

Guyana’s Example: Protecting Nature and Supporting People

Kamau praised Guyana for showing how nature and development can go hand in hand. From its Low Carbon Development Strategy to its leadership in biodiversity and carbon credits, Guyana is proving that protecting the environment can also support economic growth and community wellbeing.

“In Guyana, biodiversity is not a concept—it is a way of life,” Kamau said. “It flows through the rivers, stands tall in the rainforests, sparkles along reef systems, and breathes in communities who have cared for this land for generations.”

She highlighted the special role of Indigenous peoples, calling them the “original stewards of biodiversity.” Their traditional knowledge, deep respect for the land, and sustainable practices are essential to helping the world live in balance with nature.

Progress, But Big Challenges Remain

Around the world, more countries are making progress in protecting the environment—but big challenges remain.

Biodiversity continues to be destroyed at record levels, driven by climate change, unsustainable land use, pollution and degradation. Even though Indigenous communities are key to protecting ecosystems, they are still often left out of important decisions. Many countries also struggle with a lack of money, data, and resources to meet global goals like protecting 30% of land and oceans by 2030.

The Opportunity: Act Now, Together

Despite the challenges, Kamau said the world has everything it needs to make real progress—the knowledge, the frameworks and the will.

“The opportunity before us is to align ambition with action,” she said.

She called on countries and communities to:

Put biodiversity at the heart of climate, agriculture, food systems, and finance

Support Indigenous leadership and local community efforts

Use ecological wealth from biodiversity credits to uplift economies

Work together to turn global plans into real results in people’s lives

From Promises to Progress

Kamau said the UN system is ready to help countries move from plans to action—by supporting local data systems, community-led monitoring, inclusive decision-making, and helping to unlock financing for countries championing the biodiversity agenda.

“Let us build a global alliance not only in name—but in sustained partnership, shared resources, and bold implementation.”

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This story was first pubished by UN Guyana.