"We are harming the natural world -- to our own detriment," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a message on World Environment Day. He also appealed entire world to change course on the environment.
"We need our entire global community to change course. Let's rethink what we buy and use; adopt sustainable habits, farming and business models; safeguard remaining wild spaces and wildlife; commit to a green and resilient future," Antonio Guterres quoted.
Habitat degradation and biodiversity loss are accelerating. Climate disruption is getting worse. Fires, floods, droughts and superstorms are more frequent and damaging. Oceans are heating and acidifying, destroying coral ecosystems, noted Guterres.
"And now, a new coronavirus is raging, undermining health and livelihoods. To care for humanity, we must care for nature," he said. "As we work to build back better, let's put nature where it belongs -- at the heart of our decision-making."