The European Union made such a big contribution to UN Environment Assembly, because we worked together - Main contents

The Third Session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA) was the most successful so far. “Towards a Pollution Free Planet” was the theme. For the first time, we had formal conclusions. These represent political commitment to act on pollution. In particular we agreed to act on the scourge of plastic waste. From a global perspective and from an EU perspective, we can be proud.

The European Union, our Environmental Agency, Development and research experts, Member State Representatives and Commission staff, showed just how much can be done when everyone is working together. Our shared sense of purpose helped set the agenda. UNEA adopted the EU’s flagship proposal for a resolution which addresses the close links between environment and health.

In doing this, we are directly addressing the concerns of Europeans. A recent Eurobarometer survey showed that waste, air quality and plastic pollution were the major environmental concerns. These concerns are shared across member states, by young and old and by rich or poor.

The successful adoption of the resolution submitted by the EU at UNEA, as well as the announcement of twenty voluntary commitments, showed how Europe is setting the pace on international environmental action. Our innovative policy and funding initiatives on this issue confirm once again that the EU remains a leading player on international environmental issues.

In January the European Union will again demonstrate that commitment must be followed by action. We will follow up with ambitious proposals in our Plastics Strategy. This is the jewel in our circular economy crown. It will start the New Year on a very positive note. It will ensure that we keep the momentum of UNEA going. And it will send the positive message to international partners that our success is there to be shared.

Thanks to Erik Solheim's leadership and the spirit of cooperation he instilled, the Ministerial Declaration, adopted at UNEA, clearly outlined the negative impacts of pollution and the need to address them at all levels. By highlighting the importance of tackling pollution for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, the ministerial declaration was able to soar.

The first and second sessions of UNEA tackled and adopted resolutions on major issues of illegal trade in wildlife, oceans, air quality, environmental rule of law, financing the Green Economy, the Sustainable Development Goals, and “delivering on the environmental dimension of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”.

I was also delighted with the intense involvement of private sector and civil society. This showed consistency with the important role they play in tackling pollution. In addition, private sector displayed solutions and technology to fight pollution at the Innovative Solutions Forum Expo.

The outcomes built on the latest findings reported by UN Environment Programme and other relevant bodies who highlight the significant impact of pollution. It is estimated that 9 million people die prematurely each year due to disease caused by pollution. Health impacts and impairment of natural resources result in an enormous social and economic cost to society. For example, in 2013, the global welfare costs associated with air pollution were estimated at some USD 5.11 trillion.

The stark evidence is there. The need for action is now. I am proud that the EU is leading the way.