Earth Day, observed annually on April 22, is an occasion to celebrate the planet and promote its preservation. Earth Day is a time for education and information to raise awareness on environmental issues: the pollution of air, water, and land, the destruction of ecosystems, the disappearance of thousands of species of plants and animals, and the depletion of non-renewable resources. The Centre of Global Studies (CGS) of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM) is deeply committed to addressing these challenges within the framework of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The health of humans, domestic and wild animals, plants, and the wider environment are closely linked and interdependent. Connecting humans, animals, and the environment can help address the full spectrum of disease and contribute to global health security. Earth Day is a reminder of the importance of environmental conservation and sustainability, encouraging everyone to act concretely against inequalities. 

The ongoing technological revolution shows the great potential of innovative technologies in helping to consolidate a culture of sustainability and good practices spreading through conscious political choices. Equally, the risks brought by the technological revolution show the urgency of new responsibilities and the need to rebuild new paths of trust and dialogue between governments, parliaments, universities, think tanks, and civil society organizations. PAM and CGS remain persistent in preserving ecosystems as humanity’s shared home, counteracting climate change, stopping biodiversity collapse, and providing the analytical tools to foster sustainable solutions for peace and security. As United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres stressed, “Mother Earth is the mother of all of humanity’s challenges. We must act – and act now – to create a better future for all of us.” 

Earth Day can be an opportunity to regain trust in building a shared future. The time is now!