Ulrika (Sweden): Stockholm Water Prize winner Dr Rajendra Singh, who is also known as the ‘Waterman of India’ for his pioneering work of reviving rivers in Rajasthan, has urged the United Nations to explore ways to promote science that saves nature and helps achieve sustainability. In a letter to the UN Secretary-General, he has urged the latter to provide guidelines to discourage rampant consumerism that promotes the extraction of nature.
In a letter to the UN Secretary-General António Guterres on behalf of the Sweden-headquartered People’s World Commission on Drought and Flood (PWCDF), that Dr Singh chairs, the ‘Waterman’, presented to him the Commission’s declaration that outlines strategic commitments and action plans aimed at achieving climate neutrality by 2050, enhancing resilience to droughts and floods, and ensuring sustainable and equitable access to water for all.
The Declaration, adopted on August 22, 2024, during the 7th edition of the ‘Water and Climate Sustainability Symposium’ held in Ulrika, Sweden, represents the collective commitment of a global coalition of leaders and experts dedicated to addressing the urgent challenges posed by climate change, particularly its profound effects on global water resources.
Key commitments within the Ulrika Declaration include:
- Climate Neutrality: Achieving climate neutrality by 2050 through the implementation of carbon-negative strategies, promotion of green energy, and development of circular economies.
- Integrated Water Management: Developing local solutions for global challenges by integrating water management practices with climate adaptation strategies, prioritizing conservation, and supporting low-carbon, biodiversity-focused solutions.
- Support for the UN SDGs: Aligning efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and COP goals, emphasizing public-private partnerships, renewable energy, and nature-based solutions.
- Innovation and Research: Promoting research and innovation to facilitate the transition to a climate-neutral economy, focusing on sustainable practices and advanced water management technologies.
- Community Engagement: Encouraging education, awareness, and community participation to empower individuals and communities in contributing to global climate action.
- Resilience Building: Strengthening infrastructure and governance frameworks to support long-term sustainability and climate resilience.
- Global Cooperation: Advocating for global solidarity and cooperation in addressing climate change challenges through concerted efforts at local, regional, and international levels.
Seeking the UN’s support in disseminating and implementing these strategies globally, Dr Singh sought Guterres’ “guidance and partnership as we work together to create a sustainable, resilient future for all”.
Dr Singh stated that the principles outlined in the Ulrika Declaration are aligned with the United Nations mission to foster global cooperation and sustainability.
– global bihari bureau
