Bold, Ambitious Action Key to Safeguarding Planet, Secretary-General Say in Video Message for Earth Hour 2021, Stressing Humankind Must ‘Make Peace with Nature’

(Delayed for technical reasons.)

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message for Earth Hour 2021, observed 27 March:

We need to make peace with nature.  Without nature’s help, we cannot thrive or even survive on this planet Earth.  Climate disruption, biodiversity loss and pollution threaten lives, jobs and health.  It’s time to re-evaluate and reset our relationship with nature.

2021 is a year to change course.  Solutions are available, affordable, practical and realistic.  We can provide renewable energy and sustainable food systems for all.  We can reduce emissions and use nature-based solutions to help us build a more resilient, carbon-neutral world.

We all must do our part to safeguard our planet.  Together, we can build a brighter and more prosperous future.  The United Nations is proud to join in the global effort to mark Earth Hour.

It’s a reminder that small actions can make a big difference.  So, join me and people everywhere by switching off your lights for an hour on Saturday, 27 March at 8:30 p.m., your local time.

In this “make-or-break” year, let your actions and voices send a clear message to leaders everywhere: now is the time to be bold and ambitious.  Let’s show the world that we are determined to protect the one home we all share.