G7 summit did little to solve global environmental crisis

(EurActiv, 28 Aug 2019) Environment, biodiversity and the climate were all on the agenda during the three days of the G7 summit held on 24-26 August in Biarritz, France. However, few concrete decisions were taken. EURACTIV’s partner Le Journal de l’environnement reports.

During the G7 summit, French President Emmanuel Macron attempted to mobilise states on topics as diverse as gender equality, relations with Africa, wartime sexual violence, and the impending economic recession.

In addition to this relatively consensual programme, other issues were also discussed. The summit’s agenda included the issue of taxing the digital sector or relaunching negotiations with Iran on the nuclear deal, with some results in the end.

This was not the case when it comes to the environment, despite biodiversity and “protecting the planet” being among the summit’s “main priorities”.

Biodiversity Charter 

Admittedly, the heads of state and government adopted the Metz Biodiversity Charter, which had been approved by a dozen environment ministers on 6 May.

The document, with its carefully chosen wording, aims to strengthen and improve “biodiversity policies, action plans and research programmes.” However, the text does not provide any additional details.

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EurActiv, 28 Aug 2019: G7 summit did little to solve global environmental crisis