During his inspirational lecture entitled ‘Cooling a Planet on Fire,’ the High Commissioner explored the intersection between nature and human rights. He reminded us that;
“We have a responsibility to treat our planet with respect; to protect its glaciers and forests; to support the diversity of species on land and in the sea; to keep our rivers and lakes clean; to preserve nature, including ourselves.”
He implored the audience to consider that the widespread misconception that nature is a hierarchy, with homo sapiens at its apex, is at the root of the planetary crises wreaking havoc across our world. Mr Türk also expressed his fear that, in a world torn apart by conflict, the existential threat of climate change has fallen off the radar and that;
“One of the greatest challenges we face in the world today is developing models of governance that integrate different worldviews and perspectives, including those that recognise the rights of nature.”
Before opening the floor to questions from students and fellows, the High Commissioner led the call to action for educators, researchers and academics that;
“We need a global movement for change, founded on human rights and human dignity, to transform our governance for the common good, and build a more sustainable future for all life on our shared planet.”
