UNEA-7 Harnessing science and Indigenous knowledge for climate resilience and nature action: A focus on peatlands and coral reefs

Connecting global partnerships with science and the knowledge of Indigenous People has positive impacts and delivers results to support decision-making across cultures, sectors and continents.   

This event focuses on two at risk ecosystems - peatlands and coral reefs - highlighting the work, approaches and lessons from UNEP and our partners to restore, conserve and sustainably manage these vital ecosystems. Bringing together ministers, Indigenous leaders, scientists, and representatives from global partnerships, the event will feature some of our flagship collaborations from across Asia, Africa and Latin America.   

The opening segment highlights how UNEP and the Global Peatlands Initiative are advancing policy relevant science and action by linking Indigenous and local knowledge with global research. The next segment organised as a “lavvu dialoogue” will spotlight the wisdom of the Sámi and Dukha herders of the Arctic and Mongolia in restoring degraded lands and strengthening climate resilience through traditional pastoralist practices. The closing segment then moves from freshwater to the seas, celebrating Indigenous leadership in protecting coral reefs, closing with an inspiring video message from Jason Mamoa, UNEP’s advocate for Life Below Water.   

In the spirit of the UNEA-7 theme “Advancing sustainable solutions for a resilient planet” this event celebrates Indigenous leadership and local wisdom in restoring peatlands and coral reefs, and showcasing how science, culture, and collaboration can unite to drive lasting action for nature, people and planet. 

• Tuesday 9th December 
• 9:30AM - 12:00PM EAT 
• Livestream here.

The UN Environment Assembly (UNEA) is the most influential platform to deepen global cooperation on the environment. 

The seventh session of UNEA, to be held from 8 to 12 December 2025, comes at a time of unprecedented global upheaval, economic instability, and growing inequality. For over a decade, UNEA has united all 193 Member States, the UN system, civil society, and scientific and business community to shape global environmental policy. The Assembly offers a unique, powerful space to address environmental challenges, share opportunities and frame concrete solutions. More than 100 resolutions passed, signaling the Assembly’s growing importance as a calendar moment for multilateral environmental cooperation.