Water scarcity, a socio-environmental threat to anthropogenic activities and ecosystems alike, affects large regions of the globe. However, it is often the most vulnerable and disadvantaged populations that suffer the severest consequences, highlighting the role of economic and institutional factors in water scarcity. In this way, researchers generally consider not only the physical constraints but socio-economic determinants as well.

Rampant deforestation, uncontrolled expansion of agriculture, infrastructure development and exploitation of wild species have created a 'perfect storm' for the spillover of diseases from wildlife to people.

THE Oxford Dictionary describes the environment as "the surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates". Humankind has been reliant on the environment for its existence for as long as humans have been living on earth. In numerous ways, the future survival of humankind will depend on how we take care of our air, soil, rivers, oceans, animals and plants.

In these unusual and tragic times, I am indeed grateful that we are able to connect virtually to continue the business of environmental governance. While the efforts of all your capitals are correctly focused on preventing human suffering, as parts of the world move slowly towards recovery, the environmental agenda remains one of our most powerful insurance policies in preventing future global pandemics like COVID-19.

And against the backdrop of threatened lives, crippled businesses and damaged economies, the UN chief warned the Petersberg Climate Dialogue in Berlin that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are also under threat.

Ordinary citizens felt like they had been sold a bill of goods. They were right to feel conned.

Outcomes of the Meeting of the Friends of the Co-Chairs on liability and redress, Bonn, 7-10 May 2008