South Africa has successfully pushed for environmental crimes and air quality to be officially included on the G20 agenda—marking the first time these critical issues have received formal recognition at the global economic forum.
The achievement came under South Africa’s presidency of the G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group and resulted in two landmark outcomes: the Ministerial Declaration on Crimes that Affect the Environment and the Cape Town Ministerial Declaration on Air Quality.
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dion George, said on Monday that the move reflects South Africa’s commitment to tackling issues that directly affect citizens’ health and natural heritage.
“These are not abstract concerns—they speak to the air our people breathe, the safety of our natural environment, and the rule of law that protects it,” George stated. “Under South Africa’s leadership, we ensured these issues were placed firmly at the top of the global agenda.”
Environmental crimes—including illegal wildlife trade, deforestation, unregulated mining, and waste trafficking—pose growing threats to biodiversity, livelihoods, and global stability. Meanwhile, air pollution remains a leading cause of premature death worldwide, particularly among vulnerable communities.
The Cape Town declarations call for stronger international cooperation, improved monitoring and data systems, and greater financial support for communities most affected by pollution and environmental damage. G20 members also pledged to integrate environmental protection into broader policy areas and promote fair access to clean air and natural resources.
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“These outcomes will feed into the G20 Leaders’ Declaration at next month’s summit in Johannesburg,” George said. “This is what global leadership means—practical cooperation that protects people, nature, and shared prosperity.”
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Source:Africa Publicity
