Newsletter 23 Jun 2025
Environment: What’s Up in GENeva | 23 – 29 June 2025
The Geneva Environment Network’s weekly newsletter includes the latest information on the global environmental agenda, main events, job vacancies, as well as other useful resources and updates. Stay tuned and follow us on X (Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Bluesky, and Youtube, or visit our website regularly for additional updates.
Image of the week | 2050Today organized, in cooperation with the Canton and the City of Geneva, a visit to Domaine Rigot in the heart of the International Geneva, on 19 June 2025. The project to upgrade this area began in 2014, and took an in-depth approach to preserving and restoring the site heritage, creating an ecosystem rich in biodiversity. The area also includes an urban nursery aiming to strengthen urban tree coverage by selecting plant species suited to the local environment, as well as a collective urban vegetable garden. © UNEP/GEN, Jonas Huyghebaert
Trifecta of Science-Policy Panels to Address the Triple Planetary Crisis
Last week, in Punta del Este, Uruguay, Member States proved that environmental multilateralism is alive and delivering by establishing the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Panel on Chemicals, Waste and Pollution (ISP-CWP). Together with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), the world now has three bodies to respond to the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and, as of last week, pollution. The foundational document establishing the Panel was adopted with bracketed text, and other documents were forwarded to the first meeting of the Panel, including on operating principles, scope and rules of procedure. Stressing about the lack of reference in the foundational document to human rights standards and principles such as equality and non-discrimination, gender equality, intergenerational equity, participation, transparency and accountability, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights highlighted its committment to work to strengthen a human rights-based approach in the work of this Panel. Indigenous Peoples called upon delegates to support their formal request to establish an Indigenous Peoples Advisory Committee as an integral part of the new panel, to ensure the mainstreaming of Indigenous Peoples’ rights, protections for Indigenous knowledge systems, and to ensure the full and effective participation of Indigenous Peoples. → Highlights available in the IISD Earth Negotiations Bulletin
“Today we made history. By agreeing to this critical science-policy panel on chemicals, waste and pollution prevention, we showed that multilateralism is alive and well. Even in deeply complex times we showed that, yet again, environmental multilateralism is delivering.
You have demonstrated that you know that global problems require global solutions. That you are determined to act in this regard. That you recognize each of the elements of the triple planetary crisis needs independent and inclusive science. Therefore, you have established this critical panel, completing the “trifecta” of science panels under the UN system.”
— Closing remarks of UNEP Executive Director, Inger Andersen, at the Intergovernmental meeting to establish a science-policy panel to contribute further to the sound management of chemicals and waste and to prevent pollution
From the very beginning, Switzerland has strongly supported the establishment of the panel and announced in a statement at the intergovernmental meeting establishing the panel its financial support and an invitation to host the first session of its plenary. Highlighting that Geneva is the global hub for chemicals, waste and ending pollution governance, Switzerland stressed that the new panel would benefit from being part of this vibrant ecosystem, proposing the interim secretariat of the panel to be located in Geneva.
Reactions and analyses include:
- Nations come together to establish new Intergovernmental Science-Policy Panel on Chemicals, Waste and Pollution | UNEP | 20 June 2025
- The Devil is in the Details: Member States Establish Science-Policy Panel on Chemicals, Waste and Pollution, With Key Elements Unresolved | CIEL | 20 June 2025
- Science Panel Established, but Protections for Environment and Health Remain in Limbo | IPEN | 20 June 2025
- IPCP Punta del Este Briefings Day 5 | Day 4 | Day 3 | Day 2 | Day 1 | Preparatory Meetings
The “trifecta” of Science-Policy Panels support Member States in taking political action to tackle the triple planetary crisis through the adopted global deals that set agreed goals and targets — and beyond: the Paris Agreement — agreed in Paris in December 2015 — for the Climate crisis, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework — agreed in Montreal in December 2022 — for the biodiversity loss crisis, and the Global Framework on Chemicals – For a Planet Free of Harm from Chemicals and Waste (GFC) — agreed in Bonn in September 2023 — for the pollution crisis. The first meeting of the Open-Ended Working Group for the GFC is convening in Punta del Este this week, from 24 to 27 June 2025. The meeting is preceded by the IOMC multi-stakeholder Workshop “Strengthening National Chemicals Legislation and Institutional Capacities”, concluding on 23 June, and Technical Briefings. → Follow the negotiations through the IISD Earth Negotiations Bulletin live coverage
Prepare and follow the OEWG-1 session:
- Access all documents on the OEWG-1 Website under the “Pre-Session Documents” tab and follow the plenaries through the webcast (to be announced on Monday evening)
- Read the summary of the Preparatory Briefing part of the Road to Punta del Este Series
- If you are not attending the meeting in Punta del Este, various OEWG-1 lunch time events and masterclasses offer hybrid participation → Find how to participate under the “Lunch Time Events” Tab and register for Chemicals management in the textile value chain – Developing an Implementation Programme under the Global Framework on Chemicals on 26 June 2025
- Other sessions taking place this week ahead of or in the margins of the GFC OEWG-1 include: Chemicals in Textiles: Why the Global Framework on Chemicals Matters | Ambition Loop and UNEP | 23 June 2025 | 15:00 CEST
Environment @ 59th Session of the Human Rights Council
As the 59th session of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC59) enters its second week in Geneva, the urgency of addressing the interlinked crises of climate, conflict, and human rights remains central. Opening the session, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk warned that “climate chaos is raging on” and highlighted the risk of sustainable development slipping out of reach as debt distress and shrinking development finance worsen for many frontline countries. He called for a fundamental shift toward human rights as the basis for global stability.
Building on this opening, environment-related discussions continue to take centre stage in week two. Informal consultations and interactive dialogues will advance deliberations on key draft resolutions, including the one on human rights and climate change, with growing attention on climate finance. Discussions on urgent human rights issues such as internal displacement are also ongoing. Side events this week will further explore intersections of environmental justice, migration, and corporate accountability, underscoring the Council’s increasing focus on the human rights dimensions of environmental and climate challenges. Important discussions will also take place this week on the human rights to safe clean water and sanitation, in the run-up to the 2026 UN Water Conference.
Events and deadlines of particular interest this week include:
- Interactive Dialogue with SR on internally displaced persons (cont’d) | 23 June 2025 | 10:00 – 11:45 CEST | Palais des Nations, Room XX & Online
- Upholding health equity: Access to medical products and reproductive rights | 23 June 2025 | 12:00 – 13:00 CEST | Palais des Nations, Room XXVII & Online | South Centre
- Protection of People on the Move in the Americas | HRC59 Side Event | 23 June 2025 | 14:00 – 15:00 CEST | Palais des Nations, Room XXV | Franciscans International
- Interactive Dialogue with IE on international solidarity | 23 June 2025 | 17:15 CEST onwards | Palais des Nations, Room XX & Online
- Interactive Dialogue with SR on extreme poverty | 25 June 2025 | 17:15 CEST onwards | Palais des Nations, Room XX & Online
- Panel discussion on the realization of the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation | 26 June 2025 | 10:00 – 12:00 CEST | Palais des Nations, Room XX & Online
- Protection of Internally Displaced Persons in the Context of Organized Criminal Activity | HRC59 Side Event | 26 June 2025 | 12:00 – 13:30 CEST | Palais des Nations, Room XXIV | Austria
- The Human Rights to Safe Drinking Water and Sanitation ahead of the 2026 UN Water Conference – Voices from Civil Society | HRC59 Side Event | 26 June 2025 | 14:00 – 15:00 CEST | Palais des Nations, Room XXIV & Online | Germany and Spain
- Draft Proposals | Submission Deadline | 27 June 2025 | 13:00 CEST
- Informal consultations on various draft resolutions will continue this week:
- Draft resolution on human rights and climate change | Bangladesh, Philippines and Viet Nam
- Draft resolution on the safety of journalists | Austria, Brazil, France, Greece, Morocco, Qatar and Tunisia
- Draft resolution on the civil society space | Ireland, Chile, Japan, Sierra Leone and Tunisia
→ Consult regular updates on key environmental issues at HRC59, side events, and further resources available on our dedicated HRC59 and the environment update.
Geneva Academic & Local Authorities Experts Gathering at the International Environment House
This week, experts from Geneva’s environmental academic institutions and authorities will gather at the International Environment House for key discussions around environmental policy-making and multiple aspects of sustainability:
- The 2025 edition of the Geneva Science & Policy for Environmental Action Summer School will visit the International Environment House, on Tuesday, 24 June 2025. This summer course targets early career researchers, policy professionals, and civil society actors to immerse them in International Geneva dynamics of science-based global policymaking, with its rather unique ecosystem of international organizations, NGOs, diplomatic missions, think tanks, donors, and research institutions. Geneva-based international experts contributing to the global environmental agenda will be sharing their experiences with the students.
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The 7th GE-EN-VIE Gathering “Global change: adapting through the foundation of life“ will be hosted at the International Environment House, on Tuesday, 24 June 2025. GE-EN-VIE is an interdisciplinary network supporting the Ecological Transition in Greater Geneva, founded by the State of Geneva, the University of Geneva and the HES-SO/Genève (HEPIA). It is designed to support knowledge and communication about the environment, to improve the quality of life in the broader Geneva region. To contribute to this transition, the GE-EN-VIE network compiles new knowledge on the environment (Laboratory) and records various indicators relating to the quality of the environment (Observatory). Through its Platform, the network provides the public and elected representatives with essential information to guide public policy and adapt behaviours. The event will feature a keynote address on the need to move to better sustainability discussions, followed by presentations and workshops, and conclude with a light reception. → Register to participate at the International Environment House II on 24 June from 15:30 CEST
Outcomes of WMO 79th Executive Council
The seventy-ninth session of the Executive Council (EC-79) of the World Meteorological Organization — the executive body of the WMO responsible for implementing the decisions made by Congress — concluded in Geneva on 20 June 2025. At WMO EC-79 Member States:
- Agreed on an action plan on Artificial Intelligence (AI). A Joint Advisory Group on Artificial Intelligence will inform WMO activities on the development and use of AI intelligence technologies in meteorology and hydrology. It will seek to accelerate integration of AI into the WMO infrastructure and research activities in collaboration with the public, private and academic sectors in applying AI and machine learning technologies to strengthen the entire weather, climate, water science to services value cycle. (EC Doc 4.1) → Read Press Release WMO faces the future, with action plan on Artificial Intelligence | 20 June 2025
- Established the agenda for an extraordinary World Meteorological Congress in October 2025, focusing on the Early Warnings for All initiative and AI.
- Agreed to accelerate the rollout of the Early Warnings for All initiative – WMO’s top overriding priority. (EC DOC 3.1)
- Endorsed the WMO Youth Action Plan, setting the stage for a more impactful and inclusive approach to youth engagement within WMO. The EC resolution recommends that the Extraordinary World Meteorological Congress in October 2025 adopt the Youth Action Plan. It invites Members to nominate a youth focal point to support the implementation of the plan. (EC Doc 7.4)
- Has given enthusiastic backing to a reinvigorated gender action plan to mainstream gender equality throughout the WMO community, highlighting that it is a prerequisite to enhancing the reach and effectiveness of meteorological, hydrological, and climate services globally.
- Endorsed future research and operational activities, including on greenhouse gas monitoring. (EC Doc 3.2)
- Reaffirmed its commitment to the global agenda, to strengthen partnerships and to raise the profile of WMO within the UN.
- Endorsed WMO’s active participation in the Fifth International Polar Year (IPY-5), scheduled for 2032–2033. The EC resolution requests its Panel of Experts on Polar and High Mountain Observations, Research and Services to coordinate the contribution of WMO to IPY-5 in collaboration with the engaged international organizations, and promote scientific cooperation, exchange and partnerships, and with the contribution of WMO structures.
- Agreed to resolutions to hone the governance and administration to ensure that WMO can maximize its effectiveness and achieve its mandate in an era of resource constraints and growing demands.
The meeting took place while the organization is celebrating its 75th anniversary, with a forward-looking approach emphasizing the value of WMO services to the global economy and society, and the potential to unlock even more benefits for the global good. WMO latest Bulletin highlights how marking over seven decades of successes in the areas of WMO´s core responsibilities – weather, climate and water, and of intensifying climate and geopolitical challenges, for which public and private sector engagement is essential for WMO to continue providing and expanding these indispensable services.
Plastics Treaty Updates | Road to INC-5.2 in Geneva
With now six weeks to the second part of the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment (INC-5.2), to convene at Palais des Nations from 5 to 14 August 2025, updates and upcoming events include:
- The deadline for registration to attend INC-5.2 for Members of the Committee and Media is 30 June 2025, 23:59 EAT (22:59 CEST). The deadline for observer organizations was on 6 June 2025. The INC Secretariat has announced that there will be no on-site registration.
- The INC Chair, H.E. Amb. Luis Vayas Valdivieso, is convening an in-person Heads of Delegation meeting from 30 June to 2 July 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya, preceded by regional consultations on Sunday 29 June in the same location. As highlighted in the Chair’s Note, the meeting aims to provide an opportunity for an exchange of views among Members in preparation for the conclusion of negotiations at INC 5.2.
- Kids’ Virtual Plastic Pollution Act-Athon | Beyond Plastics and Green Ivy Schools invite kids ages 7-13 to participate in a Virtual Plastic Pollution Act-Athon on 25 June 2025 at 14:00 ET (20:00 CEST).
- The artist Benjamin Von Wong will be building a giant sculpture on Place des Nations during the Plastics Treaty negotiation taking place in August. → If you want to get involved or support, . If you’re based in Geneva and can help collect plastics, check the Plastics Collection Guide. For more information, please consult the artist deck and see his past projects.
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Are you organizing conferences, receptions, artistic and cultural demonstrations in the margins of INC-5.2? Fill this form with information on your activities, they will feed our dedicated Plastics Treaty INC-5.2, which will provide an overview of the initiatives taking place outside of the Blue Zone of the formal conference and negotiations, as well as useful information for delegates.
Additional news include:
- The Global Plastics Treaty must include strict global controls on plastic waste trade | Sedat Gündoğdu, Jim Puckett, Kenan Gedik et al. | Cambridge University Press | 18 June 2025
- Microplastics Have a Concerning Effect on The Microbes in Our Gut | Science Alert | 18 June 2025
- What are the benefits of regulating chemicals of concern | Article 7 on Releases and Leakages: Why is this article important and what could be improved? | Scientists’ Coalition for an Ambitious Plastics Treaty | June 2025 → Access more resources by the Scientists’ Coalition for an Ambitious Plastics Treaty
- Plastics threaten ecosystems and human health, but evidence-based solutions are under political fire | The Conversation | 17 June 2025
- Releases and GHG Emissions Across the Entire Life Cycle of Plastics. Why Addressing Releases and Emissions Must Be a Direct and Clear Priority in the Global Plastic Treaty | Ambition Loop and Global Methane Hub | 2025
Climate Action Updates
With the World Meteorological Organization Council’s renewed efforts to respond to climate and weather changes, the ongoing Bonn Climate Change Conference advancing work ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference COP30 in Belém in November, HRC59 climate agenda, and other important meetings taking place, climate change continues high on the international and local environmental agendas:
- The State Council of Geneva has adopted the new 2025-2030 action plan for the cantonal climate plan. It aims to reduce direct greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 60% by 2030 and then achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The action plan emphasizes the need to protect the population and the environment from climate risks, which are increasing as global warming progresses, including through increased adaptation efforts for possible for extreme climatic events. The document also highlights links between the climate and biodiversity crises, proposing actions aimed at preserving aquatic ecosystems, soils and subsoils, and wooded areas. Stressing reducing GHG emissions and adapting to climate change cannot be the sole responsibility of the public administration, the new action plan seeks to involve young people and support the business community in the ecological transition.
- Bonn Climate Change Conference | The Bonn Climate Change Conference is expected to conclude on 26 June 2025. While the beginning of substantial negotiations only commenced on the third day, important discussions took place. → Follow the IISD Earth Negotiations Bulletin live coverage.
Additional news include:- “Paris Agreement Showed the World That Multilateralism Can Deliver:” UN Climate Chief Speech | 21 June 2025
- The Inter-American Court of Human Rights will release its Advisory Opinion on Climate Crisis and human rights on 3 July. In preparation, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights and climate change, encourages you to hear reflections on the opportunities, importance on the ground and internationally, and expectations about this Advisory Opinion expressed at a Press Confernce organized by La Ruta del Clima, the Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) and AIDA – Asociación Interamericana para la Defensa del Ambiente.
- Workers and grassroots groups push Just Transition agenda at Bonn climate talks | Climate Change News | 19 June 2025
- “We Need the Next 8 Days to Deliver Concrete Progress” – UN Climate Chief at SB62 | 17 June 2025
- Bonn Climate Talks Should Make Progress on Fossil Fuels. Ambitious Climate Plans Needed to Implement Fossil Fuel Phaseout | Human Rights Watch | 16 June 2025
- Climate Action Network International | ECO 5| ECO 4 | ECO 3 | ECO 2 | ECO 1
- On 24 June 2025 at 15:00 CEST, the UN Secretary-General will set out a compelling and evidence-backed case for why the renewables revolution is now inevitable. This will be accompanied by the release of a special technical report prepared by the Secretary-General’s Climate Action Team. The speech will be live streamed into the State of Climate Politics Forum event, at the London Climate Action Week, and on UN web TV (webcast link).
- You Never Know One Day You Too Might Become a Refugee | The Platform on Disaster Displacement is hosting a film screening of You Never Know One Day You Too Might Become a Refugee (2023), portraying the human reality of disaster displacement and climate change. The event is part of the 10th anniversary of the endorsement of the Nansen Initiative Agenda for the Protection of Cross-Border Displaced Persons in the Context of Disasters and Climate Change (Protection Agenda/NIPA) and the change of PDD Chiarmanship from Kenya to Costa Rica. → Register to join on 30 June 2025 at the Maison de la Paix Auditorium Ivan Pictet from 18:00 CEST
- The upcoming Geneva Rights and Climate Talks taking place next week in the margins of HRC59 promise to deepen engagement on rights-based approaches to climate action, focusing on themes like just transition, youth litigation, environmental defenders, migration, and the right to science.
Hong Kong Convention Enters into Force
The Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships – aimed at ensuring that ships, when being recycled after reaching the end of their operational lives, do not pose any unnecessary risk to human health and safety or to the environment – was adopted at a Diplomatic Conference held in Hong Kong, China, in May 2009. It was developed with input from the International Maritime Organization Member States and non-governmental organizations, and in co-operation with the International Labour Organization and the Parties to the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal.
The Hong Kong Convention will enter into force on 26 June 2025, 24 months after the following conditions were met:
- Not less than 15 Contracting States. The Hong Kong Convention now has 24 Contracting States: Bangladesh, Belgium, Republic of the Congo, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Ghana, India, Japan, Liberia, Luxembourg, Malta, Marshall Islands, Kingdom of the Netherlands, Norway, Pakistan, Panama, Portugal, São Tomé and Príncipe, Serbia, Spain, and Türkiye.
- Not less than 40% of the world’s merchant shipping by gross tonnage. By June 2023, the Contracting States above (aside from Pakistan and Marshall Islands, which joined later) represented approximately 45.91% of the gross tonnage of the world’s merchant shipping.
- Ship recycling capacity of not less than 3% of the gross tonnage of the combined merchant shipping of those States mentioned above. By June 2023, the combined annual ship recycling volume of the Contracting States over the preceding 10 years amounted to 23,848,453 gross tonnage, equivalent to 3.31% of the required recycling volume.
The entry into force of the Convention was largely discussed at the 2025 Meetings of the Conference of the Parties to the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions, with a focus on the International Maritime Organization’s provisional guidance on its interplay with the Basel Convention (referred to in Basel Convention Document UNEP/CHW.17/INF/60) → Read our newsletter of 5 – 11 May 2025 for more information.
Additional resources include:
- New rules may not change dirty and deadly ship recycling business | AFP | 18 June 2025
- Ship recycling stays low, with just 20 ships beached during May | Lloyds List | 11 June 2025
The Spiral of Chaos with Irreversible Consequences for Humanity and the Planet | Peace is the Solution
With the spiral of chaos we are witnessing — where colleagues are being killed in the line of duty and countless civilians, including children, are dying simply trying to access basic necessities — it becomes increasingly difficult to remain silent as a UN civil servant. Numerous voices from UN institutions have been stressing that this must stop. “The only path forward is diplomacy. The only hope is peace.” stressed the UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
News from past weeks and days on this spiral include:
- Of the 168 UN staff – military, police, and civilian personnel from 31 countries – that have fallen line of duty last year, 126 were killed in Gaza, including 125 women and men who worked for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Some were killed with their families. Working for the UN “is far more than just a job” – it’s a calling. “All our fallen colleagues answered the call to serve humanity,” said the UN Secretary-General at the annual memorial to honour UN personnel. “They did so in their own ways – without fanfare – and with determination. They represented humanity in action.”
- The UN Secretary-General told an emergency meeting of the Security Council on Sunday that massive overnight strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities only increase the risk of a wider war and “serious damage to the international order”, stressing that the wider Middle East region could not endure yet another cycle of destruction. Demanding a ceasefire, he also called for the respect of the Non-Proliferation Treaty on the development of nuclear weapons as a cornerstone of peace and security worldwide. It is also to be noted:
- The head of the UN’s atomic energy watchdog – the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) – warned Member States that the recent military strikes on nuclear sites in Iran have badly compromised safety and could pose serious risks if the situation worsens. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi warned that even though there had been no radiation leaks which could potentially impact the public so far, any strike on Bushehr could trigger a massive radiation release across the region. “The risk is real,” he said.
- The Geneva-based and Nobel Prize laureate International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) highlighted last week that Israel is the only country in the region that has nuclear weapons, 90 according to the Federation of American Scientists, and assessed that Israel spent more than $1 billion on its nuclear weapons programme in 2024. The use of any nuclear weapon would have catastrophic humanitarian and environmental consequences. “If even just one 100-kiloton nuclear weapon were detonated over a city, hundreds of thousands would die immediately and hundreds of thousands to millions more people would be seriously injured.
- The top UN humanitarian official in the Occupied Palestinian Territory has issued a stark warning on Saturday over the deepening crisis in Gaza, where civilians are being killed daily while trying to access food, water and medical care. “This is carnage,” he said. “It appears to be the erasure of Palestinian life from Gaza.” He urged the international community to act: “We need a lasting ceasefire, accountability, and real pressure to stop this. This is the bare minimum.” UN agencies have sounded the alarm over deadly violence at food distribution points over the past weeks. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has also regularly warned that Gaza’s health system is on the verge of total collapse.
- Across Sudan’s North Darfur and Kordofan regions, hostilities continue to escalate, with reports of civilian casualties, sexual violence, abductions and looting, the UN human rights chief Voker Türk warned last week, describing the consequences as disastrous.
- The UN Security Council also met last Friday to discuss the situation in Ukraine, where intensified fighting continues. “As we are facing renewed escalation on the ground and crisis elsewhere, it is critical to maintain focused attention on the urgent need for peace in Ukraine.” said UN Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenča.
- The UN Secretary-General has strongly condemned a deadly attack on peacekeepers serving with the UN peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic, which claimed the life of a Zambian peacekeeper and left another wounded.
Enjoying a Green Summer in Geneva
As summer unfolds, Geneva comes alive with sunshine, nature, and endless possibilities. From open-air festivals and lakeside activities to exhibitions, workshops, and nature walks, discover a variety of events that celebrate the season of light and environmental awareness. Whether you’re looking to cool off in green spaces, dive into sustainability, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature in full bloom, find your inspiration for a vibrant Green Summer in Geneva. Suggestions for this week include:
- Passeport Santé pour les seniors: Balade faunistique et floristique | 24 June 2025 | Mairie de Lancy
Enjoy a gentle, guided walk to discover local wildlife and plants. This peaceful outdoor stroll invites seniors to reconnect with nature, boost vitality, and build community in Lancy’s green spaces. - Exposition : Trop de déchets dans nos poubelles | Until 24 June 2025 | Prévessin-Moëns
Our planet is drowning in waste. This exhibition takes a closer look at household rubbish, where it ends up, how it pollutes, and what we can do about it. With engaging displays and practical tips, visitors are encouraged to rethink, reduce, and recycle for a cleaner future. - Afrosonica – Paysages sonores. Parcours sonore immersif pour enfants et familles | 25 June 2025 | Musée d’ethnographie de Genève
Step into a world of rhythm, memory, and movement in this sensory sound journey through this temporary exhibition. - L’AMR aux Cropettes 2025 | 25 – 29 June 2025 | AMR Genève
Jazz fills the air for the 42nd edition of this open-air festival celebrating improvisation and summer rhythms. Over five days, enjoy 27 free concerts featuring eclectic ensembles, solo performances, and jazz workshops in the heart of Geneva’s Parc des Cropettes. - Séance de Cinéma Plein Air aux bains des Pâquis. Fire of Love | 26 June 2025 | Bain des Paquis
Under the open night sky, watch Fire of Love, a captivating documentary about volcanologists Katia and Maurice Krafft, who filmed their passion for volcanoes until a tragic eruption claimed their lives. - Exploration et dégustation de plantes tropicales et comestibles | 28 June 2025 | Conservatoire et Jardin botaniques
Taste your way through the tropics in this guided exploration of edible plants from the garden’s winter conservatory. A flavorful drop-in experience blending taste and ethnobotany, part of BOTANICA 2025. - Exposition : L’eau dans tous ses états ! | Until 28 June 2025 | Divonne-les-Bains
Dive into the multifaceted world of water in this thought-provoking exhibition, where seven doctoral researchers share how this vital element intersects with their cutting-edge work. - Dialogues insolites entre le Muséum d’histoire naturelle de Genève et le Conservatoire botanique de Genève | Until 29 June 2025 | Conservatoire et Jardin botaniques
Discover the fascinating interactions between the plant and animal worlds through a unique exhibition showcasing historical specimens and scientific connections. - Ici, le lac ressemble à la mer. Chansons pour le Léman | Until 29 June 2025 | Quartier Libre SIG
Discover the musical soul of Lake Geneva in this poetic, immersive exhibition presented by SIG and the Musée du Léman. - Climate Fiction, un récit sur la collection du Fonds cantonal d’art contemporain | Until 31 August 2025 | Musée de Carouge
Through a bold curatorial lens, this exhibition dives into the environmental crises of our time by uncovering their roots in social, economic, and geopolitical inequalities. - Été 2025 au Théâtre de l’Orangerie | Until 6 September 2025 | Théâtre de l’Orangerie
Under the theme “La vie c’est sûrement autre chose,” the 2025 program features a dynamic mix of theatre, dance, visual arts, concerts, workshops, and family activities. - L’été au Jardin | Until 14 September 2025 | Jardin botanique alpin de Meyrin
This summer, the alpine garden transforms into a lively space for learning, creativity, and connection. With a mix of exhibitions, workshops, and outdoor activities, visitors of all ages are invited to celebrate nature, community, and seasonal joy. - Our Biodiversity | Conservatoire et Jardin botaniques
Explore biodiversity through an immersive outdoor exhibition inspired by Geneva’s new Municipal Biodiversity Strategy. Along a contemplative garden trail, discover short texts displayed on flowing fabric panels that invite reflection on the essential role of biodiversity in our health, food systems, and planetary wellbeing. - Enjoy the sun, warmth and many jumps in the lake at UN Beach.
- Relisten to ONU Info Genève podcast episode “Il faut réinventer le lien entre l’Homme et la Nature.” with photographer and producer Yann Arthus-Bertrand.
- Check local resources to handle heatwaves and hot days in our summer suggestions
What (Else) to Read Next?
- Battle to save Indonesian ‘paradise’ as nickel industry expands into Raja Ampat in Papua | ABC News | 21 June 2025
Conservationists said the archipelago’s delicate ecosystem is being sacrificed to support Indonesia’s burgeoning renewable energy industry. Indonesia is the biggest refiner of nickel in the world. Over the past decade the rapid expansion of the industry — to support the electric vehicle and green energy transition — has created opportunities for some while leaving others struggling to get by. - High Court trial finds Shell plc and its former Nigerian subsidiary can be held legally responsible for legacy oil pollution in Nigeria | Leigh Day | 20 June 2025
The High Court has ruled that Shell plc and its former Nigerian subsidiary can be held legally responsible for legacy, or historic, oil pollution which has devastated the environments of two communities in Nigeria. - Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and Alternatives in Hydraulic Oils and Lubricants | OECD | 20 June 2025
Progress in substituting PFASs in lubricants has been limited. Due to the technical and economic challenges involved in developing suitable alternatives—and in the absence of strong market drivers—the market for PFAS-based lubricants is expected to continue expanding. The report includes specific policy recommendations to address the barriers and challenges associated with the substitution of PFASs in lubricants and hydraulic oils. - Marie Perrin receives Young Inventors Prize “World builder” | ETHZ | 18 June 2025
The French-American chemist Marie Perrin has been selected as one of the ten finalists for the European Patent Office’s Young Inventors Prize 2025, in the category “World builder”. Her innovation enables the environmentally friendly recovery of the rare earth element europium from e-waste like discarded fluorescent lamps.
- Enhancing Regional Mining Ecosystems in the European Union. Securing the Green Transition and Supply of Mineral Raw Materials | OECD Rural Studies | 16 June 2025
Regional and local ecosystems play a central role in securing a reliable mineral supply for the European Union, which is a priority for supporting its competitiveness agenda and achieving its climate objectives. With critical minerals and mining expertise concentrated in specific European regions, place-based policies can enable the subnational conditions to advance sustainable and resilient mining value chains. - Improving Environmentally Sound Trade Through Economic Diplomacy: The Role of Standards | Greg Messenger | TESS | 16 June 2025
As businesses and policymakers seek to fashion more environmentally sound supply chains, the means to determine what is truly green and what is greenwashing becomes harder. From production methods, supply chain analysis, the assessment of greenhouse gas emissions, and labelling of goods to advertising of services, standards play a central role in ensuring that environmentally sound trade is accessible, supported, and trusted. While economic diplomacy in this field has focused on liberalization or (to a lesser degree) regulation, without standards meaningful environmental outcomes will be inevitably limited.
- Près de 400 élèves récompensés dans le cadre du Concours Environnement Jeunesse « Mission Transition » | Republic et Canton de Genève | 17 June 2025
Près de 400 élèves – ont été récompensées lors de la cérémonie de remise des prix de la 20e édition du Concours Environnement Jeunesse, qui s’est tenue au Théâtre du Forum de Meyrin. Cette journée a rassemblé des élèves venus de tous less cantons francophones de Suisse pour célébrer l’engagement des jeunes autour du thème: « Mission Transition ! », consacré aux défis de la transition écologique. - Celebrating 30 Years of AEWA
For three decades, countries, organizations, and individuals from across the African-Eurasian region have joined forces under a shared mission: to protect migratory waterbirds and the vital habitats they depend on along the African-Eurasian Flyway.
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59th regular session of the Human Rights Council | HRC59
16 Jun – 09 Jul 2025
Palais des Nations
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Virtual
State of the Climate in Asia 2024 Report Launch
23 Jun 2025 | 09:00 – 10:00
Online | Zoom
WMO
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The Energy Policy of the Canton of Geneva: progress and perspectives
23 Jun 2025 | 11:00 – 12:00
European Broadcasting Union (EBU)
2050Today, Smart Geneva, EBU
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Fifth meeting of the Strategic and Technical Advisory Group on Antimicrobial Resistance (STAG-AMR)
24 – 25 Jun 2025
Online | Zoom
WHO
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International Environment House II
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Online | BrightTalk
UNEP FI
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Online | AI for Good Neural Network
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Greening Humanitarian Assistance – Donor Priorities and Practical Guidance
26 Jun 2025 | 15:00 – 17:00
Online | Zoom
Climate and Environment Charter
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Symposium « Pratiques publicitaires et consommation durable »,
26 Jun 2025 | 15:30 – 21:30
Salle du Môle
Sortir de la pub
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Youth at the Forefront: Building Green, Circular and Just Futures
26 Jun 2025 | 15:30
Online | Zoom
GGKP
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IG3IS Webinar Series | Tracking waste emissions at the local scale using atmospheric observations
26 Jun 2025 | 18:00 – 19:30
Online | Zoom
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Chargé(e) de projet en aménagement et politiques environnementales (50-60%)
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