Highlights: UNU-IAS at the UN High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development 2022 - Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability

During 5-15 July 2022, UNU-IAS contributed to global policy dialogue on the SDGs as part of the UN High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF). The HLPF is the main United Nations platform on sustainable development, with a central role in the follow-up and review of the SDGs. The 2022 meeting focused on the theme “Building back better from the coronavirus disease (COVID- 19) while advancing the full implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”.

UNU-IAS organised two side events, driving discussions on synergies and trade-offs between climate action and the SDGs, and ecosystem restoration to build back better from COVID-19. The events showcased UNU-IAS research and education programmes while enhancing partnerships in these critical areas.

The events underlined the deep and complex interconnections between the sustainable development, climate change, and biodiversity agendas. There is an urgent need for greater ambition to close the gaps and advance integrated solutions through research and policymaking that transcends silos.

UNU-IAS Events

HLPF SIDE EVENT
Climate Action and the SDGs — Closing Gaps and Strengthening Synergies
7 July 2022

UNU-IAS brought together diverse perspectives from the UN system, academia, and civil society to discuss challenges and opportunities in scaling up climate action while advancing sustainable development. This online side event explored critical gaps and considered how they can be closed by realising synergies between the two agendas. It shared examples of synergies, trade-offs, and good practices; identified success factors; and underlined the critical role of research and education.

HLPF SIDE EVENT
Partnership in Action for Well-being: The Satoyama Initiative and Building Back Better
13 July 2022

This online side event discussed the unique approach and value of the Satoyama Initiative, and how this can contribute to achieving the SDGs and recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. Speakers called for integrated approaches based on a harmonious relationship with nature to create lasting solutions to the challenges of climate change and promote well-being. The event was organised by UNU-IAS, Conservation International, UNDP, the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (SCBD), and the Ministry of the Environment, Japan (MOEJ).