20 p.

Once again, the past year was the hottest ever. Sixteen of the 17 warmest years on record have occurred during this young century. This trend not only threatens the world's ecosystems and biodiversity but poses a serious risk for peace, security and sustainable development. Many conflicts are triggered, exacerbated or prolonged by competition over scarce natural resources; climate change will only make the situation worse. That is why protecting our environment is critical to the founding goals of the United Nations to prevent war and sustain peace.