South Korean girl group Blackpink spoke at the United Nations (UN) SDG Moment event held at the UN General Assembly Hall in New York City on Monday, September 19, urging action to combat climate change.
In a video message played during the event, members Lisa, Jennie, Rosé, and Jisoo highlighted the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They also explained their importance, especially the 13th SDG, which specifically called for climate action.
“We can’t deny that the climate crisis is getting worse. There isn’t a single moment to lose. That is why SDG 13 for climate action is so important. It can truly make or break our efforts across all global goals,” Rosé said.
“We must seize this moment and take action to create a world that is more sustainable and leaves no one behind,” Jennie added.
Speaking in Korean, Lisa, Jisoo, and Jennie named ways how people can contribute to helping solve the climate crisis. It includes the smallest and simplest of ways, such as limiting energy usage, changing diets, buying eco-friendly products, and further education on climate change.
“First, let’s not underestimate the impact that individual efforts can make. We can take more steps to decrease our energy consumption. A simple thing like our diet can also make a difference. Choosing local produce and minimizing food waste are small efforts that can generate big impacts,” Jisoo said.
“Second, as consumers, we have more power than we might think. Choosing where we spend our money can send strong messages. Let’s seek out products designed for a better future. Most importantly, we must learn more about climate change,” Lisa added.
“It is our collective future, and we have the responsibility to protect it. With more knowledge, we can better shape a better tomorrow,” Jennie added.
The group ended their speech by calling everyone to join in pledging climate action.
“All of us deserve a world abundant in nature, energy, and livelihood,” Rosé said.
“We, Blackpink, have embarked on our journey to learn and act now. Will you join us?” Jisoo added in Korean.
In September 2021, UN Secretary-General António Guterres appointed Blackpink as an advocate for the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, becoming the first Asian artist to do so.
Before that, the group advocated for the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow, Scotland, the United Kingdom, from October 31 to November 13, 2021.
