H.E. Zehra Zümrüt SELÇUK addressed the commemoration of World Environment Day, jointly organized by the OI General Secretariat and the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Türkiye to the OIC.

In her remarks, she noted that greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in OIC Member States have increased by 91% over the past decades, compared with 53% globally. At the same time, she highlighted that average per capita carbon dioxide emissions in OIC countries remain 2.60 tonnes, well below the global average of 4.62 tonnes.

She underscored that the energy sector remains central to climate action, accounting for more than half of GHG emissions in OIC Member States.

H.E. SELÇUK also pointed out that 28 OIC countries are experiencing water stress, including 16 facing critical levels, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger environmental action and sustainable resource management.

Highlighting best practices and success stories from OIC countries, she also emphasized the growing role of OIC countries in global climate diplomacy—from COP27 in Egypt and COP28 in the United Arab Emirates to COP29 in Azerbaijan, as well as the forthcoming COP31, which will be hosted by Türkiye.

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