During September’s last weekend, three days of conferences were conducted at the United Nations General Assembly, in Midtown Manhattan, titled “The Sustainable Development Summit.” A variety of topics were discussed as each country presented its priorities in an effort to thwart the devaluing effects consumerism is having on planet Earth in general and on the Motherland in particular.

“In 2000, all world leaders committed themselves to achieve what they call the MDG — Millennium Development Goals,” explained social activist Dr. Georgina Falu, who observed the events. “So all the countries, from 2000 to 2015, have been doing what is necessary to achieve the MDG: reducing poverty; reducing the deficit between the classes in terms of income, the haves/have nots; reducing the climate changes; promoting women’s equality; and supporting the youths in generating these goals.”

Throughout the three days of the gathering, various countries presented their reports, and then adopted a resolution to ensure that everyone is committed to following and implementing those plans.

“Now in 2015, the U.N. did what is known as the Sustainable Development Summit … To eliminate extreme poverty, you have to tackle not only the social relationships in society but also the economic [one as well],” commented Falu. “So every country came to this summit with a promise to tackle and complete the job laid out in 2000, and now in 2015 they’re going harder to achieve those goals.”

A number of obstacles that could curtail the proposed plans were also discussed.

“Most countries agreed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions so that we don’t see the devastating effects which are projected if we don’t arrest the continual rising in global temperature,” said Falu.

Additionally, mention was also made of the adverse effects consumerism is having on the planet and the importance of reducing the risks of disasters allegedly caused by climate changes, such as hurricanes, droughts and others believed to be natural occurrences.

Falu concludes, “The African Union has been working to help achieve the goals in a measurable manner to see these changes come about.”