A canal filled with garbage in Seelampur area in New Delhi, India, April 26, 2023. Photo: AFP/VNA

In a video message for the International Day of Zero Waste, which falls on March 30 annually, the UN chief highlighted the perilous state of the planet.

"Our planet is drowning under a torrent of trash," Guterres said, painting a dire picture of the environmental degradation caused by humanity's overconsumption and waste production. With "more than 2 billion tons of municipal solid waste" produced every year, the consequences are devastating for the earth's climate, ecosystems and human health.

He emphasized the urgency of addressing overconsumption, stating "overconsumption is killing us. Humanity needs an intervention."

Guterres underscored the importance of government action in fostering circular economies that prioritize "reuse, remanufacturing, recovery, and waste prevention."

He pointed out the need for modern waste-management programs that can significantly mitigate the impacts of resource depletion.

"On this Zero Waste Day, let's pledge to end the destructive cycle of waste, once and for all," said Guterres, urging global citizens to commit to sustainable practices that protect the planet for future generations.