Championing marine biodiversity, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy’s modernized approach to development is “partnership, not paternalism.”
In his speech at the recent Blue Horizons Panel, Lammy recognized that international partnerships, particularly with climate crisis-affected countries like the Philippines, are needed to address climate and nature crises. He noted that while the United Kingdom has ambitious domestic environmental goals, global collaboration is essential for ensuring the future of the planet.
“We absolutely need to work in partnerships with countries like the Philippines, to preserve our planet for future generations,” said the new British foreign secretary.
For Lammy, marine biodiversity holds a special significance, especially as both the UK and the Philippines are island nations. “Like the Philippines, Britain is an island nation,” he shared, acknowledging the deep connection that coastal and island communities have with the ocean.
The British official also highlighted how his upbringing in inner-city London shaped his understanding of nature, sharing personal reflections about visiting Kew Gardens with his father, whose homeland in Guyana is known for its rich rainforests. These experiences have informed Lammy’s commitment to safeguarding nature both at home and abroad.
UK actions vs climate change
The UK government is making strides to tackle climate change through domestic actions, such as accelerating the transition to Net Zero and expanding the network of Marine Protected Areas.
Lammy outlined the UK’s proactive stance in global discussions, including its commitment to ratifying the High Seas Treaty and pushing for a global Plastics Treaty, despite setbacks.
“At the climate and nature COPs last year in Baku and Cali, our message to others was ‘Do as we do, not just as we say,’” he said referring to the annual Conference of Parties (COP) that discusses climate actions.
In addition to these global initiatives, Lammy underscored the importance of bilateral efforts.
Through the UK’s Blue Planet Fund, the country is investing in collaborative projects with the Philippines, including developing sustainable small-scale fisheries and restoring coastal ecosystems. The project, which includes a roadmap for high-quality blue carbon projects, is designed to reduce carbon in the atmosphere while also providing economic benefits to local communities.
Lammy believes that sustainable solutions must go hand in hand with supporting livelihoods. “Local communities are guardians of their surroundings. And they need an economic model which allows them to continue to live in harmony with nature,” he said.
Beyond environmental projects, the UK is also working with ASEAN countries to fund initiatives such as wetlands conservation at the Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, exemplifying how global cooperation can make meaningful contributions to preserving biodiversity.
Lammy’s visit to the Philippines marked his first as Foreign Secretary, a milestone that further solidified the longstanding friendship between the two nations.
With a shared maritime history and mutual interests in international law and sustainability, the UK and the Philippines continue to strengthen their partnership, as both nations strive to create a more sustainable future. As Lammy put it, “We have a shared interest in upholding international law and preserving our planet.”
Looking ahead, Lammy expressed excitement for the future of UK-Philippine cooperation, noting that both countries have much to gain from further collaboration on environmental and developmental issues. The Philippines, with its rich marine biodiversity, stands as a key ally in the global fight to combat climate change and protect nature for future generations. Veronica Uy
