New York, April 22, 2025 —
International finance and sustainability expert Maria Spartalis took center stage in Times Square as co-host of the 55th Anniversary of Earth Day, delivering a bold message on climate finance and global responsibility. The event, organized by Reverend Paul Sladkus and Good News Corporation, brought thousands together at the Times Square Pedestrian Plaza to support EarthDay.org’s theme, “Our Power, Our Planet.”
Speaking to a crowd of climate advocates, policymakers, and cultural figures, Spartalis called for immediate and tangible investment from the banking sector and political leadership. “We cannot afford to treat sustainability as optional. It’s time to channel serious capital into climate solutions,” she stated.
The event featured live performances from OMMM, Jarvis Smith, Antonique Smith, and AY Young, along with virtual messages from global voices including Ringo Starr, Dr. Jane Goodall, Leonardo DiCaprio, Stevie Wonder, and Shakira (on behalf of UNICEF). The United Nations Development Programme and Equator Initiative also joined the celebration, reinforcing its global reach. 
Adding a note of peace and reflection, soprano Giorgia Fumanti and pianist Katya Grineva performed in support of Earth-centered unity.
Following the show, Spartalis met with representatives from leading institutions including Valley Bank, Swift Rails, Gitterman Wealth Management, and PEP Real Estate/Tribeca Records — several of whom pledged new funding for environmental startups and green innovation.
“As New York marks its 400th anniversary, let’s also commit to a future our planet can survive and thrive in,” said Spartalis. “The time for transformative, green investment is now.”
Maria Spartalis continues to be a global voice for aligning economic systems with environmental stewardship, urging the world’s leaders to finance not just progress — but planetary survival.
