Unless people’s basic needs are met, the planet is in risk of imploding.

That stern warning comes from American actor Forest Whitaker who was recently named an advocate for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The 17 SDGs will drive global efforts to address the root causes of poverty by the deadline of 2030.

Dianne Penn caught up with Forest Whitaker who was at the United Nations on Thursday for a General Assembly thematic debate on the SDGs.

The Academy Award-winning actor explains why it is critical for this generation to achieve the goals.

Duration: 5'02"