Anna Stukkert
New York, April 22, 2025 — International banking, finance, and sustainability expert Maria Spartalis took center stage in Times Square to co-host the 55th Anniversary of Earth Day, joining Reverend Paul Sladkus of Good News Corporation for a high-impact evening dedicated to environmental action.
Held on the iconic pedestrian plaza between 46th and 47th Streets, the free public celebration — titled “Our Power, Our Planet” in alignment with EarthDay.org’s campaign — featured an all-star lineup of performers, virtual guest speakers, and green innovation advocates.
Maria Spartalis used the global spotlight to call on political, financial, and cultural leaders to move beyond rhetoric and invest in real, scalable climate solutions. “If you have power, you have responsibility — to fund the future,” she urged. “The Earth cannot wait.”
Highlights from the event included:
- Live music by OMMM, Jarvis Smith, Antonique Smith, and AY Young
- Virtual messages from Ringo Starr, Dr. Jane Goodall, Leonardo DiCaprio, Stevie Wonder, and Shakira
- Appearances from the UN Development Programme and the Equator Initiative
- Performances by soprano Giorgia Fumanti and renowned pianist Katya Grineva
Following the performances, Spartalis held private discussions with green-minded organizations such as Valley Bank, Swift Rails, Hugg A Planet, Gitterman Wealth Management, PEP Real Estate/Tribeca Records, and others — several of whom pledged new investments in sustainable startups.
“As New York marks its 400th anniversary, we also have to think 400 years forward,” Spartalis said. “Earth Day is not a celebration; it’s a commitment. We need business, culture, and policy to align now — not later.”
With her blend of financial acumen and environmental vision, Maria Spartalis continues to be a powerful voice for integrating sustainability into the global economic agenda.
