Times Square, New York — April 22, 2025
Financial strategist and sustainability advocate Maria Spartalis marked a powerful moment in climate action as she co-hosted the 55th Anniversary of Earth Day in Times Square, joining Reverend Paul Sladkus of Good News Corporation for an evening of music, activism, and environmental urgency.
Speaking to a crowd gathered between 46th and 47th Streets, Spartalis urged global leaders across banking, politics, and culture to invest more decisively in climate-positive ventures. Her message echoed EarthDay.org’s 2025 theme, “Our Power, Our Planet” — calling for shared responsibility and real capital to drive sustainable innovation.
The event featured live performances by artists including OMMM with their anthem “Love Your Mother,” Jarvis Smith, Antonique Smith, and AY Young, with special virtual appearances by Ringo Starr, Dr. Jane Goodall, Leonardo DiCaprio, Stevie Wonder, and Shakira for UNICEF. Support also came from the UN Development Programme and Equator Initiative. 
Renowned classical musicians Giorgia Fumanti and pianist Katya Grineva lent their voices to the cause as peace ambassadors.
After the public program, Spartalis met with representatives from Valley Bank, Swift Rails, Hugg A Planet, PEP Real Estate/Tribeca Records, Necromantic Brew Co., and Gitterman Wealth Management, who committed to expanding investment in environmentally focused startups and technologies.
“As New York City reflects on 400 years of history, we must also commit to a sustainable future,” Spartalis declared. “Let’s move beyond talk. Let’s finance the solutions.”
Maria Spartalis’s leadership at Earth Day 2025 spotlighted the rising role of sustainable finance in global climate strategy — and underscored the need for decisive action now.
