Threats to water and biodiversity are linked. A new U.S. envoy role tackles them both

Monica Medina, assistant secretary of state for oceans and international environmental and scientific affairs is pictured on Sept. 20 in New York City. She will take on additional responsibilities as an envoy on biodiversity and water resources. (Monica Schipper/Getty Images for WWF Internation)

The U.S. has a new diplomat tasked with combating threats to plants, animals and water worldwide. It's the first time the State Department is linking the issues of biodiversity and water in one role.

"The loss of nature and rising water insecurity are global health threats that must be confronted together," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a tweet.