UN calls for 'greener' development
In his message on World Environment Day, which falls today United
Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon while describing the current
economic and financial turmoil as a wake-up call for the humanity, calls
for a "Green New Deal" to face the threat of climate change.
"The economic and financial turmoil sweeping the globe is a true
wake-up call, sounding an alarm about the need to improve upon old
patterns of growth and make a transition to a new era of greener,
cleaner development. The theme of this year's World Environment Day -
"Your planet needs you" - is meant to inspire all of us to do our part.
The Earth faces the grave threat of climate change. While all
countries will suffer, the poor will bear the brunt of the impact. But
we also have an opportunity to change course. Crucial climate change
talks will take place in Copenhagen in December. Together, we must press
governments to "Seal the Deal" for a new climate agreement.
The world also needs a "Green New deal" focused on investing in
renewable sources of energy, eco-friendly infrastructure and energy
efficiency. This will not only create jobs and spur recovery but also
help tackle global warning. If we invest even part of the substantial
new economic stimulus packages in the green economy, we can turn today's
crisis into tomorrow's sustainable growth.
Moreover, countries that make the transition to a low-carbon society
will reap more than significant environmental benefits; they will be
well-placed to share their new technology with others.
But our planet needs more than just action by governments and
corporations; it needs each of us. Although individual decisions may
seem small in the face of global threats and trends, when billions of
people join forces in common purpose we can make a tremendous
difference.
"On this World Environment Day, I encourage all people to take
concrete steps towards making the planet greener and cleaner. Switch off
the lights. Take public transportation. Recycle. Plant a tree. Clean up
your local park. Hold corporations responsible for their environmental
practices. And urge your government representatives to seal the Deal in
Copenhagen," the message said. |