Russian approval of Kyoto pact first step in slowing growth of greenhouse gases – Annan

Russia’s ratification of the Kyoto Protocol, enabling the treaty to go into effect, is a significant first step in slowing down growth in harmful greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere, according to United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan.

The move taken last month by Moscow will also help to galvanize the world's efforts to tackle the planetary challenge of climate change, Mr. Annan said in a message to the Energy Globe Awards delivered by Franz Baumann, Deputy Director-General of the UN Office at Vienna (UNOV).

“Clean, affordable and sustainable energy is essential for human development,” he said, noting that some two billion people still lack access to electricity.

“The Energy Globe Awards demonstrate that clean and modern forms of energy to drive sustainable development and reduce environmental impacts are available now,” he added. “We need to do all we can to promote their further development and to establish a level playing field so that they can reach the market and take hold.”

The Awards go to best practice projects and initiatives from across the world that contribute to protecting the four basic elements of life – earth, fire, water and air.

The winners will be announced on 8 December.