Welcoming European moves on climate change, Ban Ki-moon urges ambitious action

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today welcomed the European Union (EU) decision to establish targets for energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources in the battle against global warming, saying the moves can help put the world’s energy systems on more sustainable footing.

“In the face of rising greenhouse gas emissions, committing to a substantial decrease for the next decade is ambitious,” Mr. Ban, who has frequently called action on climate change one of his top priorities as Secretary-General, said in a statement issued by his spokesperson.

“But ambition and leadership are just what is needed to respond to climate change, one of the greatest challenges facing humankind,” he added.

Noting that the EU’s moves offer business strong incentives to develop the advanced technologies that the world, above all the developing world, needs to meet its energy needs while at the same time addressing climate change, Mr. Ban said the decision raises hopes for further advances in the course of this year.

“In particular, the world looks to the United Nations Climate Change Conference to be held in Bali, Indonesia in December, to launch intensive talks on strengthening international cooperation to reduce emissions,” the statement added.

“The Secretary-General calls on all countries to participate in these talks with ambition and creativity.”