Why countries should sign the Paris Agreement on climate change -- and why you should care
This Friday, a record number of countries will sign the Paris Agreement on climate change, the historic roadmap for moving to a low-carbon economy and achieving a sustainable future for our planet and its people.
In an overwhelming display of determination to address climate change, representatives of more than 165 countries will take part in the signing ceremony, breaking the record for the number of signatories on the opening day of any international treaty. The previous record was 119, set in 1982.
This level of commitment is remarkable and has exceeded my expectations. It proves once again how international cooperation can deliver for people across the globe.
The adoption of the Paris Agreement last December sent a clear, unmistakable signal to markets and investors around the world that governments were moving in the direction of achieving a low—or no—carbon economy.
Every country in the world now recognizes that climate change is happening and is caused in large part due to human activities. Every country now sees that climate change presents serious dangers, or costs, to the health and prosperity of their citizens.
Over the past nine years as Secretary-General, I have made every possible effort to raise awareness of the dangers of climate change and generate momentum to achieve a sustainable future. I have talked to world leaders, met with business representatives, listened to activists and, not least, I have heard directly from the people most affected by the impacts of climate change.
The most vulnerable communities are all too aware of the urgency of climate action and that is why some of the nations on the climate frontlines — small island developing countries--will not just sign the Paris Agreement on Friday, but will take the next step to help ensure it enters into legal force as soon as possible by depositing their instruments of ratification.
These countries are an example to all. We cannot afford any delay, and it is critical that we accelerate efforts to keep global temperature rise this century to well below 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit).
It is not only government officials who have come around to the advantages of climate action. CEO after CEO is realizing that the world is moving in the direction of low-carbon economies and seeing the huge business potential and benefits to the bottom line.
Climate action also means job opportunities -- and the fields that will grow are those making the change to clean energy. These opportunities are universal, available to businesses and workers in all regions. In fact, the largest-growing markets are in developing countries where demand for sustainable energy for all is greatest and investors are facilitating new business models and supporting entrepreneurs.
No one, in any nation can avoid the impacts of climate change. We all have a responsibility -- and an opportunity -- to tackle climate change, starting today and wherever you are. Join me in urging your leaders to sign the Paris Agreement, and set an example in your community by including climate-friendly activities in your everyday life. Be part of achieving the future we want -- for this generation and those yet to come.
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Director Marketing Customer Service at Collins Consulting
6ydo your research BEFORE you produce this long list of hoop-la wrong data!!!!
Director Marketing Customer Service at Collins Consulting
6yNOT
Looking for a new challenge, extensive financial services experience. Feel free to connect and reach out.
7yRuhingay minorities are being killed in Burma. Why isn't the UN doing anything to protect these people?? :-(
Senior Consultant @ Deloitte | Quality Assurance, Information Systems
7yThink Globally and Act Locally will save our world from pollution and diseases!!!!