By RTCC staff
Ban Ki-moon has placed energy and climate change at the top of his agenda for his second term as UN Secretary General (Source: UNFCCC)
Ban Ki-moon has emphasised the importance of sustainable energy choices in combating the world’s security, development and environmental challenges.
Speaking at the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi, Ban called on attendees to invest and develop the technologies required to meet the goals of the UN Year of Sustainable Energy for All.
“Energy is central to everything we do – from powering our economies to achieving the Millennium Development Goals, from combating climate change to underpinning global security,” said Ban.
“It is the golden thread that connects economic growth, increased social equity and preserving the environment. We are here to build a new energy future, a future that harnesses the power of technology and innovation in the service of people and the planet,” he added.
He said that the day he first had access to electricity as a child changed his life, as it meant he could continue his studying after dark.
“Sustainable energy for all is within our reach. For those who may doubt, I say look no further than the phenomenal spread of mobile phone technology. It has touched every corner of the world and empowered billions of people – a direct result of innovation, investment and government support,” he said.
“We can create a similar paradigm with sustainable energy.”
Ban is beginning his second five-year term as UN Secretary General and has already placed climate change and energy challenges at the top of his agenda.
VIDEO: Day 1 wrap-up from the World Future Energy Summit 2012 in Abu Dhabi