Widespread sustainable energy is ‘feasible and necessary’, says UN secretary general

Ban Ki-moon, the UN secretary general, has outlined the global objectives needed to be fulfilled in order to enhance sustainable development. Alex Blackburne looked into what he had to say.

The UN has set an objective to double world renewable energy usage by 2030, as well as a commitment to grant more people better access to the power source, according to secretary general, Ban Ki-Moon.

Speaking on the opening day of the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi, Ki-moon’s pledge runs parallel to the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All.

He said, “This is the right time for this Initiative. Across the world we see momentum building for concrete action that reduces energy poverty, catalyses sustainable economic growth, and mitigates the risks of climate change.

“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.  

“It is the golden thread that connects economic growth, increased social equity and preserving the environment.”

The South Korean delegate outlined three key target areas, to be achieved by 2030.

First, “[ensuring] universal access to modern energy services”; second, “[doubling] the rate of improvement of energy efficiency”; and third, “[doubling] the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix”.

The opening day of the World Future Energy Summit deliberately coincided with the launch of the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All – a scheme that aims to bring heat, light and electricity to billions around the world who are currently without power.

“A high-level group of eminent global leaders from business, finance, government and civil society” has been formed with a view to each driving the sustainable change on different levels.

“Together”, concluded Ki-moon, “We can create a cleaner, safer, more prosperous world for all”.

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Picture source: World Economic Forum