28 June 2007

Secretary-General pledges to work for 'green' UN buildings and operations

-- On World Environment Day, 5 June, the Secretary-General pledged that the United Nations would help safeguard the planet by making its own in-house practices more climate-neutral and environmentally sustainable.

In remarks at the headquarters of the UN World Tourism Organization in Madrid, the Secretary-General said:

"... as we mark World Environment Day today, I would like to make a public commitment, as the Organization’s direct contribution to global efforts to safeguard our planet and climate.

We are already moving towards making our Headquarters in New York climate-neutral and environmentally sustainable. The UN’s Capital Master Plan to renovate the 55-year old landmark is a good starting point, and we have already identified ways to reduce our energy use significantly.

I would like to see our renovated headquarters complex eventually become a globally acclaimed model of efficient use of energy and resources. Beyond New York, the initiative should include the other UN headquarters and offices around the globe.

We need to work on our operations too, by using energy more efficiently and eliminating wasteful practices. That is why, today, I am asking the heads of all UN agencies, funds and programmes to join me in this effort. And I am asking all staff members throughout the UN family to make common cause with me.

This undertaking will require dedication, perseverance and considerable financial resources, and the strong support of our Member States."