‘We Must Learn to Live in Balance with the Planet that Sustains Us,’

 

Says Secretary-General in Remarks on Earth Day in New York

 

Following are UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s remarks on Earth Day, in New York, 22 April:

Happy Earth Day!

It is a pleasure to be here.

For 40 years, Earth Day has helped create a sense of shared responsibility for our environment and our one and only home.

Millions of Americans and people around the world are reducing their carbon footprint, recycling, planting trees and pushing for policies that have brought cleaner rivers and skies.

There are so many inspiring stories.

Mayor Bloomberg, thank you for your commitment to New York’s environment.

We at the United Nations want to do our part in our home city.

The renovations going on now at the UN Headquarters will make it a green showpiece.

We still have a long way to go.

Species are disappearing.

Climate change is accelerating.

We must learn to live in balance with the planet that sustains us.

We need to grow -- but we need to grow green.

This country can show the way -- at home and abroad.

Show the world that we can kick the carbon habit.

There is a better way to do things -- cleaner, greener, healthier.

Each of us is part of the solution.

On this fortieth anniversary of Earth Day, let us pledge to be good stewards of our common home for now, and for generations to come.

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For information media • not an official record