Global legacy for future generations

In his address to the High-Level Event on Climate Change attended by eighty Heads of State, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today mentioned a proposal that Malta put forward in 1987:

Two decades ago, here in this Hall, climate change first surfaced on the world's political agenda. The subject, proposed by the island nation of Malta, remains as evocative today as it did then -- “the protection of global climate for present and future generations of mankind”. Much has happened since those early days. But the fundamental challenge remains unchanged, and has become even more pressing. Indeed, I am convinced that climate change, and what we do about it, will define us, our era, and ultimately the global legacy we leave for future generations.

Today, the time for doubt has passed. The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has unequivocally affirmed the warming of our climate system, and linked it directly to human activity. The scientists have very clearly outlined the severity of the problem. Their message is quite simple: - we know enough to act; - if we do not act now the impact of climate change will be devastating; - and we have affordable measures and technologies to begin addressing the problem right now.

What we do not have is time. The time for action is now. That is why I have invited you, the leaders of the world, to join me for this high-level meeting on climate change. The unprecedented challenge of climate change demands unprecedented action. And unprecedented leadership. Leadership that is ready to set new directions. Your leadership. I am gratified that so many of you have come to this event. By being here, you have signaled that you share my concern. And you are ready to act.

Today, the effects of climate change are being felt around the world. But they are being felt most by those who are the least able to cope. Indeed, the terrible irony for many developing countries is that, though they have contributed the least to the process of climate change, they are the ones most at risk from its consequences. For some island States and peoples this is a matter of survival. The moral imperative could not be clearer.

Climate change is a serious threat to development everywhere. Indeed, the adverse impacts of climate change could undo much of the investment made to achieve the Millennium Development Goals. But it is not a zero-sum game. By being creative, we can reduce emissions while promoting economic growth. This is our opportunity to: advance sustainable development; encourage new kinds of cleaner technologies, industries and jobs; and integrate climate change risks into national policies and practices. We must be guided by the reality that inaction now will prove the costliest action of all in the long term...

United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change