Now Is ‘Our Time to Change Climate Change’, Secretary-General Says in Message for Earth Hour

(Delayed for technical reasons.)

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s video message for Earth Hour 2016, held on 19 March:

For the past decade, Earth Hour has been inspiring climate awareness and action.

Around the globe, citizens, businesses and Governments have engaged in a symbolic hour of darkness to highlight the risks of climate change and the urgency of addressing it.

This year’s Earth Hour comes at a pivotal moment.  Last December, all the world’s Governments came together to adopt the Paris Agreement on climate change.  This is a historic achievement for people and the planet — but only if we follow through on the promises made.

We are entering a new era of opportunity.  Together, we can create the low-emissions future the world needs for sustainable development, and a life of dignity and stability for all.

Earth Hour reminds us that we all have a role to play.  We have come a long way, but the road ahead will require ambition and commitment.  It is a journey we must complete — for the sake of generations to come.

Join me on Earth Hour on 19 March at 8:30 p.m. at www.earthhour.org.  This is our time to change climate change.