London Summit Shows Climate Action Momentum as ‘Driver of Business Success and Economic Growth’, Says Secretary-General in Video Message

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s video message for the Business and Climate Summit, in London today:

Excellencies, distinguished representatives of the private sector, ladies and gentlemen,

I am pleased to address the 2016 Business and Climate Summit.

This meeting is another sign of the momentum behind climate action as a driver of business success and economic growth.

The signing of the historic Paris Agreement, and the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals, have created more opportunities than ever.

It is time to turn our aspirations into urgent implementation.

I have called on all nations to ratify the Paris Agreement for a rapid entry into force before the end of this year.  To meet our goals, we need 100 per cent participation from businesses around the world.

Through initiatives such as the UN Global Compact, many leading companies are taking on the challenge of pricing carbon, setting targets and building resilience.

I urge all of you to champion these efforts.

Your leadership is essential to building a sustainable future.

Thank you.