Former Vice President, Al Gore, and Dr. Rajendra Pachauri,
President of the UN Intergovernmental Program on Climate Change (IPCC),
received the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize for their work to combat climate change.
The Nobel committee sees the relationship between the environment and peace — and so do we.
I've
met both men several times in the past decade, and each has endorsed the GENI
Initiative:
"A global energy network makes enormous sense
if we are to meet global energy needs with a minimal impact on the world's environment." - Al Gore.
"Interconnecting grids internationally would
permit the generation and transfer of electricity at least possible cost, which
would not only ensure efficient utilization of natural resources, but also
provide access top tapping efficiently generated powers across international
boundaries. The environmental and economic benefits from this approach could
have revolutionary significance." - Dr. Pachauri.
It's
an honor to have their support. Even more important is to accelerate this
work. Achim Steiner has just issued the UNEP's
5 year report on our planet's
health. The prognosis is not good. The risks from population growth,
deforestation, biodiversity and fishery loss threaten human sustainability. And
while climate change will require a 50% cut in carbon emissions by 2050,
government actions have been woefully inadequate. (see attached)
While leading the World Conservation Union (IUCN), Achim
Steiner endorsed the GENI strategy, stating that "current patterns of energy production,
transport and use are both unsustainable and carry significant risks for
society. The IUCN is therefore very pleased to endorse the work of GENI." These
endorsements are important — but what's needed now
is for business leaders and governments to change policy and practice. We'll keep pushing — and we invite you to renew
your financial pledge today so we can drive even faster.
