Climate Change and Sustainable Energy
The imminence and severity of the problems posed by the accelerating changes in the global climate are becoming increasingly evident. Heat waves are becoming more severe, droughts and downpours are becoming more intense, the Greenland Ice Sheet is shrinking and sea levels are rising.
The environment and the world’s societies are facing increasing stress, including the spreading of disease, conflict over resources and humanitarian crises as a result of mass migrations.
The technology exists to tackle these problems by seizing significant opportunities around the globe to reduce emissions and foster sustainable development, helping to meet the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals and expanding modern energy services to the poor.
TACKLING THE GLOBAL CLIMATE CHALLENGE
The Copenhagen climate change negotiations provide a new basis for countries to collectively tackle climate change. We are working with the UN Secretary-General and his Climate Team, government, business, and non-profit leaders to carry forward the progress made in Copenhagen. Learn more »
IMPROVING ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Energy efficiency is the cheapest, fastest and smartest strategy available for saving money and resources and reducing greenhouse gas emissions around the world. The UN Foundation is building support among UN, government and business leaders for a strategy to double the annual rate of global energy efficiency improvement. Learn more »
ACHIEVING UNIVERSAL ENERGY ACCESS
Access to clean and affordable modern energy is critical to fostering lasting social and economic development and to achieving the Millennium Development Goals. We are working with UN-Energy on a campaign to achieve universal energy access by 2030. Learn more »
LATEST STORY OF IMPACT
U.S. Energy Policy: The Opportunities Available Now
Area of Involvement: Climate & Energy
In a June 16 speech to United States Energy Association/Johnson Controls Energy Efficiency Forum, United Nations Foundation President Timothy E. Wirth emphasized five crucial components that should form the cornerstones of a new energy policy for the United States. The speech was given just hours after President Obama addressed the nation in response to the unfolding environmental crisis in the Gulf of Mexico.
