1. Chair, Ladies and Gentlemen. The UK aligns itself with the statement made
by Germany on behalf of the EU.
2. Five years ago in Johannesburg we agreed to take collective action, to turn
our commitments into implementation and to achieve sustainable
development. Today, the need to take action has become more urgent.
3. CSD14 took stock of progress on the critical issues of energy for
sustainable development, climate change, industrial development and air
pollution. We heard then that progress is not keeping pace with the rate at
which our environment is degrading and our climate is changing.
4. I am hearing the message ?must do better? again and again. The IPPC
report tells us that our current level of activity is unacceptable. More needs to
be done and it needs to be done now. This CSD offers us a unique
opportunity to do just that.
5. I want to build on a few of the EU priorities outlined by Germany. At this
CSD we must agree some central actions that will help us all. Actions such as
integrating the four thematic cluster issues into country-led development plans
and development assistance strategies. This will ensure a coherent approach
to our economic, social and development priorities and make real progress
towards the Millennium Development Goals and Johannesburg Commitments.
6. Energy supply and access is crucial. We know that fossil fuel will continue
to be used. We should agree to share experience on how to increase energy
efficiency, and promote both the development and deployment of renewables
and of cleaner technologies including safe carbon capture and storage. These
technologies will help reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions and
maximise resource efficiency, stimulating jobs and growth. This is a must.
7. We need to recognise the special needs and characteristics of each
country and region. The EU has decided on its own time-bound targets, and
thinks that if others do that they will reap benefits.
8. Much has been said about capacity building and finance. We should
facilitate access to finance, making best use of the Clean Development
Mechanism and Clean Energy Investment Framework.
9. I am optimistic that we can make significant process in the next few years.
Let?s get on with it and move forward this week.
