14 June 2012
Rio+20 Secretary-General Remains Optimistic About Outcomes
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Highlighting challenges ahead, Sha Zukang acknowledges current differences of opinion on how to advance a green economy in the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication, the institutional framework, and means of implementation.

Yet he expresses optimism that the opportunity presented by Rio+20 to muster the political will, and set the global agenda on sustainable development, will not go to waste.

13 June 2012: Sha Zukang, Secretary-General of the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (UNCSD, or Rio+20), speaks about the issues up for discussion at Rio+20, and his thoughts on what will make it a success, in an interview with the UN News Centre.

Sha says Rio+20 has the potential to deliver agreement on specific initiatives and commitments that can accelerate progress and advance well being. He underscores that one-fifth of humanity is currently severely deprived, lacking basic goods and services. Meanwhile, 20% of the population is consuming 80% of the Earth’s natural resources, an unsustainable situation. He stresses the need for change and action, inviting leaders coming to Rio to be “ready to commit.”

Regarding what would make Rio+20 successful, Sha stresses both participation and political outcome. He notes that over 135 Heads of State and Government are registered to attend, calling on Rio+20 to adopt a focused political document, building on the Rio Principles, Agenda 21 and the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation (JPOI).

Regarding challenges ahead, Sha acknowledges current differences of opinion on: how to advance a green economy in the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication, the institutional framework for sustainable development (IFSD), and means of implementation. Despite these differences, Sha expresses optimism that the opportunity presented by Rio+20 to muster political will and set the global agenda on sustainable development will not go to waste. [UN News Centre Interview with Sha Zukang]

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