Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon started the countdown clock to the 2012 Olympic Games, noting that sustainability will be his “number one priority in the years to come" and welcoming the Games' emphasis on clean energy and eco-friendly development.
The Organizing Committee has pledged to try to minimize greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, waste, and impacts on local wildlife.
27 July 2011: UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon started the countdown clock to the next Olympic Games, which have been dedicated to sustainability. The Organizing Committee has pledged to attempt to make the 2012 Games environmentally-friendly by minimizing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, waste and the impact of the Games on local wildlife.
The next Olympic Games will open on 27 July 2012, in London, UK. Before connecting the wires to the countdown clock, Secretary-General Ban stressed that sustainability will be his “number one priority in the years to come.” He said he currently is consulting with States on how to incorporate their views and priorities into achievement of the goal. He welcomed the upcoming Games’ emphasis on clean energy and eco-friendly development. Ban also noted the hope at the UN for a “temporary respite from conflict,” through the Olympic Truce proclaimed by the UN General Assembly for each Olympics. [UN News Centre] [Statement of UN Secretary-General] [UNDP Press Release]