19 September 2009: The first “Global Climate Week” was launched on 19 September 2009, in Hamburg, Germany, initiating a week of synchronised activity around the world to encourage urgent action to combat climate change. Global Climate Week officially runs from 21-25 September 2009, involving activities by corporations, community groups and individuals around the world. It coincides with the Summit on Climate Change that UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will host on 22 September 2009, at UN Headquarters in New York, US.

Hamburg’s Climate Week aims to generate international awareness and to contribute to helping world leaders make decisions in Copenhagen that will steer economies and populations towards a healthy future. Over 60 events are scheduled, including the launch of a research boat, the Aldebaran, which is intended to serve as a symbol for successful dialogue between science and the media. Secretary-General Ban is leading the call for communities around the world to take advantage of the designated week to encourage leaders to seal a fair, balanced and effective agreement on climate change, stating that “no issue is more fundamental to long-term national security and sustainable prosperity.” [UNEP press release]