Global survey puts globe at risk

An international survey conducted by the United Nations has revealed that production processes around the world will have to be significantly overhauled if poverty is to be eliminated and environmental issues facing the planet overcome.

The report, entitled The Great Green Technological Transformation was released at the Australian National University this week.

ANU PhD scholar Imran Habib Ahmad, said this year’s report revealed that major investments would be needed worldwide in areas such as the development and scaling up of clean energy technologies, sustainable farming and forestry techniques and the climate-proofing of infrastructure.

“This report will be a very helpful contribution to the ongoing national policy discussions on climate change and green economy developments in both developed and developing countries,” Mr Ahmad said.

“It details the measures needed to undertake a fundamental technological transformation, not only to promote growth, but also to help reach the goal of full decarbonisation of the global energy system by 2050.”

He said the latest figures built on a 2009 survey for the UN Department for Economic and Social Affairs – Promoting Development, Saving the Planet – which he was involved in.

He said the 2009 report articulated an integrated approach to dealing with the climate and development challenge, using a comprehensive set of measures with an investment driven approach including a price mechanism.

Under-Secretary General of the UN-DESA, Sha Zukang who oversaw the 2011 report, said it showed how important technological progress would be for ensuring a future that benefited everyone while protecting the planet.

He said the report was also paramount in the lead up to of the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) in June 2012 in Brazil, of which he is also Secretary-General.

“The report is required reading as we gear up for Rio+20, which is an opportunity to define pathways to a safer, cleaner and more prosperous world for all,” Mr Sha said. –http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn279f7.html