Greenpeace’s presence at the first UN high-level Climate meeting was the result of endless hours of hard work from colleagues in Greenpeace International, Greenpeace China and Greenpeace USA. I think this truly demonstrates Greenpeace’s global significance. As our members, you should feel proud that your consistent support gives Greenpeace the strength to have an impact at the highest levels - thank you. We could not do this without you. Greenpeace, as a global organisation has been taken the lead in combating Climate Change for over 30 years! I was honoured to be selected as the only NGO representative to address this very important meeting.

China has overtaken the U.S as the world’s biggest emitter of carbon dioxide. This has led some to say: “China must act first”. But the truth is that CHINA IS ACTING! In addition to signing the Kyoto Protocol, China has already outlined measures to combat climate change, such as binding renewable energy and energy efficiency targets. China has also committed to a renewable energy target of 15% by 2020.

Actually, China’s efforts far exceed some of the large developed countries! While I was waiting to deliver my speech, Dr. Condoleezza Rice, United States Secretary of State, walked into the room and sat next to me. That was quite an interesting moment when we introduced ourselves to each other. I do think that as the world’s leading economy and richest nation, the US should join the Kyoto Protocol and tackle Climate Change!

I’m quite pleased with the outcome of the meeting because it was picked up by many very influential media. Our demand for a strong Bali Mandate, where nations sign up for deeper emissions cuts at the meeting in December, became louder and clearer. Climate Change affects everyone, with the most vulnerable being the poor in developing nations – it is a truly global issue and nothing less than a global response will do, everyone must act together. As the most prosperous city in China, and as a ‘world class’ city, Hong Kong can and must take action on climate change. The HKSAR gov’t should take up their responsibility of addressing the warming crisis by formulating policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The time to act is now, and Hong Kong must lead.

We will be organising an organic dinner for our members on the 16th November, and I invite all of you to come. During the dinner, I will share my experiences of the UN meeting and will talk more about China’s actions and the global climate change issue. Please stay tuned for details!

Time Running Out to Avoid a Devastating Climate Crisis, UN Warned (In English only)
24 September 07 - Press Conference on the High-Level Event on Climate Change (In English only)