The quote emphasizes that addressing climate change requires a fundamental shift away from our current reliance on fossil fuels. It suggests that pursuing economic growth through the extensive burning of coal, oil, and gas is unsustainable and detrimental to long-term prosperity. Instead, it calls for embracing cleaner, more sustainable alternatives as we move forward.
Beyond its immediate message about the urgency of transitioning to renewable energy sources, this quote also highlights broader issues such as environmental sustainability and the interconnectedness of economic development and ecological health. It underscores the importance of innovation and systemic change in creating a future that is both economically viable and environmentally sound. By advocating for a "clean industrial revolution," Ban Ki-moon challenges us to rethink our approach to industry, energy use, and overall societal progress, pushing for solutions that benefit both present generations and future ones.
The quote comes from Ban Ki-moon, who served as the eighth Secretary-General of the United Nations from 2007 to 2016. During his tenure, he was a strong advocate for global environmental issues and worked extensively on climate change initiatives, emphasizing the need for international cooperation to address these challenges effectively.