Istanbul: UN chief calls for sustainable energy for all

By Ebru Sengul

ISTANBUL (AA) - UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has urged world leaders to intensify efforts towards a sustainable energy future for the greater benefit of all.

Speaking via video conferencing at the World Energy Congress in Istanbul Wednesday, Ban expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to gather people together at the congress and commended the World Energy Council for helping shape the sustainability narrative through the energy trilemma concept.

The World Energy Council’s definition of energy sustainability is based on three core dimensions: energy security, energy equity, and environmental sustainability. These three goals constitute a "trilemma".

Last year, world leaders adapted the 23rd agenda for sustainable development and the Paris Agreement on climate change. "Our transformative approach to energy is critical to success," Ban said.

On Jan. 1, 2016, a total of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which were adopted by world leaders in September 2015 at a UN summit, officially came into force.

"Achieving our energy goals, including universal access, energy efficiency and renewable energy will open a new world of opportunity and investment. The World Energy Congress is one of the preeminent platforms for action," Ban said.

"Three years ago, in a message to the World Energy Congress in Peru, I called for your urgent action to bring the public and private sectors together to advance our collective efforts. Today, I urge you to intensify that great work towards a sustainable energy future for the greatest benefits of all," he added.