By Burak Bir
ANKARA (AA) - Sweden has announced a ban on issuing new licenses for the extraction of coal, oil, and natural gas from 1 July.
Speaking at an event marking World Environment Day in the capital Stockholm on Sunday, Environment Minister Annika Strandhall said the decision has been taken to protect people and planet.
"As part of our efforts to implement our climate ambitions, we must take actions against activities that have a negative impact on our health and our environment," Strandhall said.
She went on to say that those who accelerate the transition towards renewables will be "winners in the global race."
Organized by the UN Environment Program, World Environment Day is celebrated annually on June 5 in over 150 countries to encourage global awareness and action for the protection of the environment.