“Sustainable energy can revitalize our economies, strengthen social equity, and catalyse a clean energy revolution that benefits all humanity. Acting together, we can open new horizons today and help power a brighter tomorrow.” – United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
The first annual Sustainable Energy Initiative for All (SE4ALL) Forum came to an end today. SE4ALL was launched by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon as a global initiative that would mobilize action from all sectors of society to support three objectives: ensuring universal access to modern energy services; doubling the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency; and doubling the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.
The forum was organized to mark the two year milestone since leaders declared: “We are all determined to act to make sustainable energy for all a reality and, through this, help to eradicate poverty and lead to sustainable development and global prosperity” and to celebrate the first year of the United Nations Decade of Sustainable Energy for All (2014-2024).
Secretary Ban ki-Moon shared a personal story as part of his closing remarks: “As you know I grew up in an energy poor country, Korea. There was no energy at all. I studied until I went to college under a very small kerosene lamp. There are still many many people using this. That’s why I am very conscious about saving energy, it is in my blood.”
The SE4ALL Forum assessed progress on sustainable energy since Rio, showcased success, share best practices, present new commitments, catalyzed action and helped shape the global energy debate for the next decade.
Kandeh Kumkella, Secretary General’s Special Representative and CEO for SE4ALL, announced that the initial years of the Decade would be focused on a campaign for energy access for women and children’s health closed the forum with his statement: “This movement has started now. It’s a long journey. We have just started the first step. We hope those who are managing energy in the future will keep in this movement in mind.”
A comparison of Low to High HDI countries shows the higher prioritization of ‘Reliable energy at home’ to countries with a lower human development index.
Low HDI Countries High HDI Countries
Though ‘Reliable energy at home’ is ranked low globally on the MY World Survey, there are strong links between Energy and Development, Water, Sustainability and Food showcased in the Worldwewant2015.org Visualizing People’s Voices results.
Compiled by Holly Borday – MY World Global Youth Advocate