By TIOL News Service

PARIS, JUNE 03, 2017: THE OECD Secretary General Angel Gurria has said that climate change is a clear and undeniable challenge that requires a global response. The Paris Agreement represents the careful crafting of a collective effort of over 190 countries to meet this challenge.

“Despite the US decision to withdraw from this agreement, it is reassuring that all of the remaining signatories have unequivocally reaffirmed their own commitments, demonstrating strong leadership toward the goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by the second half of the century," he added.

Mr Gurria has stated that reducing air pollution and the adverse impacts of climate change on water and food security will save millions of lives and significantly enhance the well-being of people around the world. Action on climate change is also good for the growth of national economies. OECD most recent work on the environment, Investing in Climate, Investing in Growth, shows that combining strong climate action – including a shift to green finance for a sustainable future – with fiscal and structural reforms will boost growth in both the short and long term. These benefits will be maximised if everyone works together, he added.

The OECD has urged countries, companies, cities, states, and citizens to step up their efforts in combatting climate change, in defending the future generations that it threatens, through ambitious outcomes under the Paris Agreement.