Launching the latest report of the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate entitled “Unlocking the Inclusive Growth Story of the 21st century: Accelerating Climate Action in Urgent Times” with HE UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York together with my Commission co-chair Lord Nicholas Stern and Honorary Chair former President of Mexico Felipe Calderon. Also supported by Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohamed, Andrew Steer, Helen Mountford, Rachel Kyte and other distinguished participants.

This exciting report #UnlockingGrowth presents the new growth and development story of the 21st century essentially outlining the unprecedented economic opportunities that can be unlocked by pursuing a low carbon emissions sustainable growth path that unleashes a new climate economy.

If we act now the world can experience $26 trillion in economic benefits by 2030, create 65 million new jobs, and avert 700,000 premature deaths from pollution. These benefits will come through positive policies and actions in our energy and infrastructure systems, our cities, food and land use systems, water, and industry. And the need for a just transition that takes account of the needs of people and countries is emphasized.

Momentum is building with positive actions by business, civil society, and various levels of government.

The report presents concrete scalable policies and actions that can be built on. But we must act now and act urgently.