The clear and present danger of climate change means we cannot burn our way to prosperity. We already rely too heavily on fossil fuels. We need to find a new, sustainable path to the future we want. We need a clean industrial revolution.

In this quote, Ban Ki-moon emphasizes the urgency of addressing climate change and the dangers of continuing to rely on fossil fuels. He points out that the current model of economic growth, based on the burning of fossil fuels, is unsustainable and cannot lead to lasting prosperity. The phrase "clear and present danger" highlights the immediate and pressing nature of the climate crisis, urging society to take action before it's too late.

Ban Ki-moon advocates for a new approach to progress, one that focuses on sustainability and the need to transition away from fossil fuels towards cleaner, more eco-friendly alternatives. His call for a clean industrial revolution suggests that the future of industry must be rooted in renewable energy, technology, and innovation. This shift, he argues, is not just necessary for environmental reasons but also for the long-term stability of economies and societies.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Ban Ki-moon’s leadership as the 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations. Throughout his tenure, he was a vocal advocate for global action on climate change and sustainable development, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to address environmental challenges. His words reflect his vision for a world that balances economic growth with environmental responsibility, a central theme in his work on the Paris Agreement and other international climate initiatives.

Ban Ki-moon’s statement calls for global cooperation to create a future that is not dependent on harmful energy sources but instead embraces solutions that are environmentally friendly and socially responsible. His vision of a clean industrial revolution underscores the need for transformational change, where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand to build a better world for future generations.