The German Environmental Prize is the most important environmental award in Europe. The DBU’s Advisory Board Chairperson and Parliamentary State Secretary in the BMUB, Rita Schwarzelühr-Sutter, spoke about the Board’s message and goals in its decision on the prizewinners.
Tell us a bit about the board’s thinking in its selection of this year’s Environmental Prizewinners.
In view of the upcoming climate negotiations in Paris it was important to send a clear signal about the importance of climate protection and sustainability. With the recognition of the prizewinners, the DBU calls attention to efforts for the preservation of our planet, and to the significance of marine- and nature conservation.
What are your expectations regarding the UN Climate Summit Conference in Paris?
The summit must give the world a clear signal that the future path of global development is low in emissions and “climate-robust”. The new climate contract should contain a global long-term goal and an “ambition mechanism”, in order to maintain the 2-degree limit. All nations must undertake an obligation to implement corresponding national and international measures.
In your view, what is currently the most urgent priority in the implementation of global sustainability goals (SDG)?
The national implementation of global sustainability goals should take place on three levels: intranational measures aimed at sustainable development within Germany; transformation in our society which benefits the entire global community; and finally, support of our partner nations in the implementation of this agenda.
