Speaking at a reception to welcome the UK Sustainable Development Commissioners to Belfast, Gerry Kelly, MLA, said: “We are building a society, not only for today, but for our children and our children’s children. The development of our economy must not be to the detriment of social and environmental considerations.
“Alone, we cannot solve global problems but we can help by reducing our use of traditional and polluting fossil fuels, and by seizing the opportunity to promote renewable and cleaner sources of energy.
“The issue of waste and need for greater resource efficiency also means we need to look at what we consume. Modern lifestyles have increasingly led to a throw-away society where, after investing so much into creating new products, nearly 70% of household waste is still sent to landfill.
“Individuals need to change their behaviour and embrace sustainable living as a way of life,” explained Mr Kelly.
The Commission, chaired by Jonathan Porritt, aims to develop new thinking on how government policy can best address economic, social and environmental concerns. During their visit they had an opportunity to meet Ministers, government officials and local stakeholders.
Ian Paisley Jnr, MLA, said: “As an Executive we aim to ensure that the principles of sustainable development underpin all our decision-making processes and become embedded in the day-to-day business of government. We recognise our society needs to embrace sustainable living now, to avoid adverse impacts on both present and future generations.
“If sustainable development is to be achieved, then the government, the public and businesses must play their part. The key to success lies in thinking globally and acting locally.
“There is much government can do through direct action in terms of how we build and operate our offices, schools, hospitals and social housing or in the way we purchase goods and services,” added Mr Paisley Jnr.
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