Rather than just complaining about climate change, the United Nations is taking steps to finally do something about it! Today, Friday August 4th, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon will begin a month-long experiment in which the temperature inside the UN Headquarters in New York will be raised by five degrees, from 72 to 77 degrees. The air conditioning will also be switched off on weekends.

The experiment is called "Cool UN" and is aimed at helping the world body save energy and cut carbon gas emissions, as well as save about $100,000 in costs. The UN is hoping to act as a role model for global action on climate change, hoping to inspire and lead others by its good example.

This experiment will also allow engineers to test energy consumption and utility costs in the UN building. Some officials also hope that the extra 5 degrees of heat will give diplomats more compassion for people living in the developing world, where heat and humidity often become the norm.

Mr. Ban is also encouraging a more casual dress code, and is encouraging bureaucrats and diplomats to wear their national dress within the headquarters to help them maintain comfort in the warmer atmosphere.

My opinion....: I feel that this is definitely a good symbolic gesture. Yet, so much more can and needs to be done by the UN. I feel that this is a measure that could have been established much before, and should be continued much past the one-month long time span currently proposed. This example certainly needs to be followed by civil society as well as corporate actors around the world, in order to make any tangible impact. Still, it is a good symbolic gesture on the part of Mr. Ban.

What do you think about this issue? Is the UN doing enough? What more can be done? How can young people contribute? Please leave your questions, comments and feedback here!

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