UN environment assembly opens, calling on renewed attention to green economy, SDGs

The second edition of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-2) opened on Monday, with a call for concerted efforts to revitalize green economy and sustainability agenda.

Environment ministers and representatives from over 170 countries, scientists, industry executives and campaigners are attending the five day global environmental assembly.

UN chief Ban Ki-moon said in a message sent to the meeting that UNEA-2 provides a platform to promote global conversation on revitalizing the green and sustainability agenda.

"This assembly should discuss how to implement land mark agreements like sustainable development goals and Paris climate deal adopted last year," he said.

He challenged UN member states to hasten implementation of instruments that advance low-carbon and inclusive development. (Xinhua)