UN chief calls for revolution in energy efficiency

UNITED NATIONS, May 10 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan on Wednesday called for new approaches to energy use with a focus on greater efficiency, increased investment in renewable sources and new technologies.

Addressing the opening plenary of the high-level segment of the 14th session of the Commission on Sustainable Development, Annan said "we need a revolution in energy efficiency."

"We must capture and use that excess heat, and make greater use of hybrid vehicles and other energy-efficient technologies," he added.

Meanwhile, Annan called for cutting the pollution generated by fossil fuels, and pointed out that the high cost of oil imposes economic burdens on some poor countries while contributing to climate change.

Saying that renewable sources of energy remained woefully inadequate and underutilized, the secretary-general added that all countries needed to be more rigorous in carrying out what they have agreed to do with regards to energy and sustainable development.

More than 80 ministers are attending the Commission meeting, which lasts three days at the UN headquarters in New York.