Former Norwegian environment minister installed as UNEP boss

The former Norwegian minister for environment and international development, Erik Solheim on Monday began his tenure as the new Executive Director of the UN Environment Program (UNEP).

Solheim who served as the environment minister between 2007-2012, took over the reins of the Nairobi based global environment body from Achim Steiner who heads to Oxford University's Martin School where he will be a faculty member.

While taking over his new leadership role at the helm of the UN environment body, Solheim pledged to work with national governments to revitalize action on pressing ecological challenges like climate change alongside ocean and air pollution.

"There is an urgent need to fight climate change, halt ecosystem destruction and reduce pollution for the benefit of all peoples everywhere," Solhem said.

He stressed that a healthy planet augurs well for people's livelihoods, economic progress, peace and stability.

Previously, the Norwegian national headed the development assistance committee (DAC) of the Paris based think tank Organization for economic cooperation and Development (OECD).

He has also served as UNEP's special envoy for environment, conflict and disaster.

The 61 year old father of four holds an undergraduate degree in history and social studies from the University of Oslo.

At the global stage, Solheim has won accolades for championing the green agenda alongside peace and reconciliation in conflict zones.

During his installation as new UNEP boss, Solheim said robust investments from governments and industry were an imperative to advance the green and sustainability agenda.

"Financing the preservation and rejuvenation of our planet cannot be the purview of governments alone. Private sector finance is both vital for sustainable development as well as an opportunity for business,"Solheim said.

He hailed the adoption of Paris climate deal and sustainable development goals (SDGs) terming it a milestone in greening the planet to catalyze socio-economic transformation.

The new UNEP chief was emphatic that international solidarity was key to find durable solutions to ecological threats facing the planet.

"Our planet is vulnerable but I am optimistic we can resolve the environmental problems we face. There is little we cannot achieve when we pull together with cooperation, collaboration and a can do attitude,"Solheim said. Endit