Video message of Sergey Donskoy, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment of the Russian Federation
Text translated into English
Speech of Sergey Donskoy, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment
Dear students!
In the first place, let me congratulate the winners. I saw most of the works and can say that they were done to a high standard. I also think that every one of those who did not get the first prize today has gained a small but very important victory: acceptance of responsibility for his or her own future.
Today we are close to solving the problem of using ozone depleting substances. A ban on importation products containing ODS was imposed; we support industrial enterprises in their shift to manufacture of ozone-safe products; we elaborate the ODS destruction system and block their illegal use.
The case about climate change is somewhat different. You know that in the last ten years the average temperature increased almost by one degree. As a result of these changes, many economies including ours may suffer serious losses. They are suffering them now, though. In solving this problem, the key role is played by public authorities and international institutions that direct their efforts towards efficient regulation and reduction of greenhouse gases emissions. At the same time, a great deal will depend on the responsible attitude of the business circles to which many of you will belong in future.
I hope sincerely that participation in the competition and especially the victory will give you confidence that even global problems can be solved through joining of efforts for the sake of the common goal: protection of our future on the Earth.