Reducing black carbon, methane and ozone emissions could save 2.5 million lives a year based on measures proposed by UNEP issued Report - a package of 16 measures that could also avoid crop losses amounting to 32 million tons annually, and help keep the global temperature rise below the two degree Celsius target over the next 40 years. The measures target emissions of black carbon, methane and ground-level ozone, also known as short-lived climate forcers (SLCFs), and their implementation would allow countries to save rather than spend resources and money. Suggested measures include cutting black carbon emissions by replacing inefficient cook stoves and brick ovens, which would cut fuel costs for households and oven operators, and upgrading wastewater treatment works to reduce methane emissions and improve sanitation and water quality. READ – “Curbing Soot & Smog Pollution Multiple Benefits-UN” - diplomaticallyincorrect.org/films/blog_post/curbing-soot-and-smog-pollution-multiple-benefits-un-by-susan-sacirbey/29522 ). Urgency; But the report warns that quick and decisive action from governments is needed so that the measures can have an impact before it is too late. Read: -“Environment Emergencies Ahead of Rio+20” - diplomaticallyincorrect.org/films/blog_post/environment-emergencies-ahead-of-rio20-by-ambassador-mo/39348 According to Achim Steiner, UNEP Executive Director . “For some countries the most important benefits result from cost-effective improvements in air pollution and reduced illness and loss of life – black carbon, for example, could be controlled under national and regional air quality agreements. Other countries are also recognizing the food security benefits in terms of reduced crop damage in a world of seven billion people. For others, it may be the regional and global climate benefits that are uppermost in their minds – whatever the motivation, this report presents the costs and the benefits that can play their part towards a sustainable 21st century as governments head towards Rio+20 [UN conference on sustainable development, to be held in Rio de Janeiro] in June next year.” Link to UNEP Report - www.unep.org/publications/ebooks/SLCF/ By Ambassador Muhamed Sacirbey Facebook Become a Fan – “Diplomatically Incorrect” Twitter Follow us - DiplomaticallyX More at Ecology-Diplomat - diplomaticallyincorrect.org/c/ecology-diplomat/most_recent/1