United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has designated Academy Award-nominated actor and environmental activist Leonardo DiCaprio a UN Messenger of Peace with a special focus on climate change, the world body said Wednesday.
“Mr. DiCaprio is a credible voice in the environmental movement, and has a considerable platform to amplify its message,” Ban said in a statement.
“I am pleased he has chosen to add his voice to UN efforts to raise awareness of the urgency and benefits of acting now to combat climate change.”
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I feel a moral obligation to speak out at this key moment in human history — it is a moment for action
Leonardo DiCaprio, Hollywood actor
Ban has invited the actor to address the UN Climate Summit on September 23.
The summit brings together leaders from government, business, finance and civil society to promote climate action for a healthy planet, sustainable economic growth and better standards of living.
“It’s an honor to accept the role of UN Messenger of Peace on Climate Change and to support the Secretary General in his efforts to address one of the most important issues we face as a global community,” DiCaprio said of his appointment.
“I feel a moral obligation to speak out at this key moment in human history — it is a moment for action. How we respond to the climate crisis in the coming years will likely determine the fate of humanity and our planet.”
In 1998, the actor established the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation, whose mission is to protect the Earth’s last wild places. He has also worked on pressing environmental and humanitarian issues.
He joins 11 other Messengers of Peace, individuals who possess widely recognized talents in the fields of art, film, literature, music and sports, who help raise worldwide awareness of the UN’s ideals and activities.
