We owe at least this much to future generations, from whom we have borrowed a fragile planet called Earth.

Well they do have a use, but we should never believe that any international conference is going to suddenly solve problems like the condition of the global environment.

Anyone who is seriously interested in me would usually do a little more homework and realise that the extreme criticisms are almost exclusively ideologically based.

I am President of the UN created University for Peace, which has a strong commitment to the relationship between peace, security and the environment. I meet with young people around the world and I always come away enthused and encouraged.

I was with Ted Turner when he came to see Kofi Annan - the Secretary-General of the UN - to announce his decision to put $1 billion to the service of UN projects and programs.

Nothing less than the fate of the planet is at stake... No place on the planet can remain an island of affluence in a sea of misery.

Nevertheless, the concept of sustainable development is now known - even amongst those who haven't accepted it - and it's recognized, debated and followed by an increasing number of businesses.