2 November
2009 –Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today urged
leaders of stock exchanges and financial institutions to better manage and
integrate environmental, social and governance issues into their business
practices.
In
a videomessageto a gathering at United Nations
Headquarters of more than 60 top executives from around the world, Mr. Ban said
that these so-called "ESG” issues are critical in creating a world economy that
is more stable, inclusive and sustainable.
"Stock
exchanges and other financial bodies and institutions have a key role to play,”
he told the group, which is meeting to explore ways in which stock exchanges
can promote sustainable business practices and long-term approaches to
investment.