WASHINGTON (APRIL 21, 2016)– Tomorrow, country representatives from around the world are gathering in New York City for the Paris Agreement Signing Ceremony. Over 150 countries have indicated they will formally sign the agreement, far exceeding the most first-day signatures any international pact in history.

Following is a statement from Andrew Steer, president and CEO, World Resources Institute:

“The signing ceremony is a remarkable reflection of the global consensus for ambitious climate action. The number of first-day signatories—perhaps as many as 150 countries—is likely to exceed any international pact in history.

“The signing could not come soon enough. Each month since the Paris Agreement was reached has brought fresh evidence that Mother Nature has a fever and all life on Earth is suffering the consequences.

“The climate focus now pivots from diplomacy to implementation. The challenge is to find ways to work together to accelerate the work already begun by national governments, mayors, CEOs, civil society groups and citizens around the world. As more than 20 countries have shown, we can grow our economies without also increasing emissions.

“On Earth Day, as we celebrate this wonderful planet we all enjoy, we are heartened by the growing resolve to protect our future. Pivoting from commitment to implementation will ensure that people can enjoy its fruits for generations to come.”

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