Maurice Strong
Maurice Strong
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Maurice Frederick Strong was born on April 29, 1919, in Oak Lake, Manitoba, Canada.
Birth and Death Dates
April 29, 1919 – November 28, 2015
Nationality and Profession(s)
Strong's nationality was Canadian. He was a diplomat, entrepreneur, and environmentalist by profession.
Early Life and Background
Maurice Strong grew up in a family of modest means. His early life was marked by poverty and hardship. However, his parents instilled in him a strong sense of values and a determination to succeed. Strong's upbringing had a profound impact on his future endeavors as an environmentalist and philanthropist.
Strong began his career at the age of 15, working for the Bank of Montreal in Calgary. He eventually moved to Ottawa, where he became involved in politics and government service. During World War II, Strong served in the Canadian Army Intelligence Corps. After the war, he transitioned into diplomatic work with the Canadian Foreign Service.
Major Accomplishments
Strong's most notable accomplishment was his role as the first Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment (UNCHE) in 1972. He played a pivotal part in establishing the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Strong also served as the Under-Secretary General of the United Nations, where he worked closely with U Thant and other world leaders.
In addition to his work at the UN, Strong was instrumental in creating the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) in 1990. He also co-chaired the Earth Charter Commission, a global initiative aimed at promoting sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Maurice Strong's notable works include:
Organizing the 1972 Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment
Founding the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) in 1990
* Co-chairing the Earth Charter Commission, a global initiative promoting sustainable development and environmental stewardship
Impact and Legacy
Maurice Strong's impact on the world is immeasurable. His tireless efforts to promote sustainable development and protect the environment have left an indelible mark on our planet. As one of the pioneers in the field of international environmental diplomacy, Strong has inspired generations of leaders and policymakers.
His work at the UN and through various organizations he founded has led to significant improvements in global health, poverty reduction, and environmental protection. The impact of his legacy can be seen in the many programs and initiatives that have been established to address pressing global challenges.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Maurice Strong is widely quoted and remembered for his visionary leadership on environmental issues. He was a true pioneer in recognizing the interconnectedness of human well-being, economic development, and environmental sustainability. His commitment to sustainable development has inspired countless individuals around the world to work towards creating a more equitable and environmentally conscious future.
Strong's quotes are often sought after because they offer valuable insights into the importance of collective action on global issues. His words continue to inspire leaders, policymakers, and ordinary citizens alike to strive for a better world.
Quotes by Maurice Strong
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.
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.
I’ve got used to criticisms and, naturally, I try to make sure I don’t listen to the more extreme ones because most of the people who have taken their right-wing extremist view of my life are people that I’ve never met.
I’ve developed a huge regard for Toyota for its environmental awareness, for its immense commitment to research and development in this field, and for its leadership in developing hybrids which others are now following.
After all, sustainability means running the global environment – Earth Inc. – like a corporation: with depreciation, amortization and maintenance accounts. In other words, keeping the asset whole, rather than undermining your natural capital.
Don’t accept that you can’t make a difference. Because if you can’t make a difference, you won’t make a difference, and if you put a multiplier on that we will continue on an unsustainable pathway.
What pleases me most is that sustainable development is on almost everybody’s agenda now.
Current lifestyles and consumption patterns of the affluent middle class – involving high meat intake, use of fossil fuels, appliances, air-conditioning, and suburban housing – are not sustainable.
Either we reduce the world’s population voluntarily or nature will do this for us, but brutally.