Yao Ming is offically a champion in environmental causes. Previously, he spoke against the killing of sharks for their fins; used mainly in Chinese delicacy dishes. He was also featured in WildAid's advertising campaign against the killing of endangered species.
Now, this basketball superstar and top Olympic athlete was recently appointed the UN Environment Program's first-ever Environmental Champion. As one of the more famous athletes in China, his support will only add to the conversation on environmental issues and climate change. He describes his new role below:
"As a sportsman, I believe sport has a major role to play in promoting environmental issues so I will work with young people across the world and try to inspire them to plant trees, use energy efficient light bulbs, harvest rain water and to become environmental champions in their own communities."
