China's globally known basketball player Yao Ming became the first "Environmental Champion" of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) on Saturday.

The UNEP aims to raise public awareness of the environment and climate change issues.

Achim Steiner, the UNEP's executive director, announced the news at a press conference at the Beijing International Media Center on Saturday afternoon.

He said in his statement that he hoped Yao, "as one of the most high-profile athletes ... and with a fan base of millions across the world" could help raise public awareness.

Yao, China's flag bearer in Friday's Olympic opening ceremony, said he was "delighted and greatly honored" to accept the role.

"As a sportsman, I believe sport has a major role to play in promoting environmental issues," Yao said in a statement. "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 become environmental champions in their own communities.

"As the world celebrates the Beijing Olympic Games, I would also like to call upon the organizers of all major sports events to make sure they use public transport, build proper waste management systems and use greener forms of energy.

"Please join me in this global team effort."

Steiner told reporters that he believed Yao would become a role model for the world. He thanked Yao for joining and called on more people to protect the environment.

(Xinhua News Agency August 9, 2008)