Yao becomes UN environment campaigner

Chinese superstar Yao Ming on Saturday became the UN Environment Program's (UNEP) first ever Environmental Champion, tasked with raising awareness of climate change and energy efficiency.

Yao, China's flag bearer in Friday's Olympic opening ceremony, said he wanted do his part in protecting the world.

"As a sportsman, I believe sport has a major role to play in promoting environmental issues," the Houston Rockets center said in a statement.

"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.