Washington DC, July 11 (THAINDIAN NEWS) Edward Norton, who is the renowned American actor has been named by the United Nations Secretary General - Ban Ki-moon as the UN’s goodwill ambassador for biodiversity.

The “Kingdom Of Heaven” star was given the role because according to the UN chief, as he and his family has been involved in issues bordering on sustainable development and conservation. And so now Norton has a bigger role to play, in his new capacity.

But the actor said he would use his status as a celebrity to create awareness on the ideals of environmental conservation. He said with the help of the United Nations, he hoped to highlight the activities of the United Nations in helping the environment.

Norton over the years has been involved in campaigning for the environment. He has taken part in the New York Marathon to raise funds for trusts like the Massai Wilderness Conservation Trust. He is also a part of Crowdwise social network.

Norton acknowledged that his greatest challenge would be how he will make people accept the fact that the human beings’ well being is intertwined with biodiversity.

The United Nations has named 2010 as the UN’s International Year of Biodiversity.