Jason Sudeikis calls for action on climate change as Angry Bird Red goes green

The Angry Birds Movie star Jason Sudeikis has called for action against climate change as his character was named an honorary environmental ambassador by United Nations secretary-general Ban Ki-moon.

Sudeikis, who voices Red in the upcoming animated film based on the popular video game, was joined by co-stars Josh Gad and Maya Rudolph to encourage people to recycle, save electricity and water and take public transport.

Addressing the UN General Assembly hall packed with young people, Sudeikis said: "I don't think there is anything that makes an angry bird happier than a healthy planet."

The actor, who has a one-year-old son, Otis, with actress Olivia Wilde, added: "We are all parents, some newer than others, and we want to leave a better world for our kids and teach them everyone is part of the solution."

Mr Ban, who posed with the feathered characters from the movie on the green carpet, said: "The Angry Birds have entertained millions of people around the world - and now they are part of making the world a better place.

"We are proud to give Red a reason to go green. There is no better way to mark the International Day of Happiness than to have our animated ambassador raise awareness about the importance of addressing climate change to create a safer, more sustainable and happier future for all."

The Angry Birds Movie will be released in UK cinemas on May 16.