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61
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1
Chapter 27
Strengthening the Role of Non-Governmental Organisations:
Partners for Sustainable Develcpment
PROGRAMME AREA
Basis for action
27.1 Non-governmental organizations play a vital role in the shaping and
implementation of participatory democracy. Their credibility lies in the
responsible and constructive role they play in society. Formal and informal
organizations, as well as grass-roots movements, should be recognized as partners
in the implementation of Agenda 21. The nature of the independent role played
by non-governmental organizations within a society calls for real participation;
therefore, independence is a major attribute of non-governmental organizations
and is the precondition of real participation.
27.2 One of the major challenges facing the world community as it seeks to
replace unsustainable development patterns with environmentally sound and
sustainable development is the need to activate a sense of common purpose on
behalf of all sectors of society. The chances of forging such a sense of purpose
will depend on the willingness of all sectors to participate in genuine social
partnership and dialogue, while recognizing the independent roles,
responsibilities and special capacities of each.
27.3
Non-governmental organizations, including those non-profit organizations
representing groups addressed in the present section of Agenda 21, possess
well-established and diverse experience, expertise and capacity in fields which
will be of particular importance to the implementation and review of
environmentally sound and socially responsible sustainable development, as
envisaged throughout Agenda/21. The community of non-governmental organizations,
therefore offers a global network which should be tapped, enabled and
strengthened in support of efforts to achieve these common goals.
27.4 To ensure that the full potential contribution of non-governmental
organizations is realized, the fullest possible communication and cooperation
between international organizations, national and local governments and
non-governmental organizations should be promoted in institutions mandated, and
programmes designed to carry out Agenda 21. Non-governmental organizations will
also need to foster cooperation and communication among themselves to reinforce
their effectiveness as actors in the implementation of sustainable development.
Objectives
27.5
Society, Governments and international bodies should develop mechanisms
to allow non-governmental organizations to play their partnership role
responsibly and effectively in the process of environmentally sound and
sustainable development.
27.6 With a view to strengthening the role of non-governmental organizations
as social partners, the United Nations system and Governments should initiate a
process, in consultation with non-governmental organizations, to review formal
procedures and mechanisms for the involvement of these organizations at all
levels from policy-making and decision-making to implementation.
27.7 By 1995, a mutually productive dialogue should be established at the
national level between all Governments and non-governmental organizations and
their self-organized networks to recognize and strengthen their respective roles
in implementing environmentally sound and sustainable development.
27.8 Governments and international bodies should promote and allow the
participation of non-governmental organizations in the conception, establishment
and evaluation of official mechanisms and formal procedures designed to review
the implementation of Agenda 21 at all levels.
Activities
27.9 The United Nations system, including international finance and
development agencies, and all intergovernmental organizations and forums should,
in consultation with non-governmental organizations, take measures to:
(a) Review and report on ways of enhancing existing procedures and
mechanisms by which non-governmental organizations contribute to policy design,
decision-making, implementation and evaluation at the individual agency level,
in inter-agency discussions and in United Nations conferences;
(b) On the basis of subparagraph (a) above, enhance existing or, where
they do not exist, establish, mechanisms and procedures within each agency to
draw on the expertise and views of non-governmental organizations in policy and
programme design, implementation and evaluation;
(c) Review levels of financial and administrative support for
non-governmental organizations and the extent and effectiveness of their
involvement in project and programme implementation, with a view to augmenting
their role as social partners;
(d) Design open and effective means of achieving the participation of
non-governmental organizations in the processes established to review and
evaluate the implementation of Agenda 21 at all levels;
(e) Promote and allow non-governmental organizations and their
self-organized networks to contribute to the review and evaluation of policies
and programmes designed to implement Agenda 21, including support for developing
country non-governmental organizations and their self-organized networks;
(f) Take into account the findings of non-governmental review systems and
evaluation processes in relevant reports of the United Nations Secretary-General
to the General Assembly, and of all pertinent United Nations organizations and
other intergovernmental organizations and forums concerning implementation of
Agenda 21, in accordance with the review process for Agenda/21;
(g) Provide access for non-governmental organizations to accurate and
timely data and information to promote the effectiveness of their programmes and
activities and their roles in support of sustainable development.
27.10 Governments should take measures to:
(a) Establish or enhance an existing dialogue with non-governmental
organizations and their self-organized networks representing various sectors,
which could serve to: (i) consider the rights and responsibilities of these
organizations; (ii) efficiently channel integrated non-governmental inputs to the
governmental policy development process; and (iii) facilitate non-governmental
coordination in implementing national policies at the programme level;
(b) Encourage and enable partnership and dialogue between local
non-governmental organizations and local authorities in activities aimed at
sustainable development;
(c) Involve non-governmental organizations in national mechanisms or
procedures established to carry out Agenda 21, making the best use of their
particular capacities, especially in the fields of education, poverty alleviation
and environmental protection and rehabilitation;
(d) Take into account the findings of non-governmental monitering and
review mechanisms in the design and evaluation of policies concerning the
implementation of Agenda 21 at all levels;
(e) Review government education systems to identify ways to include and
expand the involvement of non-governmental organizations in the field of formal
and informal education and of public awareness;
(f) Make available and accessible to non-governmental organizations the
data and information necessary for their effective contribution to research and
to the design, implementation and evaluation of programmes.
Means of implementation
[ (a)
Financing and cost evaluation
27.11 Depending on the outcome of review processes and the evolution of views
as to how best to build partnership and dialogue between official organizations
and groups of non-governmental organizations, relatively limited, but
unpredictable, costs will be involved at the international and national levels
in enhancing consultative procedures and mechanisms. Non-governmental
organizations will also require additional funding in support of their
establishment of, improvement of or contributions to Agenda 21 monitoring
systems. These costs will be significant but cannot be reliably estimated on the
basis of existing information.]
[(b)
Capacity-building
27.12 The organizations of the United Nations system and other
intergovernmental organizations and forums will need to provide increased
financial and administrative support for non-governmental organizations and their
self-organized networks contributing to the monitoring and evaluation of
Agenda/21 programmes, and provide training for non-governmental organizations
(and assist them to develop their own training programmes) at the international
and regional levels to enhance their partnership role in programme design and
implementation.
27.13 Governments will need to promulgate any legislative measures necessary
to enable the establishment by non-governmental organizations of consultative
groups, and to ensure [the right of non-governmental organizations to protect the
public interest through legal action] or [access by non-governmental
organizations with a recognized legal interest to judicial and administrative
procedures] .]*
Chapter 28
Local Authorities Initiatives in Support of Agenda 21
PROGRAMME AREA
Basis for action
28.1 Because so many of the problems and solutions being addressed by
Agenda/21 have their roots in local activities, the participation and cooperation
of local authorities will be a determining factor in fulfilling its objectives.
Local authorities construct, operate and maintain economic, social and
environmental infrastructure, oversee planning processes, establish local
environmental policies and regulations, and assist in implementing national and
subnational environmental policies. As the level of governance closest to the
people, they play a vital role in educating, mobilizing and responding to the
public to promote sustainable development.
Objectives
28.2
The following objectives are proposed for this programme area:
(a) By 1996, most local authorities in each country should have
undertaken a consultative process with their populations and achieved a consensus
on "a local Agenda 21" for the community;
(b) By 1993, the international community should have initiated a
consultative process aimed at increasing cooperation between local authorities;
(c) By 1994, representatives of associations of cities and other local
authorities should have increased levels of cooperation and coordination with the
goal of enhancing the exchange of information and experience among local
authorities;
(d) All local authorities in each country should be encouraged to
implement and monitor programmes which aim at ensuring that women and youth are
represented in decision-making, planning and implementation processes.
Activities
28.3 Each local authority should enter into a dialogue with its citizens,
local organizations and private enterprises and adopt "a local Agenda 21".
Through consultation and consensus-building, local authorities would learn from
citizens and from local, civic, community, business and industrial organizations
and acquire the information needed for formulating the best strategies. The
process of consultation would increase household awareness of sustainable
development issues. Local authority programmes, policies, laws and regulations
to achieve Agenda 21 objectives would be assessed and modified, based on local
programmes adopted. Strategies could also be used in supporting proposals for
local, national, regional and international funding.
28.4 Partnerships should be fostered among relevant organs and organizations
such as UNDP, the United Nations Centre for Human Settlements (Habitat) and the
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the World Bank, regional banks, the
International Union of Local Authorities, the World Association of the Major
Metropolises, Summit of Great Cities of the World, the United Towns Organization
and other relevant partners, with a view to mobilizing increased international
support for local authority programmes. An important goal would be to support,
extend and improve existing institutions working in the field of local authority
capacity-building and local environment management. For this purpose:
(a) Habitat and other relevant organs and organizations of the United
Nations system are called upon to strengthen services in collecting information
on strategies of local authorities, in particular for those that need
international support;
(b) Periodic consultations involving both international partners and
developing countries could review strategies and consider how such international
support could best be mobilized. Such a sectoral consultation would complement
concurrent country-focused consultations, such as those taking place in
consultative groups and round tables.
28.5
Representatives of associations of local authorities are encouraged to
establish processes to increase the exchange of information, experience and
mutual technical assistance among local authorities.
Means of implementation
[ (a)
Financing and cost evaluation
28.6 Financing for the first activity would be at the local level. In
general, donors have not given high priority to funding for urban local
authorities and the institutions that these local authorities have themselves
established to provide them with training and support. International funding
will play a catalytic role and be especially helpful in training,
institution-building and in introducing new approaches to solving problems
related to urban development and environment. In view of the projected increase
in urban population and the increased proportion of income expected to be
generated in urban communities, priority for funding urban programmes should be
reassessed. Rather than estimate costs under this programme area the costs have
been estimated in other parts of Agenda 21. UNDP and Habitat will need to be
strengthened to provide secretariat services for the funding and information
exchange functions. These costs are estimated at $1/million annually.)
[ (b) Human resource development and capacity-building
28.7 This programme should facilitate the capacity-building and training
activities already contained in other chapters of Agenda 21.]*
Chapter 29
Strengthening the Role of Workers and Their Trade Unions
PROGRAMME AREA
Basis for action
29.1 Efforts to implement sustainable development will involve adjustments and
opportunities at the national and enterprise level, with workers foremost among
those concerned. As their representatives, trade unions are vital actors in
facilitating the achievement of sustainable development in view of their
experience in addressing industrial change, the extremely high priority they give
to protection of the working environment and the related natural environment, and
their promotion of socially responsible and economic development. The existing
network of collaboration among trade unions, and their extensive membership,
provide important channels through which the concepts and practices of
sustainable development can be supported. The established principles of
tripartism provide a basis for strengthened collaboration between workers and
their representatives, Governments and employers in the implementation of
sustainable development.
Objectives
29.2 The overall objective is poverty alleviation and full and sustainable
employment, which contribute to safe, clean and healthy environments - the
working environment, the community and the physical environment. Workers should
be full participants in the implementation and evaluation of activities related
to Agenda 21.
29.3 To that end the following objectives are proposed for accomplishment by
the year 2000:
(a) To promote ratification of relevant conventions of ILO and the
enactment of legislation in support of those conventions;
(b) To establish bipartite and tripartite mechanisms on safety, health
and sustainable development;
(c) To increase the number of environmental collective agreements aimed
at achieving sustainable development;
(d) To reduce occupational accidents, injuries and diseases according to
recognized statistical reporting procedures;
(e) To increase the provision of workers' education, training and
retraining, particularly in the area of occupational health and safety and
environment.
Activities
(a) Promote freedom of association
29.4 For workers and their trade unions to play a full and informed role in
support of sustainable development, Governments and employers should promote the
rights of individual workers to freedom of association, and the protection of the
right to organize as laid down in ILO conventions. Governments should consider
ratifying and implementing those conventions, if they have not already done SO.
(b) Strengthen participation and consultation
29.5 Governments, business and industry should promote the active
participation of workers and their trade unions in decisions on the design,
implementation and evaluation of national and international policies and
programmes on environment and development, including employment policies,
industrial strategies, labour adjustment programmes and technology transfers.
29.6 Trade unions, employers and Governments should cooperate to ensure that
the concept of sustainable development is equitably implemented.
29.7 Joint (employer/worker) or tripartite (employer/worker/Government)
collaborative mechanisms at the workplace, community and national levels should
be established to deal with safety, health and environment, including special
reference to the rights and status of women in the workplace.
29.8 Governments and employers should ensure that workers and their
representatives are provided with all relevant information to enable effective
participation in these decision-making processes.
29.9 Trade unions should continue to define, develop and promote policies on
all aspects of sustainable development.
29.10 Trade unions and employers should establish the framework for a joint
environmental policy, and set priorities to improve the working environment and
the overall environmental performance of enterprise.
29.11 Trade unions should:
(a) Seek to ensure that workers are able to participate in environmental
audits at the workplace and in environmental impact assessments;
(b) Participate in environment and development activities within the
local community and promote joint action on potential problems of common concern;
(c) Play an active role in the sustainable development activities of
international and regional organizations, particularly within the United Nations
system.
(c) Provide adequate training
29.12 Workers and their representatives should have access to adequate training
to augment environmental awareness, ensure their safety and health, and improve
their economic and social welfare. Such training should ensure that the
necessary skills are available to promote sustainable livelihoods and improve the
working environment. Trade unions, employers, Governments and international
agencies should cooperate in assessing training needs within their respective
spheres of activity. Workers and their representatives should be involved in the
design and implementation of worker training programmes conducted by employers
and Governments.
Means of implementation
[ (a) Financial and cost evaluation
29.13 Given the need to catalyse and support expanded activities in developing
countries in support of freedom of association, expanded trade union
participation, improvements in the working environment, and increased environment
and development training for workers, approximately $300/million per year in
international financing (at $3 million per country) will be required as an
initial step. For the ILO to play an extended role in supporting these
activities, additional resources of approximately $4.0/million per year will be
required.
29.14 It should be emphasized that these "costs" would in all likelihood lead
to even more significant financial benefits.]
[ (b) Capacity-building
29.15 Particular attention should be given to strengthening the capacity of
each of the tripartite social partners (Governments, and employers' and workers'
organizations) to facilitate greater collaboration towards sustainable
development.] *
Chapter 30.
Strengthening the Role of Business and Industry
INTRODUCTION
30.1 Business and industry, including transnational corporations, play a
crucial role in the social and economic development of a country. A stable
policy regime enables and encourages business and industry to operate responsibly
and efficiently and to implement longer-term policies. Increasing prosperity,
a major goal of the development process, is contributed primarily by the
activities of business and industry. Business enterprises, large and small,
formal and informal, provide major trading, employment and livelihood
opportunities. Business opportunities available to women are contributing
towards their professional development, strengthening their economic role and
transforming social systems. Business and industry, including transnational
corporations, and their representative organizations, should be full participants
in the implementation and evaluation of activities related to Agenda 21.
30.2 Through more efficient production processes, preventive strategies,
cleaner production technologies and procedures throughout the product life cycle,
hence minimizing or avoiding wastes, the policies and operations of business and
industry, including transnational corporations, can play a major role in reducing
impacts on resource use and the environment. Technological innovations,
development, applications, transfer and the more comprehensive aspects of
partnership and cooperation are to a very large extent within the province of
business and industry.
30.3 Business and industry, including transnational corporations, should
recognize environmental management as among the highest corporate priorities and
as a key determinant to sustainable development. Some enlightened leaders of
enterprises are already implementing "responsible care" and product stewardship
policies and programmes, fostering openness and dialogue with employees and the
public and carrying out environmental audits and assessments of compliance.
These leaders in business and industry, including transnational corporations, are
increasingly taking voluntary initiatives, promoting and implementing
self-regulations and greater responsibilities in ensuring their activities have
minimal impacts on human health and the environment. The regulatory regimes
introduced in many countries, the growing consciousness of consumers and the
general public and enlightened leaders of business and industry, including
transnational corporations, have all contributed to this. A positive
contribution of business and industry, including transnational corporations, to
sustainable development can increasingly be achieved by using economic
instruments such as free market mechanisms in which the prices of goods and
services should increasingly reflect the environmental costs of their input,
production, use, recycling and disposal subject to country-specific conditions.
30.4 Improving production systems through technologies and processes that
utilize resources more efficiently and at the same time produce less wastes
achieving more with less are important pathways towards sustainability for
business and industry. Similarly, facilitating and encouraging inventiveness,
competitiveness and voluntary initiatives are necessary for stimulating more
varied, efficient and effective options. To address these major requirements and
strengthen further the role of business and industry, including transnational
corporations, the following two programmes are proposed.
PROGRAMME AREAS
A. Promoting Cleaner Production
Basis for action
30.5 There is increasing recognition that production, technology and
management that inefficiently use resources, form residues that are not reused,
discharge wastes that have adverse impacts on human health and the environment
and manufacture products that when used have further impacts and are difficult
to recycle, need to be replaced with technologies, good engineering and
management practices and know-how that would minimize waste throughout the
product life cycle. The concept of cleaner production implies striving for
optimal efficiencies at every stage of the product life cycle. A result would
be the improvement of the overall competitiveness of the enterprise. The need
for a transition towards cleaner production policies was recognized at the
UNIDO-organized Ministerial-level Conference on Ecologically Sustainable
Development, held at Copenhagen in October/1991.
Objectives
30.6 Governments, business and industry, including transnational corporations,
should aim to increase the efficiency of resource utilization, including
increasing the reuse and recycling of residues, and to reduce the quantity of
waste discharge per unit of economic output.
Activities
30.7 Governments, business and industry, including transnational corporations,
should strengthen partnerships to implement the principles and criteria for
sustainable development.
30.8 Governments should identify and implement an appropriate mix of economic
instruments and normative measures such as laws, legislations and standards, in
consultation with business and industry, including transnational corporations,
that will promote the use of cleaner production, with special consideration for
small and medium-sized enterprises. Voluntary private initiatives should also
be encouraged.
30.9 Governments, business and industry, including transnational corporations,
academia and international organizations, should work towards the development and
implementation of concepts and methodologies for the internalization of
environmental costs into accounting and pricing mechanisms.
30.10 Business and industry, including transnational corporations, should be
encouraged:
(a) To report annually on their environmental records, as well as on
their use of energy and natural resources;
(b) To adopt and report on the implementation of codes of conduct
promoting best environmental practice, such as the International Chamber of
Commerce's Business Charter on Sustainable Development and the chemical
industry's responsible care initiative.
30.11 Governments should promote technological and know-how cooperation,
encompassing identification, assessment, research and development, management
marketing and application of cleaner production between enterprises.
30.12 Industry should incorporate cleaner production policies in its operations
and investments, taking also into account its influence on suppliers and
consumers.
30.13 Industry and business associations ,uld cooperate with workers and
trade unions to continuously improve the knowledge and skills for implementing
sustainable development operations.
30.14 Industry and business associations should encourage individual companies
to undertake programmes for improved environmental awareness and responsibility
at all levels to make these enterprises dedicated to the task of improving
environmental performance based on internationally accepted management practices.
30.15 International organizations should increase education, training and
awareness activities relating to cleaner production, in collaboration with
industry, academia and relevant national and local authorities.
30.16 International and non-governmental organizations, including trade and
scientific associations, should strengthen cleaner production information
dissemination by expanding existing databases such as UNEP's ICPIC, UNIDO's
INTIB, and the ICC/IEB, as well as forge networking of national and international
information systems.
Means of implementation
[Financial and cost evaluation
30.17 Although the investments for cleaner production will yield benefits for
the enterprise, the costs involved could not be estimated [because of the
evolving goal towards cleaner and cleaner production with improvements in
technology and experience; the wide differences in operations among business and
industry; and the range of options that could be considered for promoting cleaner
production].
30.18 The implementation of cleaner production policies helps an enterprise to
use resources more efficiently and discharge less wastes needing to be treated,
hence accruing benefits for the enterprise [, thus it is expected that the major
portion of the costs would be borne by the enterprise. The use of appropriate
regulatory measures and economic instruments by Governments will help facilitate
the speedier transition towards cleaner production] .]**
B. Promoting Responsible Entrepreneurship
Basis for action
30.19 Entrepreneurship is one of the most important driving forces for
innovations, increasing market efficiencies and responding to challenges and
opportunities. Small and medium-sized entrepreneurs, in particular, play a very
important role in the social and economic development of a country. Often, they
are the major means for rural development, increasing off-farm employment and
providing the transitional means for improving the livelihoods of women.
Responsible entrepreneurship can play a major role in improving the efficiency
of resource use, reducing risks and hazards, minimizing wastes and safeguarding
environmental qualities.
Objectives
30.20 The following objectives are proposed:
(a) To encourage the concept of stewardship in the management and
utilization of natural resources by entrepreneurs;
(b) To increase the number of entrepreneurs engaged in enterprises that
subscribe to and implement sustainable development policies.
Activities
30.21 Governments should encourage the establishment: and operations of
sustainably managed enterprises. The mix would include regulatory measures,
economic incentives and streamlining of administrative procedures to assure
maximum efficiency in dealing with applications for approval, in order to
facilitate investment decisions, advice and assistance with information,
infrastructural support and stewardship responsibilities.
30.22 Governments should encourage, in cooperation with the private sector, the
establishment of venture capital funds for sustainable development projects and
programmes.
30.23 In collaboration with business, industry, academia and international
organizations, Governments should support training in the environmental aspects
of enterprise management. Attention should also be directed towards
apprenticeship schemes for youth.
30.24 Business and industry, including transnational corporations, should be
encouraged to establish world-wide corporate policies on sustainable development,
arrange for environmentally sound technologies to be available to affiliates
owned substantially by their parent company in developing countries without extra
external charges, encourage overseas affiliates to modify procedures in order to
reflect local ecological conditions and share experiences with local authorities,
national governments and international organizations.
30.25 Large business and industry including transnational corporations should
consider establishing partnership schemes with small and medium-sized enterprises
to help facilitate the exchange of experience in managerial skills, market
development and technological know-how, where appropriate, with the assistance
of international organizations.
30.26 Business and industry should establish national councils for sustainable
development and help promote entrepreneurship in the formal and informal sectors.
The inclusion of women entrepreneurs should be facilitated.
30.27 Business and industry, including transnational corporations, should
increase research and development of environmentally sound technologies and
environmental management systems, in collaboration with academia and the
scientific/engineering establishments, drawing upon indigenous knowledge, where
appropriate.
30.28 Business and industry, including transnational corporations, should
ensure responsible and ethical management of products and processes from the
point of view of health, safety and environmental aspects. Towards this end,
business and industry should increase self-regulation, guided by appropriate
codes, charters and initiatives integrated into all elements of business planning
and decision-making, and fostering openness and dialogue with employees and the
public.
30.29 Multilateral and bilateral financial aid institutions should continue to
encourage and support small- and medium-scale entrepreneurs engaged in
sustainable development activities.
30.30 United Nations organizations and agencies should improve mechanisms for
business and industry inputs, policy and strategy formulation processes, to
ensure that environmental aspects are strengthened in foreign investment.
30.31 International organizations should increase support for research and
development on improving the technological and managerial requirements for
sustainable development, in particular for small and medium-sized enterprises in
developing countries.
Means of implementation
[Financing and cost evaluation
Alternative A:
30.32 It is not possible to estimate the costs that might be incurred at the
micro-economic level in global economies from implementing the various measures
outlined in this programme. However, some changes may simply amount to changes
in the orientation of existing activities and additional costs for Governments
and international organizations may not be significant. These costs are also
included in other areas.
Alternative B:
30.32 The activities included under this programme area are mostly changes in
the orientation of existing activities and additional costs are not expected to
be significant. The cost of activities by Governments and international
organizations are already included in other programme areas. ] **
Chapter 31.
The Scientific and Technological Community
INTRODUCTION
31.1 This chapter focuses on how to enable the scientific and technological
community, which includes, among others, engineers, architects, industrial
designers, urban planners and other professionals and policy makers, to make a
more open and effective contribution to the decision-making processes concerning
environment and development. It is important that the role of science and
technology in human affairs be more widely known and better understood, both by
decision makers who help determine public policy and by the general public. The
cooperative relationship existing among the scientific and technological
community and the general public should be extended and deepened into a full
partnership. Improved communication and cooperation between the scientific and
technological community and decision makers will facilitate greater use of
scientific and technical information and knowledge in policies and programme
implementation. Decision makers should create more favourable conditions for
improving training and independent research in sustainable development. Existing
multidisciplinary approaches will have to be strengthened and more
interdisciplinary studies developed between the scientific and technological
community and policy makers, and with the general public to provide leadership
and practical know-how to the concept of sustainable development. The public
should be assisted in communicating their sentiments to the scientific and
technological community concerning how science and technology might be better
managed to affect their lives in a beneficial way. By the same token, the
independence of the scientific and technological community to investigate and
publish without restriction and to exchange their findings freely must be
assured. The adoption and implementation of ethical principles and codes of
practice for the scientific and technological community that are internationally
accepted could enhance professionalism and may improve and hasten recognition of
the value of its contributions to environment and development, recognizing the
continuing evolution and uncertainty of scientific knowledge.
PROGRAMME AREAS
A.
Improving Communication and Cooperation Among the Scientific
and Technological Community, Decision-Makers and the Public
Basis for action
31.2 The scientific and technological community and policy makers should
increase their interaction in order to implement strategies for sustainable
development on the basis of the best available knowledge. This implies that
decision makers should provide the necessary framework for rigorous research and
for full and open communication of the findings of the scientific and
technological community, and develop with it ways in which research results and
the concerns stemming from the findings can be communicated to decision-making
bodies so as to better link scientific and technical knowledge with strategic
policy and programme formulation. At the same time, this dialogue would assist
the scientific and technological community in developing priorities for research
and proposing actions for constructive solutions.
Objectives
31.3
The following objectives are proposed:
(a) To extend and open up the decision-making process and broaden the
range of developmental and environmental issues where cooperation at all levels
between the scientific and technological community and decision makers can take
place;
(b) To improve the exchange of knowledge and concerns between the
scientific and technological community and the general public, to enable policies
and programmes to be better formulated, understood and supported.
Activities
31.4
Governments should undertake the following activities:
(a) To review how national scientific and technological activities could
be more responsive to sustainable development needs as part of an overall effort
to strengthen national research and development systems, including through
strengthening and widening the membership of national scientific and
technological advisory councils, organizations and committees to assure that:
(i) The full range of national needs for scientific and technological
programmes are communicated to Governments and the public;
(ii) The various strands of public opinion are represented;
(b) To promote regional cooperative mechanisms to address regional needs
for sustainable development. Such regional cooperative mechanisms could be
facilitated through public/private partnerships and provide support to
Governments, industry, non-governmental educational institutions and other
domestic and international organizations, and by strengthening global
professional networks;
(c) To improve and expand scientific and technical inputs through
appropriate mechanisms to intergovernmental consultative, cooperative and
negotiating processes towards international and regional agreements;
(d) To strengthen science and technology advice to the highest levels of
the United Nations, and other international institutions, in order to ensure the
inclusion of science and technology know-how in sustainable development policies
and strategies;
(e) To improve and strengthen programmes for disseminating research
results of universities and research institutions. This requires recognition of
and greater support to the scientists, technologists and teachers who are engaged
in communicating and interpreting scientific and technological information to
policy makers, professionals in other fields and the general public. Such
support should focus on the transfer of skills and the transfer and adaptation
of planning techniques. This requires full and open sharing of data and
information among scientists and decision makers. The publication of national
scientific research reports and technical reports that are understandable and
relevant to local sustainable development needs would also improve the interface
between science and decision-making, as well as the implementation of scientific
results;
(f) To improve links between the official independent research sector and
industry SO that research may become an important element of industrial strategy;
(g) To promote and strengthen the role of women as full partners in the
science and technology disciplines;
(h) To develop and implement information technologies to enhance the
dissemination of information for sustainable development.
Means of implementation
[(a)
Financing and cost evaluation
31.5 Between $10 million and $15 million of international financing per year
will be needed.
[ (b)
Capacity-building
31.6
Intergovernmental panels on development and environmental issues should
be organized, with emphasis on their scientific and technical aspects, and
studies of responsiveness and adaptability in subsequent programmes of action[,
drawing upon the experience of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.]
B. Promoting Codes of Practice and Guidelines Related to
Science and Technology
Basis for action
31.7 Scientists and technologists have a special set of responsibilities which
belong to them both as inheritors of a tradition and as professionals and members
of disciplines devoted to the search for knowledge and to the need to protect the
biosphere in the context of sustainable development.
31.8 Increased ethical awareness in environmental and developmental
decision-making should help to place appropriate priorities for the maintenance
and enhancement of life-support systems for their own sake, and in so doing
ensure that the functioning of viable natural processes is properly valued by
present and future societies. Therefore, a strengthening of the codes of
practice and guidelines for the scientific and technological community would
increase environmental awareness and contribute to sustainable development. It
would build up the level of esteem and regard for the scientific and
technological community and facilitate the "accountability" of science and
technology.
Objectives
31.9 The objective should be to develop, improve and promote international
acceptance of codes of practice and guidelines relating to science and technology
in which the integrity of life-support systems is comprehensively accounted for
and where the important role of science and technology in reconciling the needs
of environment and development is accepted. To be effective in the
decision-making process, such principles, codes of practice and guidelines must
not only be agreed upon by the scientific and technological community, but also
recognized by the society as a whole.
Activities
31.10 The following activities could be undertaken:
(a) To strengthen national and international cooperation, including the
non-governmental sector, to develop codes of practice and guidelines regarding
environmentally sound and sustainable development, taking into account the Rio
Declaration and existing codes of practice and guidelines;
(b) To strengthen and establish national advisory groups on environmental
and developmental ethics, in order to develop a common value framework between
the scientific and technological community and society as a whole, and promote
continuous dialogue;
(c) To extend education and training in developmental and environmental
ethical issues to integrate such objectives into education curricula and research
priorities;
(d) To review and amend relevant national and international environment
and development legal instruments to ensure appropriate codes of practice and
guidelines are incorporated into such regulatory machinery.
Means of implementation
[(a)
Financing and cost evaluation
31.11 About $5 million of international financing per year over the period
1993-2000 will be needed. ] **
[ (b)
Capacity-building
[31.12 International agreements should be negotiated and reached on appropriate
ethical principles, codes of practice and guidelines for the scientific and
technological community in the pursuit of its research activities and
implementation of programmes aimed at sustainable development. UNESCO might take
the lead in implementing the above-mentioned activities, with the collaboration
of other United Nations agencies and intergovernmental and non-governmental
organizations.] ] *
Chapter 32
Strengthening the Role of Farmers
INTRODUCTION
32.1 All references in this chapter to "farmers" and "farming" include all
rural people who derive their livelihood from activities such as farming, fishing
and forest harvesting.
PROGRAMME AREA
Basis for action
32.2 Agriculture occupies one third of the land surface of the Earth, and is
the central activity for much of the world's population. Rural activities take
place in close contact with nature, adding value to it by producing renewable
resources, while at the same time, becoming vulnerable to overexploitation and
improper management.
32.3 The rural household, indigenous people and their communities, and the
family farmer, a substantial number of whom are women, have been the stewards of
much of the Earth's resources. Farmers must conserve their physical environment
as they depend on it for their sustenance. Over the past 20 years there has been
impressive increase in aggregate agricultural production. Yet, in some regions,
this increase has been outstripped by population growth or international debt or
falling commodity prices. Further, the natural resources that sustain farming
activity need proper care, and there is a growing concern about the
sustainability of agricultural production systems.
32.4 A farmer-centred approach is the key to the attainment of sustainability
in both developed and developing countries and many of the programme areas in
Agenda 21 address this objective. A significant number of the rural population
in developing countries depend primarily upon small-scale, subsistence-oriented
agriculture based on family labour. However, they have limited access to
resources, technology, alternative livelihood and means of production. As a
result, they are engaged in the overexploitation of natural resources, including
marginal lands.
32.5 The sustainable development of people in marginal and fragile ecosystems
is also addressed in Agenda 21. The key to the successful implementation of
these programmes lies in the motivation and attitudes of individual farmers and
government policies that would provide incentives to farmers to manage their
natural resources efficiently and in a sustainable way. Farmers, particularly
women, face a high degree of economic, legal and institutional uncertainties when
investing in their land and other resources. The decentralization of
decision-making towards local and community organizations is the key in changing
people's behaviour and implementing sustainable farming strategies. This
programme area deals with activities which can contribute to this end.
Objectives
32.6 The following objectives are proposed:
(a) To encourage a decentralized decision-making process through the
creation and strengthening of local and village organizations that would delegate
power and responsibility to primary users of natural resources;
(b) To support and enhance the legal capacity of women and vulnerable
groups with regard to access, use and tenure of land;
(c) To promote and encourage sustainable farming practices and
technologies;
(d) To introduce or strengthen policies that would encourage
self-sufficiency in low-input and low-energy technologies, including indigenous
practices, and pricing mechanisms that internalize environmental costs;
(e) To develop a policy framework that provides incentives and motivation
among farmers for sustainable and efficient farming practices;
(f) To enhance the participation of farmers, men and women, in the design
and implementation of policies directed towards these ends, through their
representative organizations.
Activities
(a) Management-related activities
32.7
National Governments should:
(a) Ensure the implementation of the programmes on sustainable
livelihoods, agriculture and rural development, managing fragile ecosystems,
water use in agriculture, and integrated management of natural resources;
(b) Promote pricing mechanisms, trade policies, fiscal incentives and
other policy instruments that positively affect individual farmer's decisions
about an efficient and sustainable use of natural resources, and take full
account of the impact of these decisions on household food security, farm
incomes, employment and the environment;
(c) Involve farmers, and their representative organizations, in the
formulation of policy;
(d) Protect, recognize and formalize women's access to tenure and use of
land, as well as rights to land, access to credit, technology, inputs and
training;
(e) Support the formation of farmers' organizations by providing adequate
legal and social conditions.
32.8
Support for farmers' organizations could be arranged as follows:
(a) National and international research centres should cooperate with
farmers' organizations in developing location-specific environment-friendly
farming techniques;
(b) National Governments, multilateral and bilateral development agencies
and non-governmental organizations should collaborate with farmers' organizations
in forumlating agricultural development projects to specific agro-ecological
zones.
(b) Data and information
32.9
Governments and farmers' organizations should:
(a) Initiate mechanisms to document, synthesize and disseminate local
knowledge, practices and project experiences so that they will make use of the
lessons of the past when formulating and implementing policies affecting farming,
forest and fishing population;
(b) Establish networks for the exchange of experiences with regard to
farming that help to conserve land, water and forest resources, minimize the use
of chemicals and reduce or reutilize farm wastes;
(c) Develop pilot projects and extension services that would seek to
build on the needs and knowledge base of women farmers.
(c) International and regional cooperation
32.10 FAO, IFAD, WFP, the World Bank, the regional development banks and other
international organizations involved in rural development should involve farmers
and their representatives in their deliberations, as appropriate.
32.11 Representative organizations of farmers should establish programmes for
the development and support of farmers' organizations, particularly in developing
countries.
Means of implementation
[(a)
Financing and cost evaluation
32.12 The financing needed for this programme area is estimated in sustainable
agricultural and rural development, particularly in the programme area entitled
"Ensuring people's participation and promoting human resource development". The
cost shown under the chapters on sustainable mountain development, combating
desertification and drought, and combating poverty and meeting basic needs are
also relevant for this programme area.]
[(b)
Scientific and technological means
32.13 National Governments and appropriate international organizations[, in
collaboration with national research organizations] and non-governmental
organizations, should:
(a) Develop farming technologies that enhance [sustainable] crop yields
and [profitability] intensity or [crop intensity] , maintain land quality,
recycle nutrients, conserve water and energy and control pests [and weeds];
(b) Conduct studies of high-input and low-input agriculture to compare
their productivity and sustainability. The research should be conducted under
various environmental and sociological settings;
(c) Support research on mechanization that would optimize human labour
and animal power and hand-held and animal-drawn equipment that can be easily
operated and maintained. The development of farm technologies should take into
account farmers' available resources and the role of animals to farming
households and the ecology.]
[(c)
Human resource development
32.14 National Governments, with the support of multilateral and bilateral
development agencies and scientific organizations, should develop curricula for
agricultural colleges and training institutions that would integrate ecology into
agricultural science. Interdisciplinary programmes in agricultural ecology are
essential to the training of a new generation of agricultural scientists and
field-level extension agents.]
[(d)
Capacity-building
32.15 National Governments should:
(a) Create the institutional and legal mechanisms to give effective land
tenure to farmers [who demonstrate they are conserving and utilizing resources
properly] or farmers [with a view to] conserving and utilizing resources properly
or [to forest harvesting and fishing rights to those who are working towards
sustainable management of resources]. The absence of legislation indicating land
rights has been an obstacle in taking action against land degradation in many
farming communities in developing countries;
Alternate [(b) Strengthen rural institutions that would enhance sustainability
through locally managed credit systems and technical assistance, small facilties
for producing inputs, appropriate equipment and small-scale processing units, and
marketing and distribution systems;]
or
(b) Strengthen farmer institutions that would enhance locally-managed
credit systems, small facilities for producing agricultural inputs, [small-scale
processing units] and agricultural equipment, and marketing [and distribution)
systems;
(c) Establish mechanisms to increase [women and indigenous groups'] or
[farmers'] access to agricultural training, [credit] and use of improved
[appropriate] or [farming] technology for ensuring food security.]*
Chapter 34
" [Environmentally [safe and] sound technology: Transfer,
cooperation and capacity building]
or
[Transfer of environmentally [safe and] sound technology; requisite
cooperation and capacity building thereunder]
or
[Cooperation in and related to the access to and the transfer of
environmentally [safe and] sound technology]
or
[Cooperation in and related to the transfer of environmentally
[safe and] sound technology]'
INTRODUCTION
34.1 Environmentally [safe and] sound technologies protect the environment, are
less polluting, less [energy and] resource intensive, use [renewable] [all]
resources in a more sustainable manner, recycle more of their wastes and
products, and handle residual wastes in a more acceptable manner than the
technologies for which they were substitutes.
34.2 Environmentally [safe and] sound technologies in the context of pollution
are "process and product technologies" that generate low or no waste, for the
prevention of pollution. They also cover "end of the pipe" technologies for
treatment of pollution after it has been generated.
34.3 Environmentally [safe and] sound technologies are not just individual
technologies, but total systems which include know-how, procedures, goods and
services, and equipment as well as organizational and managerial procedures.
This implies that when discussing transfer of technologies, the human resource
development and local capacity building aspects of technology choices, including
gender-relevant aspects, should also be addressed. Environmentally [safe and]
sound technologies should be compatible with nationally determined socio-
economic, cultural, and environmental priorities.
34.4 There is a need for favourable access to and transfer of environmentally
[safe and] sound technologies, in particular to developing countries, through
supportive measures that promote technology cooperation and that should enable
transfer of necessary technological know-how as well as building up of economic,
technical, and managerial capabilities for the efficient use and further
development of transferred technology. Technology cooperation involves joint
efforts by enterprises and Governments, both suppliers of technology and its
recipients. Therefore, such cooperation entails an iterative process involving
Government, the private sector, and research and development facilities to ensure
the best possible results from transfer of technology. Successful long-term
partnerships in technology cooperation necessarily require continuing systematic
training and capacity building at all levels over an extended period of time.
34.5 The activities proposed in this chapter aim at improving conditions and
processes on information, access to and transfer of technology (including the
state-of-the-art technology and related know-how), in particular to developing
countries, as well as on capacity building and cooperative arrangements and
partnerships in the field of technology, in order to promote sustainable
1
development. New and efficient technologies will be essential to increase the
capabilities, in particular of developing countries, to achieve sustainable
development, sustain the world's economy, protect the environment, and alleviate
poverty and human suffering. Inherent in these activities is the need to address
the improvement of technology currently used and its replacement, when
appropriate, with more accessible and more environmentally [safe and] sound
technology.
Basis for action
34.6 This chapter of Agenda 21 is without prejudice to specific commitments and
arrangements on transfer of technology to be adopted in specific international
instruments.
34.7 The availability of scientific and technological information and access and
transfer of environmentally [safe and] sound technology are essential
requirements for sustainable development. Providing adequate information on the
environmental aspects of present technologies consists of two interrelated
components: upgrading information on present and state-of-the-art technologies,
including their environmental risks, and improving access to environmentally
[safe and] sound technologies.
34.8 The primary goal of improved access to technology information is to enable
informed choices, leading to access to and transfer of such technologies and the
strengthening of countries' own technological capabilities.
34.9 A large body of useful technological knowledge lies in the public domain.
There is a need for the access of developing countries to such technologies as
are not covered by patents or lie in the public domain. Developing countries
would also need to have access to the know-how and expertise required for the
effective utilization of the aforesaid technologies. Consideration must be given
to the role of patent protection and intellectual property rights along with
examination of their impact on the access to and transfer of environmentally
[safe and] sound technology in particular to developing countries as well as
efficiently further exploring the concept of assured access for developing
countries to environmentally [safe and] sound technology in its relation to
proprietary rights with a view to developing effective responses to the needs of
developing countries in this area.
34.10 Proprietary technology is available through commercial channels, and
international business is an important vehicle for technology transfer. Tapping
this pool of knowledge and recombining it with local innovations to generate
alternative technologies should be pursued. At the same time, [assured] access
to the environmentally [safe and] sound technologies, including state-of-the-art
technologies, in particular by developing countries, should be [ensured,]
promoted, facilitated and financed as appropriate, while providing fair
incentives to innovators that promote research and development of new
environmentally [safe and] sound technologies.
34.11 Recipient countries require technology and strengthened support to help
further develop their scientific, technological, professional and related
capacities, taking into account existing technologies and capacities. This
support would enable in particular developing countries to make more rational
technology choices. These countries could then better assess environmentally
[safe and] sound technologies prior to their transfer and properly apply and
manage them, as well as improve upon already present technologies and adapt them
to suit their specific development needs and priorities.
34.12 A critical mass of research and development capacity is crucial to the
effective dissemination and use of environmentally [safe and] sound technologies
and their generation locally. Education and training programmes should reflect
2
the needs of specific goal-oriented research activities and should work to
produce specialists literate in environmentally [safe and] sound technology and
with an interdisciplinary outlook. Achieving this critical mass involves
building the capabilities of craftspersons, technicians and middle-level
managers, scientists, engineers and educators, as well as developing their
corresponding social or managerial support systems. Transferring environmentally
[safe and) sound technologies also involves innovatively adapting and
incorporating them into the local or national culture.
Objectives
34.13 To help to ensure the access in particular of developing countries to
scientific and technological information, including information on state-of-the-
art technologies.
34.14 [To promote, facilitate, and finance as appropriate, the access to and the
transfer of environmentally [safe and] sound technologies and corresponding know-
how, in particular to developing countries, on favourable terms, including on
concessional and preferential terms [,] as mutually agreed, taking into account
the need to protect intellectual property rights as well as the special needs of
developing countries for the implementation of Agenda 21.]
34.15 To facilitate the maintenance and promotion of environmentally [safe and]
sound indigenous technologies that may have been neglected or displaced, in
particular in developing countries, paying particular attention to their priority
needs and taking into account the complementary roles of men and women.
34.16 To support endogenous capacity building in particular in developing
countries SO they can assess, adopt, manage and apply environmentally [safe and)
sound technologies. This could be achieved through inter alia:
(a) Human resource development;
(b) Strengthening of institutional capacities for research and
development and programme implementation;
(c) Integrated sector assessments of technology needs, in accordance
with countries' plans, objectives and priorities as foreseen in the
implementation of Agenda 21 at the national level.
34.17 To promote long-term technological partnerships between holders of
environmentally [safe and] sound technologies and potential users.
Activities
(a) Develop international information networks which link national,
subregional, regional and international systems
34.18 Develop existing national, subregional, regional and international
information systems, and network them through regional clearing-houses covering
broad-based sectors of the economy such as agriculture, industry and energy. The
network might, inter alia, include national, subregional and regional patent
offices that are equipped to produce reports on state-of-the-art technology. The
clearing-house networks would disseminate information on available technologies,
their sources, their environmental risks, and the broad terms under which they
may be acquired. They would operate on an information-demand basis and focus on
the information needs of the end-users. They would take into account the positive
roles and contributions of international, regional and subregional organizations,
business communities, trade associations, non-Governmental organizations,
national Governments, and newly established or strengthened national networks.
3
34.19 The international and regional clearing-houses would take the initiative,
where necessary, in helping users to identify their needs and in disseminating
information that meets those needs, including the use of existing news, public
information, and communication systems. The disseminated information would
highlight and detail concrete cases where environmentally [safe and] sound
technologies were successfully developed and implemented. In order to be
effective, the clearing-houses need to provide not only information, but also
referrals to other services, including sources of advice, training, technologies
and technology assessment. The clearing-houses would thus facilitate the
establishment of joint ventures and partnerships of various kinds.
34.20 An inventory of existing and international or regional clearing-houses or
information exchange systems should be undertaken by the relevant United Nations
bodies. The existing structure should be strengthened and improved when
necessary. Additional information systems should be developed, if necessary, in
order to fill identified gaps in this international network.
(b)
Support and promote access to and transfer of technology
34.21 Governments and international organizations should promote, and
encourage the private sector to promote, effective modalities for the access
and transfer in particular to developing countries of environmentally [safe
and] sound technologies by activities including the following:
(a) Formulation of policies and programmes for the effective transfer
of environmentally [safe and] sound technologies that are publicly owned or in
the public domain;
(b) Creation of favourable conditions to encourage the private as well
as public sector to innovate, market and use environmentally [safe and] sound
technologies;
(c) Examination by Governments and, where appropriate, by relevant
organizations of existing policies, including subsidies and tax policies, and
regulations to determine whether they encourage or impede the access to,
transfer of and introduction of environmentally [safe and] sound technologies;
(d) Addressing, in a framework which fully integrates environment and
development, barriers to the transfer of privately owned environmentally [safe
and] sound technologies and adoption of appropriate general measures to reduce
such barriers while creating specific incentives, fiscal or otherwise, for the
transfer of such technologies;
(e) In the case of privately owned technologies the following measures
could be adopted, in particular to developing countries:
(i)
Creation and enhancement by developed countries, as well as other
countries which might be in a position to do so, of appropriate
incentives, fiscal or otherwise, to stimulate the transfer of
environmentally [safe and] sound technology by companies, in
particular to developing countries, as integral to sustainable
development;
(ii) Enhance the access to and transfer of patent-protected
environmentally [safe and] sound technologies, in particular to
developing countries;
(iii)
Purchase patents and licenses on commercial terms for their
transfer to developing countries on non-commercial terms as part
of development cooperation for sustainable development, taking
into account the need to protect intellectual property rights;
4
(iv)
[Compulsory acquisition with the provision of equitable and
adequate compensation, in accordance with international
conventions adhered to by States;]
(v)
[Provision of financial resources to acquire environmentally [safe
and] sound technologies in order to enable in particular
developing countries to implement measures to promote sustainable
development that would entail a special or abnormal burden to
them;]
(f)
Develop mechanisms for the access to and transfer of
environmentally [safe and] sound technologies, in particular to developing
countries [including in negotiating an International Code of Conduct on
Transfer of Technology].
(c)
Improve capacity to develop and manage environmentally [safe and] sound
technologies
34.22 Establish and/or strengthen frameworks at subregional, regional and
international levels for the development, transfer and application of
environmentally [safe and] sound technologies and corresponding technical
know-how with a special focus on developing countries' needs, by adding such
functions to already existing bodies. Such frameworks would facilitate
initiatives from both developing and developed countries to stimulate the
research, development and transfer of environmentally [safe and] sound
technologies, often through partnerships within and among countries and
between the scientific and technological community, industry and Governments.
34.23 National capacities to assess, develop, manage and apply new
technologies should be developed. This will require strengthening existing
institutions, training of personnel at all levels, and education of the end-
user of the technology.
(d)
Establish collaborative network of research centres
34.24 Establish a collaborative network of national, subregional, regional and
international research centres on environmentally [safe and] sound technology
to enhance the access to and development, management and transfer of
environmentally [safe and] sound technologies, including transfer and
cooperation among developing countries and between developed and developing
countries, primarily based on existing subregional or regional research,
development and demonstration centres which are linked with the national
institutions, in close cooperation with the private sector.
(e)
Support programmes of cooperation and assistance
34.25 Support programmes of cooperation and assistance, including those
provided by United Nations agencies, international organizations, and other
appropriate public and private organizations, in particular to developing
countries, in the areas of research and development, technological and human
resources capacity building in the fields of training, maintenance, national
technology needs assessments, environmental impact assessments, and
sustainable development planning.
34.26 Support national, subregional, regional, multilateral and bilateral
programmes of scientific research, dissemination of information and technology
development among developing countries, including through the involvement of
both public and private enterprises and research facilities, as well as
funding for technical cooperation among developing countries' programmes in
this area. This should include developing links among these facilities to
maximize their efficiency in understanding, disseminating and implementing
technologies for sustainable development.
5
34.27 The development of global, regional and subregional programmes should
include identification and evaluation of regional, subregional and national
need-based priorities. Plans and studies supporting these programmes should
provide the basis for potential financing by multilateral development banks,
bilateral organizations, private sector interests and non-governmental
organizations.
34.28 Sponsor visits and facilitate, on a voluntary basis, the return of
qualified experts from developing countries in the field of environmentally
[safe and] sound technologies who are currently working in developed country
institutions.
(f)
Technology assessment in support of the management of environmentally
[safe and] sound technology
34.29 The international community, in particular United Nations agencies,
international organizations, and other appropriate and private organizations
should help exchange experiences and develop capacity for technology needs
assessment, in particular in developing countries, to enable them to make
choices based on environmentally [safe and] sound technologies.
34.30 Build up technology assessment capacity for the management of
environmentally [safe and] sound technology, including environmental impact
and risk assessment, with due regard to appropriate safeguards on the transfer
of technologies subject to prohibition on environmental or health grounds.
34.31 Strengthen the international network of regional, subregional or
national environmentally [safe and] sound technology assessment centres,
coupled with clearing-houses, to tap the technology assessment sources
mentioned above for the benefit of all nations. These centres could, in
principle, provide advice and training for specific national situations and
promote the building up of national capacity in environmentally [safe and]
sound technology assessment. The possibility of assigning this activity to
already existing regional organizations should be fully explored before
creating entirely new institutions, and funding of this activity through
public-private partnerships should also be explored, as appropriate.
(g)
Collaborative arrangements and partnerships
34.32 Promote long-term collaborative arrangements between enterprises of
developed and developing countries for the development of environmentally
[safe and] sound technologies. Multinational companies, as repositories of
scarce technical skills needed for the protection and enhancement of the
environment, have a special role and interest in promoting cooperation in and
related to technology transfer, as they are important channels for such
transfer, and for building a trained human resource pool and infrastructure.
34.33 Promote joint ventures between suppliers and recipients of technologies,
taking into account developing countries' policy priorities and objectives.
Together with direct foreign investment, these ventures could constitute
important channels of transferring environmentally [safe and] sound
technologies. Through such joint ventures and direct investment, sound
environmental management practices could be transferred and maintained.
Means of implementation
[34.34
The financial resources necessary to implement the international
networks would be derived from a selection of existing funds and those to be
additionally established. The running costs for international information
networks would amount to approximately $ 150-200 million to be borne by the
international community per year.
6
34.35 Given the nature of purchasing of patents and licenses as described in
paragraph 21 (e) (iii) and provision of financial resources to acquire
environmentally [safe and] sound technologies as described in paragraph
21 (e) (v), and the lack of actual experience, there are no solid grounds for
estimating the costs of such activities.
34.36 A very rough estimate of costs to be borne by the international
community for the activities in paragraphs 22 to 28 would be $ 250-300 million
per year.
34.37 A very rough estimate of costs for the activities in paragraphs 29 to 31
would be $ 50-100 million per year.
34.38 The activities in promoting collaborative arrangements and partnerships
in paragraphs 32 to 33 do not involve international financing on a
concessional basis.] **
7
CHAPTER :SCIENCE FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
INTRODUCTION
35.1.
This chapter focuses on the role and the use of the sciences in
supporting the prudent management of the environment and development for the
daily survival and future development of humanity. The programme areas proposed
herein are intended to be over-arching, in order to support the specific
scientific requirements identified in the other Agenda 21 chapters. One role of
the sciences should be to provide information to better enable formulation and
selection of environment and development policies in the decision-making process.
In order to fulfil this requirement, it will be essential to enhance scientific
understanding, improve long-term scientific assessments, strengthen scientific
capacities in all countries and ensure that the sciences are responsive to
emerging needs.
35.2.
Scientists are improving their understanding in areas such as
climatic change, growth in rates of resource consumption, demographic trends, and
environmental degradation. Changes in those and other areas need to be taken
into account in working out long-term strategies for development. A first step
towards improving the scientific basis for these strategies is a better
understanding of land, oceans, atmosphere and their interlocking water, nutrient
and biogeochemical cycles and energy flows which all form part of the earth
system. This is essential if a more accurate estimate of the carrying capacity
of the planet earth and of its resilience under the many stresses placed upon it
by human activities is to be provided. The sciences can provide this
understanding through increased research into the underlying ecological processes
and through the application of modern, effective and efficient tools which are
now available, such as remote-sensing devices, robotic monitoring instruments and
computing and modelling capabilities. The sciences are playing an important role
in linking the fundamental significance of the earth system as life support to
appropriate strategies for development which build on its continued functioning.
The sciences should continue to play an increasing role in providing for
improvement in the efficiency of resource utilization and in finding new
development practices, resources, and alternatives. There is need for the
sciences to constantly reassess and promote less intensive trends in resource
utilization, including less intensive utilization of energy in industry,
agriculture, and transportation. Thus, the sciences are increasingly being
understood as an essential component in the search for feasible pathways towards
sustainable development.
35.3.
Scientific knowledge should be applied to articulate and support the
goals of sustainable development, through scientific assessments of current
conditions and future earth system prospects. Such assessments, based on
existing and emerging innovations within the sciences, should be used in the
decision-making process and in the interactive processes between the sciences and
policy-making. There needs to be an increased output from the sciences in order
to enhance understanding and facilitate interaction between science and society.
An increase in the scientific capacity and capability to achieve these goals will
also be required, particularly in developing countries. Of crucial importance
is the need for scientists in developing countries to participate fully in
international scientific research programmes dealing with the global problems of
environment and development so as to allow all countries to participate on equal
footing in negotiations on global environmental and developmental issues. In the
face of threats of irreversible environmental damage, lack of full scientific
understanding should not be an excuse for postponing actions which are justified
in their own right. The precautionary approach could provide a basis for
policies relating to complex systems that are not yet fully understood and whose
consequences of disturbances cannot yet be predicted.
35.4.
The programme areas, which are in harmony with the conclusions and
1
recommendations of the International Conference on an Agenda of Science for
Environment and Development into the 21st Century (ASCEND 21) are:
(a) Strengthening the scientific basis for sustainable management;
(b) Enhancing scientific understanding;
(c) Improving long-term scientific assessment;
(d) Building up scientific capacity and capability.
PROGRAMME AREAS
A. Strengthening the Scientific Basis for
Sustainable Management
Basis for action
35.5.
Sustainable development requires taking longer-term perspectives,
integrating local and regional effects of global change into the development
process, and using the best scientific and traditional knowledge available. The
development process should be constantly re-evaluated, in light of the findings
of scientific research, to ensure that resource utilization has reduced impacts
on the earth system. Even so, the future is uncertain, and there will be
surprises. Good environmental and developmental management policies must
therefore be scientifically robust, seeking to keep open a range of options to
ensure flexibility of response. The precautionary approach is important. Often,
there is a communication gap among scientists, policy makers, and the public at
large, whose interests are articulated by both governmental and non-governmental
organizations. Better communication is required among scientists, decision
makers, and the general public.
Objectives
35.6.
The primary objective is for each country with the support of
international organizations, as requested, to identify the state of its
scientific knowledge and its research needs and priorities in order to achieve,
as soon as possible, substantial improvements in:
(a) Large-scale widening of the scientific base and strengthening of
scientific and research capacities and capabilities - in particular, those of
developing countries - in areas relevant to environment and development;
(b) Environmental and developmental policy formulation, building upon the
best scientific knowledge and assessments, and taking into account the need to
enhance international cooperation and the relative uncertainties of the various
processes and options involved;
(c) The interaction between the sciences and decision-making, using the
precautionary approach, where appropriate, to change the existing patterns of
production and consumption and to gain time for reducing uncertainty with respect
to the selection of policy options;
(d) The generation and application of knowledge, especially indigenous and
local knowledge, to the capacities of different environments and cultures, to
achieve sustained levels of development, taking into account interrelations at
the national, regional and international levels;
(e) Improving cooperation between scientists by promoting interdisciplinary
research programmes and activities;
2
(f) Participation of people in setting priorities and in decision-making
relating to sustainable development.
Activities
35.7.
Countries, with the assistance of international organizations, where
required, should undertake the following activities:
(a) Prepare an inventory of their natural and social science data holdings
relevant to the promotion of sustainable development;
(b) Identify their research needs and priorities in the context of
international research efforts;
(c) Strengthen and design appropriate institutional mechanisms at the
highest appropriate local, national, subregional and regional levels and within
the United Nations system for developing a stronger scientific basis for the
improvement of environmental and developmental policy formulation consistent with
long-term goals of sustainable development. Current research in this area should
be broadened to include more involvement of the public in establishing long-term
societal goals for formulating the sustainable development scenarios;
(d) Develop, apply and institute the necessary tools for sustainable
development, with regard to:
(i) Quality-of-life indicators covering, for example, health, education,
social welfare, state of the environment, and the economy;
(ii) Economic approaches to environmentally sound development and new and
improved incentive structures for better resource management;
(iii) Long-term environmental policy formulation, risk management and
environmentally sound technology assessment;
(e) Collect, analyse, and integrate data on the linkages between the state
of ecosystems and the health of human communities, in order to improve knowledge
of the cost and benefit of different development policies and strategies in
relation to health and the environment, particularly in developing countries;
(f) Conduct scientific studies of national and regional pathways to
sustainable development, using comparable and complementary methodologies. Such
studies, coordinated by an international science effort, should to a large extent
involve local expertise and be conducted by multidisciplinary teams from regional
networks and/or research centres, as appropriate and according to national
capacities and the available resources;
(g) Improve capabilities for determining scientific research priorities at
the national, regional and global levels to meet the needs of sustainable
development. This is a process which involves scientific judgements regarding
short-term and long-term benefits and possible long-term costs and risks. It
should be adaptive and responsive to perceived needs and be carried out via
transparent, "user-friendly", risk-evaluation methodologies;
(h) Develop methods to link the findings of the established sciences with
the indigençus knowledge of different cultures. The methods should be tested
using pilot studies. They should be developed at the local level and should
concentrate on the links between the traditional knowledge of indigenous groups
and corresponding, current "advanced science", with particular focus on
disseminating and applying the results to environmental protection and
sustainable development.
3
Means of implementation
35.8.
[Financing and cost evaluation: The cost of this programme area is
estimated to be about $40 million per year over the 1993-2000 period, which
includes $15 million in international assistance.]
35.9.
The scientific and technological means include the following:
(a) Supporting new scientific research programmes, including their
socio-economic and human aspects, at the community, national, subregional,
regional and global levels, to complement and encourage synergies between
traditional and conventional scientific knowledge and practices and strengthening
interdisciplinary research related to environmental degradation and
rehabilitation;
(b) Setting up demonstration models of different types (e.g.,
socio-economic, environmental conditions) to study methodologies and formulate
guidelines;
(c) Supporting research by developing relative-risk evaluation methods to
assist policy makers in ranking scientific research priorities.
B. Enhancing Scientific Understanding
Basis for action
35.10.
In order to promote sustainable development, more extensive knowledge
is required of the earth's carrying capacity, including the processes that could
either impair or enhance its ability to support life. The global environment is
changing more rapidly than at any time in recent centuries; as a result,
surprises may be expected, and the next century could see significant
environmental changes. At the same time, the human consumption of energy, water
and non-renewable resources is increasing, on both a total and a per capita
basis, and shortages may ensue in many parts of the world even if environmental
conditions were to remain unchanged. Social processes are subject to multiple
variations across time and space, regions and culture. They both affect and are
influenced by changing environmental conditions. Human factors are key driving
forces in these intricate sets of relationships and exert their influence
directly on global change. Therefore, study of the human dimensions of the
causes and consequences of environmental change and of more sustainable
development paths is essential.
Objectives
35.11. One key objective is to improve and increase the fundamental
understanding of the linkages between human and natural environmental systems and
improve the analytical and predictive tools required to better understand the
environmental impacts of development options by:
(a) Carrying out research programmes in order better to understand the
carrying capacity of the earth as conditioned by its natural systems, such as the
biogeochemical cycles, the atmosphere/hydrosphere/lithosphere/cryosphere system,
the biosphere and biodiversity, the agro-ecosystem and other terrestrial and
aquatic ecosystems;
(b) Developing and applying new analytical and predictive tools in order
to assess more accurately the ways in which the earth's natural systems are being
increasingly influenced by human actions, both deliberate and inadvertent, and
demographic trends, and the impact and consequences of those actions and trends;
4
(c) Integrating physical, economic and social sciences in order better to
understand the impacts of economic and social behaviour on the environment and
of environmental degradation on local and global economies.
Activities
35.12.
The following activities should be undertaken:
(a) Support development of an expanded monitoring network to describe
cycles (for example, global, biogeochemical and hydrological cycles) and test
hypotheses regarding their behaviour. Improve research into the interactions
among the various global cycles and their consequences at national, subregional,
regional and global levels as guides to tolerance and vulnerability;
(b) Support national, subregional, regional and international observation
and research programmes in global atmospheric chemistry and the sources and sinks
of greenhouse gases, and ensure that the results are presented in a publicly
accessible and understandable form;
(c) Support national, subregional, regional and international research
programmes on marine and terrestrial systems, strengthen global terrestrial
databases of their components, expand corresponding systems for monitoring their
changing states and enhance predictive modelling of the earth system and its
subsystems, including modelling of the functioning of these systems assuming
different intensities of human impact. The research programmes should include
the programmes mentioned in other Agenda 21 chapters which support mechanisms for
cooperation and coherence of research programmes on global change;
(d) Encourage coordination of satellite missions, the networks, systems and
procedures for processing and disseminating their data; develop the interface
with the research users of earth observation data and with the United Nations
EARTHWATCH system;
(e) Develop the capacity for predicting the responses of terrestrial,
freshwater, coastal and marine ecosystems and biodiversity to short- and
long-term perturbations of the environment, and develop further restoration
ecology;
(f) Study the role of biodiversity and the loss of species in the
functioning of ecosystems and the global life-support system;
(g) Initiate a global observing system of parameters needed for the
rational management of coastal and mountain zones and significantly expand
freshwater quantity/quality monitoring systems, particularly in developing
countries;
(h) In order to understand the earth as a system, develop earth observation
systems from space which will provide integrated, continuous and long-term
measurements of the interactions of the atmosphere, hydrosphere and lithosphere,
and develop a distribution system for data which will facilitate the utilization
of data obtained through observation;
(i) Develop and apply systems and technology that automatically collect,
record and transmit data and information to data and analysis centres, in order
to monitor marine, terrestrial and atmospheric processes and provide advance
warning of natural disasters;
(j) Enhance the contribution of the engineering sciences to
multidisciplinary research programmes on the earth system - in particular with
regard to increasing emergency preparedness and reducing the negative effects of
major natural disasters;
5
(k) Intensify research to integrate physical, economic and social sciences
to better understand the impacts of economic and social behaviour on the
environment and of environmental degradation on local and global economies:
(i) Develop research on human attitudes and behaviour as driving forces
central to an understanding of the causes and consequences of
environmental change and resource use;
(ii) Promote research on human, economic and social responses to global
change;
(1) Support development of new user-friendly technologies and systems that
facilitate the integration of multidisciplinary, physical, chemical, biological
and social/human processes which, in turn, provide information and knowledge for
decision makers and the general public.
Means of implementation
35.13.
[Financing and cost evaluation: It is estimated that this programme
area, which is primarily related to global environmental issues, will cost about
$1 billion per year over the period 1993-2000, of which about $750 million should
be in international financing, building on ongoing and newly started programmes
and activities.]*
35.14.
The scientific and technological means include the following:
(a) Supporting and using the relevant national research activities of
academia, research institutes and governmental and non-governmental
organizations, and promoting their active participation in regional and global
programmes, particularly in developing countries;
(b) Increasing the use of appropriate enabling systems and technologies,
such as supercomputers, space-based observational technology, earth- and
ocean-based observational technologies, data management and database technologies
and, in particular, developing and expanding the Global Climate Observing System.
C. Improving Long-term Scientific Assessment
Basis for action
35.15. Meeting scientific research needs in the environment/development field
is only the first step in the support that the sciences can provide for the
sustainable development process. The knowledge acquired may then be used to
provide scientific assessments (audits) of the current status and for a range of
possible future conditions. This implies that the biosphere must be maintained
in a healthy state and that losses in biodiversity must be slowed down. Although
many of the long-term environmental changes that are likely to affect people and
the biosphere are global in scale, key changes can often be made at the national
and local levels. At the same time, human activities at the local and regional
levels often contribute to global threats - e.g., stratospheric ozone depletion.
Thus scientific assessments and projections are required at the global, regional
and local levels. Many countries and organizations already prepare reports on
the environment and development which review current conditions and indicate
future trends. Regional and global assesaments could make full use of such
reports but should be broader in scope and include the results of detailed
studies of future conditions for a range of assumptions about possible future
human responses, using the best available models. Such assessments should be
designed to map out manageable development pathways within the environmental and
socio-economic carrying capacity of each region. Full use should be made of
traditional knowledge of the local environment.
6
Objectives
35.16.
The primary objective is to provide assessments of the current status
and trends in major developmental and environmental issues at the national,
subregional, regional and global levels on the basis of the best available
scientific knowledge in order to develop alternative strategies, including
indigenous approaches, for the different scales of time and space required for
long-term policy formulation.
Activities
35.17.
The following activities should be undertaken:
(a) Coordinate existing data-and statistics-gathering systems relevant to
developmental and environmental issues so as to support preparation of long-term
scientific assessments - e.g., data on resource depletion, import/export flows,
energy use, health impacts, demographic trends, etc.; apply the data obtained
through the activities identified in programme area B to environment/development
assessments at the global, regional and local levels; promote the wide
distribution of the assessments in a form that is responsive to public needs and
can be widely understood;
(b) Develop a methodology to carry out national and regional audits and a
five-year global audit on an integrated basis. The standardized audits should
help to refine the pattern and character of development, examining in particular
the capacities of global and regional life-supporting systems to meet the needs
of human and non-human life forms and identifying areas and resources vulnerable
to further degradation. This task would involve the integration of all relevant
sciences at the national, regional, and global levels, and would be organized by
governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, universities and research
institutions, assisted by international governmental and non-governmental
organizations and United Nations bodies, when necessary and as appropriate.
These audits should then be made available to the general public.
Means of implementation
35.18.
[Financing and cost evaluation: The cost of this programme area is
estimated to be about $35 million per year over the period 1993-2000, of which
$18 million will be needed from international sources.)
35.19.
With regard to the existing data requirements under programme area A,
support should be provided for national data collection and warning systems.
This would involve setting up database, information and reporting systems,
including data assessment and information dissemination in each region.
D. Building Up Scientific Capacity and Capability
Basis for action
35.20.
In view of the increasing role the sciences have to play in dealing
with the issues of environment and development, it is necessary to build up
scientific capacity and strengthen such capacity in all countries - particularly
in developing countries - to enable them to participate fully in the generation
and application of the results of scientific research and development concerning
sustainable development. There are many ways to build up scientific and
technological capacity. Some of the most important of them are: education and
training in science and technology; assistance to developing countries to improve
infrastructures for research and development which could enable scientists to
7
work more productively; development of incentives to encourage research and
development; and greater utilization of their results in the productive sectors
of the economy. Such capacity-building would also form the basis for improving
public awareness and understanding of the sciences. Special emphasis must be put
on the need to assist developing countries to strengthen their capacities to
study their own resource bases and ecological systems and manage them better in
order to meet national, regional and global challenges. Furthermore, in view of
the size and complexity of global environmental problems, a need for more
specialists in several disciplines has become evident world wide.
Objectives
35.21. The primary objective is to improve the scientific capacities of all
countries - in particular, those of developing countries - with specific regard
to:
(a) Education, training and facilities for local research and development
and human resource development in basic scientific disciplines and in
environment-related sciences, utilizing where appropriate traditional and local
knowledge of sustainability;
(b) A substantial increase by the year 2000 in the number of scientists -
particularly women scientists - in those developing countries where their number
is at present insufficient;
(c) Reducing significantly the exodus of scientists from developing
countries and encouraging those who have left to return;
(d) Improving access to relevant information for scientists and decision
makers, with the aim of improving public awareness and participation in
decision-making;
(e) Involvement of scientists in national, regional and global
environmental and developmental research programmes, including multidisciplinary
research;
(f) Periodic academic update of scientists from developing countries in
their respective fields of knowledge.
Activities
35.22. The following activities should be undertaken:
(a) Promote the education and training of scientists, not only in their
disciplines but also in their ability to identify, manage and incorporate
environmental considerations into research and development projects; ensure that
a sound base in natural systems, ecology and resource management is provided; and
develop specialists capable of working in interdisciplinary programmes related
to environment and development, including the field of applied social sciences;
(b) Strengthen the scientific infrastructure in schools, universities and
research institutions - particularly those in developing countries - by the
provision of adequate scientific equipment and access to current scientific
literature, for the purpose of achieving and sustaining a critical mass of highly
qualified scientists in these countries;
(c) Develop and expand national scientific and technological databases,
processing data in unified formats and systems, and allowing full and open access
to the depository libraries of regional scientific and technological information
networks. Promote submission of scientific and technological infor mation and
8
databases to global or regional data centres and network systems;
(d) Develop and expand regional and global scientific and technological
information networks which are based on and linked to national scientific and
technological databases; collect, process and disseminate information from
regional and global scientific programmes; expand activities to reduce
information barriers due to language differences. Increase the applications -
particularly in developing countries - of computer-based retrieval systems in
order to cope with the growth of scientific literature;
(e) Develop, strengthen and forge new partnerships among national, regional
and global capacities to promote the full and open exchange of scientific and
technological data and information and to facilitate technical assistance related
to environmentally sound and sustainable development. This should be done
through the development of mechanisms for the sharing of basic research, data and
information, and the improvement and development of international networks and
centres, including regional linking with national scientific databases, for
research, training and monitoring. Such mechanisms should be designed SO as to
enhance professional cooperation among scientists in all countries and to
establish strong national and regional alliances between industry and research
institutions;
(f) Improve and develop new links between existing networks of natural and
social scientists and universities at the international level in order to
strengthen national capacities in the formulation of policy options in the field
of environment and development;
(g) Compile, analyse and publish information on indigenous environmental
and developmental knowledge, and assist the communities that possess such
knowledge to benefit from them.
Means of implementation
35.23. [Financing and cost evaluation: The cost of this programme area is
estimated to be about $750 million per year for the period 1993-2000, of which
$470 million will be needed from international sources, keeping absorptive
capacity in view.]
35.24.
Scientific and technological means include increasing and strengthening
regional multidisciplinary research and training networks and centres making
optimal use of existing facilities and associated sustainable development and
technology support systems in developing regions. Promote and use the potential
of independent initiatives and indigenous innovations and entrepreneurship. The
function of such networks and centres could include, for example:
(a) Support and coordination of scientific cooperation among all nations
in the region;
(b) Linking with monitoring centres and carrying out assessment of
environmental and developmental conditions;
(c) Support and coordination of national studies of pathways towards
sustainable development;
(d) Organization of science education and training;
(e) Establishment and maintenance of information, monitoring and assessment
systems and databases.
35.25.
Capacity-building includes the following:
9
(a) Create conditions (e.g., salaries, equipment, libraries) to ensure that
the scientists will work effectively in their home countries;
(b) Enhance national, regional and global capacities for carrying out
scientific research and applying scientific and technological information to
environmentally sound and sustainable development. This includes a need to
increase financial resources to global and regional scientific and technological
information networks, as may be appropriate, so that they will be able to
function effectively and efficiently in satisfying the scientific needs of
developing countries. Ensure the capacity-building of women by recruiting more
women in research and research training.
10
Chapter 37
National mechanisms and international cooperation
for capacity-building
Basis for action
37.1
The ability of a country to follow sustainable
development paths is determined to a large extent by the capacity
of its people and its institutions as well as by its ecological and
geographical conditions. Specifically, capacity-building
encompasses the country's human, scientific, technological,
organizational, institutional and resource capabilities.
A
fundamental goal of capacity-building is to enhance the ability to
evaluate and address the crucial questions related to policy
choices and modes of implementation among development options,
based on an understanding of environmental potentials and limits
and of needs as perceived by the people of the country concerned.
As a result, the need to strengthen national capacities is shared
by all countries.
37.2
Building endogenous capacity to implement Agenda 21 will
require the efforts of the countries themselves in partnership with
relevant United Nations organizations, as well as with developed
countries. The international community at the national,
subregional and regional levels, municipalities, non-governmental
organizations, universities and research centres, and business and
other private institutions and organizations could also assist in
these efforts. It is essential for individual countries to
identify priorities and determine the means for building capacity
and capability to implement Agenda 21, taking into account their
environmental and economic needs. Skills, knowledge and technical
know-how at the individual and institutional levels are necessary
for institution-building policy analysis and development
management, including the assessment of alternative courses of
action with a view to enhancing access to and transfer of
technology and promoting economic development. Technical
cooperation, including that related to technology transfer and
know-how, encompasses the whole range of activities to develop or
strengthen individual and group capacities and capabilities. It
should serve the purpose of long-term capacity-building and needs
to be managed and coordinated by the countries themselves.
Technical cooperation, including that related to technology
transfer and know-how, is effective only when it is derived from
and related to a country's own strategies and priorities on
environment and development and when development agencies and
Governments define improved and consistent policies and procedures
to support this process.
Objectives
37.3
The overall objectives of endogenous capacity-building in
this programme area are to develop and improve national and related
subregional and regional capacities and capabilities for
sustainable development, with the involvement of the
non-governmental sectors. The programme should assist by:
(a) Promoting an ongoing participatory process to define
country needs and priorities in promoting Agenda 21 and to give
importance to technical and professional human resource development
and development of institutional capacities and capabilities on the
agenda of countries, with due recognition of the potential for
optimal use of existing human resources as well as enhancement of
the efficiency of existing institutions, and non-governmental
organizations including scientific and technological institutions;
(b) Reorienting and reprioritizing technical cooperation
including that related to technology transfer and know-how process
with due attention to the specific conditions and individual needs
of recipients, while improving coordination among providers of
assistance to support countries' own programmes of action. This
coordination should also include non-governmental organizations and
scientific and technological institutions, as well as business and
industry whenever appropriate;
(c) Shifting time horizons in programme planning and
implementation addressing the developing and strengthening of
institutional structures to enhance their ability to respond to new
longer-term challenges rather than concentrate only on immediate
problems;
(d) Improving and reorienting existing international
multilateral institutions with responsibilities for environment
and/or development matters to ensure that those institutions have
the capability and capacity to integrate environment and
development;
(e) Improving institutional capacity and capability,
both public and private, in order to evaluate the environmental
impact of all development projects.
37.4
Specific objectives include the following:
(a) Each country should aim to complete, as soon as
practicable, if possible by 1994, a review of capacity- and
capability-building requirements for devising national sustainable
development strategies, including those for generating and
implementing its own Agenda 21 action programme;
(b) By 1997, the Secretary-General of the United Nations
should submit to the General Assembly a report on achievement of
improved policies, coordination systems and procedures for
strengthening the implementation of technical cooperation
programmes for sustainable development, as well as on additional
measures required to strengthen such cooperation. That report
should be prepared on the basis of information provided by
countries, international organizations, environment and development
institutions, donor agencies and non-governmental partners.
Activities
Build a national consensus and formulate capacity-building
strategies for implementing Agenda 21
37.5
As an important aspect of overall planning, each country
should seek internal consensus at all levels of society on policies
and programmes needed for short- and long-term capacity-building to
implement its Agenda 21 programme. This consensus should result
from a participatory dialogue of relevant interest groups and lead
to an identification of skill gaps, institutional capacities and
capabilities, technological and scientific requirements and
resource needs to enhance environmental knowledge and
administration to integrate environment and development. The
United Nations Development Programme in partnership with relevant
specialized agencies and other international intergovernmental and
non-governmental organizations could assist, upon request of
Governments, in the identification of the requirements for
technical cooperation including those related to technology
transfer and know-how and development assistance for the
implementation of Agenda 21. The national planning process
together, where appropriate, with national sustainable development
action plans or strategies should provide the framework for such
cooperation and assistance. The United Nations Development
Programme should use and further improve its network of field
offices and its broad mandate to assist, using its experience in
the field of technical cooperation for facilitating
capacity-building at the country and regional levels and making
full use of the expertise of other bodies, in particular the United
Nations Environment Programme, the World Bank and regional
commissions and development banks, as well as relevant
international intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations.
Identify national sources and present requests for technical
cooperation, including that related to technology transfer and
know-how in the framework of sector strategies
37.6
Countries desiring arrangements for technical
cooperation, including that related to technology transfer and
know-how, with international organizations and donor institutions
should formulate requests in the framework of long-term sector or
subsector capacity-building strategies. Strategies should, as
appropriate, address policy adjustments to be implemented,
budgetary issues, cooperation and coordination among institutions,
human resource requirements, and technology and scientific
equipment requirements. They should cover public and private
sector needs and consider strengthening scientific training and
educational and research programmes, including such training in the
developed countries and the strengthening of centres of excellence
in developing countries. Countries could designate and strengthen
a central unit to organize and coordinate technical cooperation,
linking it with the priority-setting and resource allocation
process.
Establish a review mechanism of technical cooperation in and
related to technology transfer and know-how
37.7
Donors and recipients, the organizations and institutions
of the United Nations system, and international public and private
organizations should review the development of the cooperation
process as it relates to technical cooperation, including that
related to technology transfer and know-how activities linked to
sustainable development. To facilitate this process, the
Secretary-General could undertake, taking into account work carried
out by the United Nations Development Programme and other
organizations in preparation for the United Nations Conference on
Environment and Development, consultations with developing
countries, regional organizations, organizations and institutions
of the United Nations system, including regional commissions, and
multilateral and bilateral aid and environment agencies, with a
view to further strengthening the endogenous capacities of
countries and improving technical cooperation, including that
related to the technology transfer and know-how process. The
following aspects should be reviewed:
(a) Evaluation of existing capacity and capability for
the integrated management of environment and development, including
technical, technological and institutional capacities and
capabilities, and facilities to assess the environmental impact of
development projects; and evaluation of abilities to respond to and
link up with needs for technical cooperation, including that
related to technology transfer and know-how, of Agenda 21 and the
global conventions on climate change and biological diversity;
(b) Assessment of the contribution of existing
activities in technical cooperation, including that related to
technology transfer and know-how, towards strengthening and
building. national capacity and capability for integrated
environment and development management and assessment of the means
of improving the quality of international technical cooperation,
including that related to technology transfer and know-how;
(c) A strategy for shifting to a capacity- and
capability-building thrust that recognizes the need for the
operational integration of environment and development with
longer-term commitments, having as a basis the set of national
programmes established by each country, through a participatory
process;
(d) Consideration of greater use of long-term
cooperative arrangements between municipalities, non-governmental
organizations, universities, training and research centres and
business, public and private institutions with counterparts in
other countries or within countries or regions. Programmes such as
the Sustainable Development Networks of the United Nations
Development Programme should be assessed in this regard;
(e) Strengthening of the sustainability of projects by
including in the original project design consideration of
environmental impacts, the costs of institution-building, human
resource development and technology needs, as well as financial and
organizational requirements for operation and maintenance;
(f) Improvement of technical cooperation, including that
related to technology transfer and know-how and management
processes, by giving greater attention to capacity- and
capability-building as an integral part of sustainable development
strategies for environment and development programmes both in
country-related coordination processes, such as consultative groups
and round tables, and in sectoral coordination mechanisms to enable
developing countries to participate actively in obtaining
assistance from different sources.
Enhance the expertise and collective contribution of the United
Nations system for capacity- and capability-building initiatives
37.8
Organizations, organs, bodies and institutions of the
United Nations system, together with other international and
regional organizations and the public and private sectors, could,
as appropriate, strengthen their joint activities in technical
cooperation, including that related to technology transfer and
know-how, in order to address linked environment and development
issues and to promote coherence and consistency of action.
Organizations could assist and reinforce countries, particularly
least developed countries, upon request, on matters relating to
national environmental and developmental policies, human resource
development and fielding of experts, legislation, natural resources
and environmental data.
37.9
The United Nations Development Programme, the World Bank
and regional multilateral development banks, as part of their
participation in national and regional coordination mechanisms,
should assist in facilitating capacity- and capability-building at
the country level, drawing upon the special expertise and
operational capacity of the United Nations Environment Programme in
the environmental field as well as of the specialized agencies,
organizations of the United Nations system and regional and
subregional organizations in their respective areas of competence.
For this purpose the United Nations Development Programme should
mobilize funding for capacity and capability-building, utilizing
its network of field offices and its broad mandate and experience
in the field of technical cooperation, including that related to
technology transfer and know-how. The United Nations Development
Programme, together with these international organizations, should
at the same time continue to develop consultative processes to
enhance mobilization and coordination of funds from the
international community for capacity and capability-building,
including the establishment of an appropriate database. These
responsibilities may need to be accompanied by strengthening of the
United Nations Development Programme's own capacities.
37.10
The national entity in charge of technical cooperation,
with the assistance of the United Nations Development Programme
resident representatives and the United Nations Environment
Programme representatives, should establish a small group of key
actors to steer the process, giving priority to the country's own
strategies and priorities. The experience gained through existing
planning exercises such as the national reports for the United
Nations Conference on Environment and Development, national
conservation strategies and environment action plans should be
fully used and incorporated into a country-driven, participatory
and sustainable development strategy. This should be complemented
with information networks and consultations with donor
organizations in order to improve coordination, as well as access
to the existing body of scientific and technical knowledge and
information available in institutions elsewhere.
Harmonize the delivery of assistance at the regional level
37.11
At the regional level, existing organizations should
consider the desirability of improved regional and subregional
consultative processes and round-table meetings to facilitate the
exchange of data, information and experience in the implementation
of Agenda 21. The United Nations Development Programme, building
on the results of the regional surveys on capacity-building that
those regional organizations carried out on the United Nations
Conference on Environment and Development initiative, and in
collaboration with existing regional, subregional or national
organizations with potential for regional coordination, should
provide a significant input for this purpose. The relevant
national unit should establish a steering mechanism. A periodic
review mechanism should be established among the countries of the
region with the assistance of the appropriate relevant regional
organizations and the participation of development banks, bilateral
aid agencies and non-governmental organizations.
Other
possibilities are to develop national and regional research and
training facilities building on existing regional and subregional
institutions.
Means of implementation
(a) [Financing and costs
37.12 The cost of bilateral expenditures to developing
countries for technical cooperation, including that related to
technology transfer and know-how, is about $15 billion, or about 25
per cent of total official development assistance.
The
implementation of Agenda 21 will require a more effective use of
these funds and additional funding in key areas. [Specific funding
requirements are included in each programme area. Support for the
Secretary-General's consultative process will require approximately
$1 million.]] **
[37.13 As reflected in paragraph 9, there is a need for a new
[funding mechanism coordinated by the United Nations Development
Programme] to provide lead and catalytic funding to give effect to
a major capacity-building initiative. Amounts suggested could be
in the range of $300-$500 million per year, rising over five years
to some $1 billion per year. This would include the establishment
of a consultative group process that could be managed by the United
Nations Development Programme and assisted by a technical advisory
committee to mobilize funding from all sources for capacity- and
capability-building.l **
Note
**
These paragraphs contain matters relating to means of
implementation, including cost estimates, which are
indicative secretariat figures provided pursuant to
decision A/CONF.151/PC/L.49. They remain in brackets as
they have not been negotiated.
LAND RESOURCES: DEFORESTATION
A non-legally binding authoritative statement of
principles for a global consensus on the management,
conservation and sustainable development of
all types of forests.
PREAMBLE
(a) The subject of forests is related to the entire range of
environmental and development issues and opportunities including
[the right to] socio-economic development.
(b) The guiding objective of these principles is to
contribute to the achievement of the management, conservation and
sustainable development of forests, and to provide for their
multiple and complementary function and uses.
(c) Forestry issues and opportunities should be examined in
a holistic and balanced manner within the overall context of
environment and development, taking into consideration the multiple
functions and uses of forests, including traditional uses, and the
likely economic and social stress when these uses are constrained
or restricted, as well as the potential for development that
sustainable forest management can offer.
(d) [The process of the United Nations Conference on
Environment and Development is the most appropriate forum for
conclusive decisions pertaining to global consensus on forests
[which should form the basis for [any subsequent preparations and
adoption of a legal instrument on forests] [all other negotiations
involving forests]]
(e) These principles should apply to all types of forests,
both natural and planted, in all geographic regions and climatic
zones, including austral, boreal, sub-temperate, temperate,
sub-tropical and tropical.
(f) All types of forests embody complex and unique ecological
processes which are the basis for their present and potential
capacity to provide resources to satisfy human needs as well as
environmental values, and as such their sound management and
conservation is of concern to the Governments of the countries to
which they belong [and to the world community] [and are of interest
to the world community and only in so far as they pertain to
international cooperation.]
(g) [Forests are essential to economic development and the
maintenance of all forms of life. States have the right to utilize
their forests in accordance with their development needs. Adequate
management, conservation and sustainable development of all types
of forest require sustainable production and consumption patterns
in all countries, [particularly in developed countries.] [It is
also linked to remunerative prices for forest products that embody
the full environmental and replacement cost; as well as the easing
of the debt burden and the eradication of poverty in developing
countries.] [The globally shared benefits of wise forest
management and conservation should be supported by all beneficiary
countries while recognizing the [special role] [sovereign right] of
the countries [to which they belong] 1.)
(h) Recognizing that the responsibility for forest
management, conservation and sustainable development is in many
States allocated among federal/national, state/provincial and local
levels of government, each State, in accordance with its
constitution and/or national legislation, should pursue these
principles at the appropriate level of government.
PRINCIPLES/ELEMENTS
1.
(a) "States have, in accordance with the Charter of the
United Nations and the principles of international law, the
sovereign right to exploit their own resources pursuant to their
own environmental policies, and the responsibility to ensure that
activities within their jurisdiction or control do not cause damage
to the environment of other States or of areas beyond the limits of
national jurisdiction".
(b) [The [agreed] [full] incremental cost of achieving
[national] [global] benefits associated with forest conservation
and sustainable development requires increased international
cooperation and should be equitably shared by the international
community].
2. (a) States have the sovereign and inalienable right to
utilize, manage and develop their forests in accordance with their
development needs and level of socio-economic development and on
the basis of national policies consistent with sustainable
development and legislation, including the conversion of such areas
for other uses within the overall socio-economic development plan
based on rational land-use policies.
(b) Forest resources and forest lands should be sustainably
managed to meet the social, economic, ecological, cultural and
spiritual human needs of present and future generations. These
needs are for forest products and services, such as wood and wood
products, water, food, fodder, medicine, fuel, shelter, employment,
recreation, habitats for wildlife, landscape diversity, and other
forest products. Appropriate measures should be taken to protect
forests against harmful effects of pollution, including air-borne
pollution, fires, pests and diseases in order to maintain their
full multiple value.
(c) The provision of timely, reliable and accurate
information on forests and forest ecosystems is essential for
public understanding and informed decision-making and should be
ensured.
(d) Governments should promote and provide opportunities for
the participation of interested parties, including local
communities and indigenous people, industries, labour,
non-governmental organizations and individuals, forest dwellers and
women, in the development, implementation and planning of national
forest policies.
3. (a) National policies and strategies should provide a
framework for increased efforts, including the development and
strengthening of institutions and programmes for the management,
conservation and sustainable development of forests and forest
lands.
(b) International institutional arrangements, building on
those organizations and mechanisms already in existence, as
appropriate, should facilitate international cooperation in the
field of forests.
(c) All aspects of environmental protection and social and
economic development as they relate to forests and forest lands
should be integrated and comprehensive.
4. The vital role of all types of forests in maintaining the
ecological processes and balance at the local, national, regional
and global levels through, inter alia, their role in protecting
fragile ecosystems, watersheds and freshwater resources and as rich
storehouses of biodiversity and biological resources and sources of
genetic material for biotechnology products, as well as [carbon
fixation] should be recognized.
5. (a) National forest policies should recognize and duly
support the identity, culture and respect the rights of indigenous
people, their communities and other communities, and forest
dwellers. Appropriate conditions should be promoted for these
groups for them to have an economic stake in forest use, to perform
economic activities, and achieve and maintain cultural identity and
social organization, as well as adequate levels of livelihood and
well-being, including through those land tenure arrangements which
serve as incentives for the sustainable management of forests.
(b) The full participation of women in all aspects of
management, conservation and sustainable development of forests
should be actively promoted.
6. (a) All types of forest play an important role in meeting
energy requirements through the provision of a renewable source of
bio-energy, particularly in developing countries, and the demands
for fuelwood for household and industrial needs should be met
through sustainable forest management, afforestation and
reforestation. To this end, the potential contribution of
plantations of both indigenous and introduced species for the
provision of both fuel and industrial wood should be recognized.
(b) National policies and programmes should take into account
the relationship, where it exists, between the conservation,
management and sustainable development of forests and all aspects
related to the production, consumption, recycling and/or final
disposal of forest products.
(c) Decisions taken on the management, conservation and
sustainable development of forest resources should benefit to the
extent practicable from a comprehensive assessment of economic and
non-economic values of forest goods and services and of the
environmental costs and benefits. The development and improvement
of methodologies for such evaluations should be promoted.
(d) The role of planted forests and permanent agricultural
crops as sustainable and environmentally sound sources of renewable
energy and industrial raw material should be recognized, enhanced
and promoted. Their contribution to the maintenance of ecological
processes, to offsetting pressure on primary/old-growth forest and
to providing regional employment and development with the adequate
involvement of local inhabitants should be recognized and enhanced.
(e) Natural forests also constitute a source of goods and
services and their conservation, sustainable management and use
should be promoted.
7. (a) Efforts should be made to promote a supportive
international economic climate conducive to sustained and
environmentally sound development of forests in all countries,
which include, inter alia, the promotion of sustainable patterns of
production and consumption, the eradication of poverty, and the
promotion of food security.
(b) [Financial resources for economic adjustment should be
provided for the other sectors of the economy of developing
countries with substantive forest cover which set aside more than
their fair share of [undisturbed] [natural] forests for the purpose
of conservation].
[Any developing country possessing a forest cover that exceeds
its present economic and ecological needs should benefit from
specific financial arrangements to ensure sustainable
development particularly of the forestry sector].
[Resources should be provided for investment in globally
beneficial forest conservation through cooperative
arrangements between countries and appropriate market-based
mechanisms, and in the context of internationally agreed
strategies].
8. (a) Efforts should be undertaken towards the greening of the
world [by all countries] [in all geographical areas] [,
particularly] [notably] [in developed countries], [which have in
the past so destroyed their extensive forests and continue to do so
by acid rains] to increase their forest cover [, and these
UNITED NATIONS CONFERENCE ON ENVIRONMENT & DEVELOPMENT
CONFERENCE DES NATIONS UNIES SUR L'ENVIRONNEMENT ET LE DEVELOPPEMENT
160 Route de Florissant
P.O. Box: 80
CH-1231 Conches
Tel: 789-1676
Switzerland
Fax: 789-3536
E-mail:
InterNet/EcoNet: [email protected]
Dialcom 41: tcn4091
GeoNet: mcrl:unced
NOTE TO THE READER:
Please note that this is the final draft of the text which resulted
from the negotiations at the 4th Session of the UNCED Preparatory
Committee. This draft will be edited and translated into the
official languages of the United Nations before its is formally
released.
INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS
(Chapter 38 of Agenda 21)
Basis for action
38.1. The mandate of UNCED emanates from General Assembly resolution
44/228 which, inter alia, affirmed that UNCED should elaborate strategies
and measures to halt and reverse the effects of environmental degradation
in the context of increased national and international efforts to promote
sustainable and environmentally sound development in all countries and that
the promotion of economic growth in developing countries is essential to
address problems of environmental degradation. The intergovernmental
follow-up to the Conference process shall be within the framework of the
United Nations system, with the General Assembly being the supreme policy-
making forum that would provide overall guidance to Governments, United
Nations system and relevant treaty bodies. At the same time, Governments,
as well as regional economic and technical cooperation organizations, have
a responsibility to play an important role in the follow-up to UNCED
Their commitments and actions should be adequately supported by the United
Nations system and multilateral financial institutions. Thus, national and
international efforts would mutually benefit from one another.
38.2. In fulfilling the mandate of the Conference, there is a need for
institutional arrangements within the United Nations system in conformity
with, and providing input to the restructuring and revitalization of the
United Nations in the economic, social and related fields, and the overall
reform of the United Nations, including ongoing changes in the Secretariat.
In the spirit of reform and revitalization of the United Nations system,
implementation of Agenda 21 and other conclusions of UNCED shall be based
on an action- and result-oriented approach and consistent with the
principles of universality, democracy, transparency, cost-effectiveness and
accountability.
38.3. The United Nations system, with its multisectoral capacity and the
extensive experience of a number of specialized agencies in various spheres
of international cooperation in the field of environment and development,
is uniquely positioned to assist Governments establish more effective
patterns of economic and social development with a view to achieving the
objectives of Agenda 21 and sustainable development.
38.4. All agencies of the United Nations system have a key role to play
in the implementation of Agenda 21 within their respective competence. To
page 2
ensure proper coordination and avoid duplication in the implementation of
Agenda 21, there should be an effective division of labour between various
parts of the United Nations system based on their terms of reference and
comparative advantages. Member States, through relevant governing bodies,
are in a position to ensure that these tasks are carried out properly. In
order to facilitate evaluation of agencies' performance and promote
knowledge of their activities, all bodies of the United Nations system
should be required to elaborate and publish reports of their activities on
the implementation of Agenda 21 on a regular basis. Serious and continuous
reviews of their policies, programmes, budgets and activities will also be
required.
38.5. The continued active and effective participation of non-
governmental organizations, the scientific community and the private sector
as well as local groups and communities are important in the implementation
of Agenda 21.
38.6. The institutional structure envisaged below will be based on
agreement on financial resources and mechanisms, technology transfer, the
Earth Charter/Rio Declaration and Agenda 21. In addition, there has to be
an effective link between substantive action and financial support, and
this requires close and effective cooperation and exchange of information
between the United Nations system and the multilateral financial
institutions for the follow-up of Agenda 21 within the institutional
arrangement.
Objectives
38.7. The overall objective is the integration of environment and
development issues at national, sub-regional, regional and international
levels, including in the United Nations system institutional arrangements.
38.8.
Specific objectives shall be:
(a)
to ensure and review the implementation of Agenda 21 SO
as to achieve sustainable development in all countries;
(b)
to enhance the role and functioning of the United
Nations system in the field of environment and development. All relevant
agencies, organizations and programmes of the United Nations system should
adopt concrete programmes for the implementation of Agenda 21 and also
provide policy-guidance for United Nations activities or advice to
Governments upon request, within their respective areas of competence;
(c)
to strengthen cooperation and coordination on environment
and development in the United Nations system;
(d)
to encourage interaction and cooperation between the
United Nations system and other intergovernmental and non-governmental sub-
regional, regional and global institutions and non-governmental
organizations in the field of environment and development;
(e)
to strengthen institutional capabilities and arrangements
required for the effective implementation, follow-up and review of Agenda
21;
(f)
to assist in the strengthening and coordination of
national, sub-regional and regional capacities and actions in the areas of
environment and development;
(g)
to establish effective cooperation and exchange of
information between the United Nations organs, organizations, programmes
and the multilateral financial bodies, within the institutional
arrangements for the follow-up of Agenda 21;
page 3
(h)
to respond to continuing and emerging issues relating to
environment and development;
(i)
to ensure that any new institutional arrangements would
support revitalization, clear division of responsibilities and the
avoidance of duplication in the United Nations system and depend to the
maximum extent possible upon existing resources.
Institutional structure
A. General Assembly
38.9. The General Assembly, as the highest level inter-governmental
mechanism, is the principal policy-making and appraisal organ on matters
relating to the follow-up of UNCED. The General Assembly would organize a
regular review of the implementation of Agenda 21. In fulfilling this task
the General Assembly could consider the timing, format and organizational
aspects of such a review. In particular, the General Assembly could
consider holding a special session no later than 1997 for the purposes of
overall review and appraisal of Agenda 21, with adequate preparations at a
high level.
B. Economic and Social Council
38.10. The Economic and Social Council, in the context of its Charter
role vis-a-vis the General Assembly and the ongoing restructuring and
revitalization of the United Nations in the economic, social and related
fields, would assist the General Assembly through overseeing system-wide
coordination, overview on the implementation of Agenda 21 and making
recommendations in this regard. In addition, the Council would undertake
the task of directing system-wide coordination and integration of
environmental and developmental aspects in the United Nations' policies and
programmes and make appropriate recommendations to the General Assembly,
specialized agencies concerned and Member States Appropriate steps
should be taken to obtain regular reports from specialized agencies on
their plans and programmes related to the implementation of Agenda 21,
pursuant to Article 64 of the Charter of the United Nations.
INTERGOVERNMENTAL MECHANISMS
38.11. In order to enhance and rationalize the intergovernmental
decision-making capacity for integration of environment and development
issues and to ensure effective follow up to UNCED and the implementation of
Agenda 21, provision shall be made within the framework of the General
Assembly and the Economic and Social Council. This should provide for
active involvement from organs, programmes and organizations of the United
Nations system, Governments and non-governmental organizations including
industry, business and scientific communities. It could take the form of
either:
a high-level Commission on Sustainable Development as the main
subsidiary organ of the General Assembly and the ECOSOC for the
integration of environment and development issues that will
report directly to the General Assembly on matters of substance
and through ECOSOC to the General Assembly on matters related
to coordination. It would consist of States elected as members
of this Commission;
or
The full use of a revitalized ECOSOC, in accordance with
General Assembly resolution 45/264, with a recommendation for
either the establishment of a subsidiary mechanism such as, in
particular, a third sessional committee, or the full
utilization of its new high level and coordination segments.
On the basis of the conclusions of UNCED, the 47th session of the
General Assembly should determine specific modalities for the work and
other organizational aspects of institutional arrangements agreed at the
Conference, in conjunction with a review of the complementarity between the
role of ECOSOC and the General Assembly in accordance with General Assembly
resolution 45/264. In this respect, the Secretary-General is requested to
prepare a report with appropriate recommendations taking into account
institutional objectives and functions decided by UNCED.
INTERGOVERNMENTAL FUNCTIONS
38.12. The intergovernmental functions to be undertaken within the
framework of the General Assembly and the ECOSOC and any other
intergovernmental mechanism that may be established are:
(a)
To monitor progress in the implementation of Agenda 21
and activities related to the integration of
environmental and developmental goals throughout the
United Nations system through analysis and evaluation of
reports from all relevant organs, organizations,
programmes and institutions of the United Nations system
dealing with various issues of environment and
development, including those related to finance;
(b)
To consider reports [that may be] [periodically] provided
by Governments regarding the implementation of Agenda 21
including information on activities they undertake and
problems they face such as on financial resources and
technology transfer;
(c)
To review the progress in the implementation of the
commitments contained in Agenda 21, including those
related to provision of financial resources and transfer
of technology;
(d)
To receive and analyse relevant imput from competent non-
governmental organizations, including the scientific and
the private sector, in the context of the overall
implementation of Agenda 21;
(e)
To enhance the dialogue within the framework of the
United Nations with non-governmental organizations and
the independent sector as well as other entities outside
the United Nations system;
(f)
[To consider reports presented by relevant treaty bodies
on the implementation of environmental conventions;] [To
consider reports on implementation of environmental
conventions which the relevant conferences of parties may
wish to provide;]
(g)
To provide appropriate recommendations to the General
Assembly on the basis of an integrated consideration of
the reports and issues related to the implementation of
Agenda 21; and
(h)
To consider, at an appropriate time, the results of the
survey to be conducted expeditiously by the United
Nations Secretary-General of all UNCED recommendations
for capacity-building programmes, information networks,
task forces and other mechanisms to support the
page 4
integration of environment and development at regional
and sub-regional levels.
38.13. Within the intergovernmental framework, consideration should be
given to allow non-governmental organizations including those related to
major groups, particularly women's groups, committed to the implementation
of Agenda 21 to have relevant information available to them including
information, reports and other data produced within the United Nations
system.
C. The Secretary-General
38.14. Strong and effective leadership on the part of the Secretary-
General is crucial, since he/she would be the focal point of the
institutional arrangements within the United Nations system for the
successful follow-up to the Conference and for the implementation of Agenda
21.
D. High-level interagency coordination mechanism
38.15. Agenda 21, as the basis for action by the international community
to integrate environment and development, should provide the principal
framework for coordination of relevant activities within the United Nations
system. To ensure effective monitoring, coordination and supervision of the
involvement of the United Nations system in the follow-up to the
Conference, there is a need for a coordination mechanism under the direct
leadership of the Secretary-General.
38.16. This task should be given to the Administrative Committee on
Coordination (ACC) headed by the Secretary-General. ACC would thus provide
a vital link and interface between the multilateral financial institutions
and other United Nations bodies at the highest administrative level. The
Secretary-General should continue to revitalize the functioning of the
Committee. All heads of agencies and institutions of the United Nations
system shall be expected to cooperate with the Secretary-General fully in
order to make ACC work effectively in fulfilling its crucial role and
ensure successful implementation of Agenda 21. The ACC should consider
establishing a special task force, subcommittee or sustainable development
board, taking into account the experience of the Designated Officials on
Environmental Matters (DOEM) and the Committee of International Development
Institutions on the Environment (CIDIE) as well as the respective roles of
the UNEP and UNDP. Its report should be submitted to the relevant
intergovernmental bodies.
E. High-level advisory body
38.17. Intergovernmental bodies, the Secretary-General and the United
Nations system as a whole may also benefit from the expertise of a high-
level advisory board consisting of eminent persons knowledgeable about
environment and development, including relevant sciences, appointed by the
Secretary-General in their personal capacity. In this regard, the
Secretary-General should make appropriate recommendations to the 47th
session of the General Assembly.
F. Secretariat support structure
38.18. A highly qualified and competent secretariat support structure
within the United Nations Secretariat, drawing, inter alia, on the
expertise gained in the UNCED preparatory process is essential for the
follow-up to the Conference and the implementation of Agenda 21. This
secretariat support structure should provide support to the work of both
page 5
intergovernmental and interagency coordination mechanisms. Concrete
organizational decisions fall within the competence of the Secretary-
General as the chief administrative officer of the Organization, who is
requested to report on the provisions to be made, covering staffing
implications, as soon as practicable, taking into account gender balance as
defined in Article 8 of the United Nations Charter, and the need for the
optimum use of existing resources in the context of current and ongoing
restructuring of the United Nations Secretariat.
G. Organs, programmes, organizations of the United Nations system
38.19. In the follow-up to the Conference, in particular implementation
of Agenda 21, all relevant organs, programmes and organizations of the
United Nations system will have an important role within their respective
areas of expertise and mandates in supporting and supplementing national
efforts. Coordination and mutual complementarity of their efforts to
promote integration of environment and development can be enhanced through
countries encouraging to maintain consistent positions in the various
governing bodies.
United Nations Environment Programme
38.20. In the follow-up to the Conference, there will be a need for an
enhanced and strengthened role of UNEP and its Governing Council. The
Governing Council should within its mandate continue to play its role with
regard to policy guidance and coordination in the field of the environment,
taking into account the development perspective.
38.21. Priority areas on which UNEP should concentrate include the
following:
(a)
strengthening its catalytic role in stimulating and
promoting environmental activities and considerations throughout
the United Nations system;
(b).
promoting international cooperation in the field of
environment and recommending, as appropriate, policies to this
end;
(c)
developing and promoting the use of techniques such as
natural resource accounting and environmental economics;
(d)
environmental monitoring and assessment, both through
improved participation by the United Nations system agencies in
the Earthwatch programme and expanded relations with private
scientific and non-governmental research institutes; strengthening
and making operational its early warning function;
(e)
coordination and promotion of relevant scientific
research with a view to providing a consolidated basis for
decision-making;
(f)
dissemination of environmental information and data to
Governments and to organs, programmes and organizations of the
United Nations system;
(g)
raising general awareness and action in the area of
environmental protection through collaboration with the general
public, non-governmental entities and intergovernmental
institutions;
(h)
further development of international environmental law,
in particular conventions and guidelines, promotion of its
implementation, and coordinating functions arising from an
page 6
increasing number of international legal agreements, inter alia,
the functioning of the secretariats of the Conventions, taking
into account the need for the most efficient use of resources,
including possible co-location of secretariats established in the
future;
(i)
further development and promotion of the widest possible
use of environmental impact assessments, including activities
carried out under the auspices of United Nations specialized
agencies, and in connection with every significant economic
development project or activity;
(j)
facilitation of information exchange on environmentally
sound technologies, including legal aspects, and provision of
training;
(k)
promotion of sub-regional and regional cooperation and
support to relevant initiatives and programmes for environmental
protection including playing a major contributing and coordinating
role in the regional mechanisms in the field of environment
identified for the follow-up to UNCED;
(1)
providing technical, legal and institutional advice to
Governments, upon request in establishing and enhancing their
national legal and institutional frameworks, in particular, in
cooperation with UNDP capacity-building efforts;
(m)
supporting Governments, upon request, and development
agencies and organs in the integration of environmental aspects
into their development policies and programmes, in particular
through provision of environmental, technical and policy advice
during programme formulation and implementation;
(n)
further developing assessment and assistance in cases of
environmental emergencies.
38.22. In order for UNEP to perform all of these functions, while
retaining its role as the principal body within the United Nations system
in the field of environment and taking into account the development aspects
of environmental questions, it would require access to greater expertise
and provision of adequate financial resources and it would require closer
cooperation and collaboration with development and other relevant organs of
the United Nations system. Furthermore, UNEP's regional offices should be
strengthened without weakening its headquarters in Nairobi, and UNEP should
take steps to reinforce and intensify its liaison and interaction with UNDP
and the World Bank.
United Nations Development Programme
38.23. UNDP, like UNEP, also has a crucial role in the follow-up to the
UNCED. Through its network of field offices it would foster the United
Nations system's collective thrust in support of the implementation of
Agenda 21, at the country, regional, interregional and global levels,
drawing on the expertise of the specialized agencies and other United
Nations organizations and bodies involved in operational activities. The
role of the Resident Representative/Resident Coordinator of UNDP needs to
be strengthened in order to coordinate the field-level activities of the
United Nations operational activities.
38.24. Its role would include the following:
(a)
acting as the lead agency in organizing United Nations
system efforts towards capacity-building at the local,
national and regional levels;
page 7
(b)
mobilizing donor resources on behalf of Governments for
capacity-building in recipient countries and, where
appropriate, through the use of UNDP round-table
mechanisms;
(c)
strengthening its own programmes in support of follow-up
to UNCED without prejudice to the Fifth Programme Cycle;
(d)
assisting recipient countries, upon request, in the
establishment and strengthening of national coordination
mechanisms and networks related to activities for the
follow-up of the UNCED;
(e)
assisting recipient countries, upon request, in
coordinating the mobilization of domestic financial
resources;
(f)
promoting and strengthening the role and involvement of
women, youth and other major groups, in recipient
countries in the implementation of Agenda 21.
United Nations Conference on Trade and Development
38.25. UNCTAD should play an important role in the implementation of
Agenda 21 as extended at UNCTAD VIII, taking into account the importance of
the interrelationships between development, international trade and the
environment and in accordance with its mandate in the area of sustainable
development.
United Nations Sudano-Sahelian Office
38.26. The role of the United Nations Sudano-Sahelian Office, with added
resources that may become available, operating under the umbrella of UNDP
and with the support of UNEP, should be strengthened so that this body can
assume an appropriate major advisory role and participate effectively in
the implementation of Agenda 21 provisions related to combating drought,
desertification as well as land resource management. In this context, the
experience gained could be used by all other countries affected by drought
and desertification, in particular those in Africa, with special attention
to countries most affected or classified as least-developed countries.
United Nations specialized agencies and related organizations
and other relevant intergovernmental organizations
38.27. All United Nations specialized agencies, related organizations and
other relevant intergovernmental organizations within their respective
fields of competence have an important role to play in the implementation
of relevant parts of Agenda 21 and other decisions of UNCED. Their
governing bodies may consider ways of strengthening and adjusting
activities and programmes in line with Agenda 21, in particular, regarding
projects for promoting sustainable development. Furthermore, they may
consider establishing special arrangements with donors and financial
institutions for project implementation that may require additional
resources.
H. Regional and sub-regional cooperation and implementation
38.28. Regional and sub-regional cooperation will be an important part of
the Conference outcome. The United Nations regional economic commissions,
regional development banks and regional economic and technical cooperation
organizations, within their respective agreed mandates, can contribute to
this process by:
page 8
(a)
promoting regional and sub-regional capacity-building;
(b)
promoting the integration of environmental concerns in
regional and sub-regional development policies;
(c)
promoting regional and sub-regional cooperation, where
appropriate, regarding transboundary issues related to
sustainable development.
38.29. Regional economic commissions, as appropriate, should play a
leading role in coordinating regional and sub-regional activities by
sectoral and other United Nations bodies and shall assist countries in
achieving sustainable development. These commissions, regional programmes
within the United Nations system, as well as other regional organizations
should review the need for modification of ongoing activities, as
appropriate, in light of Agenda 21.
38.30. There must be active cooperation and collaboration among the
regional commissions and other relevant organizations, regional development
banks, non-governmental organizations and other institutions at the
regional level. UNEP and UNDP, together with the regional commissions,
would have a crucial role to play, especially in providing the necessary
assistance, with particular emphasis on building and strengthening the
national capacity of Member States.
38.31. There is a need for closer cooperation between UNEP and UNDP,
together with other relevant institutions, in the implementation of
projects to halt environmental degradation or its impact, and to support
training programmes in environmental planning and management for
sustainable development at the regional level.
38.32. Regional intergovernmental technical and economic organizations
have an important role to play in helping Governments to take coordinated
action in solving environment issues of regional significance.
38.33. Regional and subregional organizations should play a major role in
the implementation of Agenda 21 provisions related to combating drought and
desertification. UNEP, UNDP and UNSO should assist and cooperate with
those relevant organizations.
38.34. Cooperation between regional and subregional organizations and
relevant organizations of the United Nations system should be encouraged,
where appropriate, in other sectoral areas.
I. National implementation
38.35. States have an important role to play in the follow-up of UNCED
and the implementation of Agenda 21. National level efforts should be
undertaken by all countries in an integrated manner so that both
environment and development concerns can be dealt with in a coherent
manner.
38.36. Policy decisions and activities at the national level, tailored to
support and implement Agenda 21 should be supported by the United Nations
system upon request.
38.37. Furthermore, States could consider the preparation of national
reports. In this context, the organs of the United Nations system should,
upon request, assist countries, in particular developing countries.
Countries could also consider the preparation of national action plans for
the implementation of Agenda 21.
38.38. Existing assistance consortia, consultative groups and round
tables should make greater efforts to integrate environmental
considerations and related development objectives into their development
assistance strategies, and consider reorienting and appropriately adjusting
page 9
their membership and operations to facilitate this process and better
support national efforts to integrate environment and development.
38.39. States may wish to consider setting up a national coordination
structure responsible for the follow-up of Agenda 21. Within this
structure, which would benefit from the expertise of non-governmental
organizations, submissions and other relevant information could be made to
the United Nations.
J. Cooperation between United Nations bodies and
international financial organizations
38.40. The success of the follow-up to the Conference is dependent upon
an effective link between substantive action and financial support, and
this requires close and effective cooperation between United Nations bodies
and the multilateral financial organizations. The Secretary-General and
heads of United Nations programmes, organizations and the multi-lateral
financial organizations have a special responsibility in forging such a
cooperation, not only through full participation in the United Nations
high-level coordination mechanism (Administrative Committee on
Coordination) but also at regional and national levels. In particular,
representatives of multilateral financial institutions and mechanisms, as
well as the International Fund for Agricultural Development, should be
actively associated with deliberations of the intergovernmental structure
responsible for the follow up to Agenda 21.
K. Non-governmental organizations
38.41. Non-governmental organizations and major groups are important
partners in the implementation of Agenda 21. Relevant non-governmental
organizations, including scientific community, the private sector, women's
groups, etc., should be given opportunities to make their contributions and
establish appropriate relationships with the United Nations system.
Support should be provided for developing countries' non-governmental
organizations and their self-organized networks.
38.42. The United Nations system, including international finance and
development agencies, and all intergovernmental organizations and forums
should, in consultation with non-governmental organizations take measures
to:
(a)
design open and effective means to achieve the
participation of non-governmental organizations,
including those related to major groups, in the process
established to review and evaluate the implementation of
Agenda 21 at all levels and promote their contribution to
it;
(b)
take into account the findings of non-governmental
organizations' review systems and evaluation processes in
relevant reports of the Secretary-General to the General
Assembly and all pertinent United Nations agencies and
intergovernmental organizations and forums concerning
implementation of Agenda 21 in accordance with its review
process.
38.43. Procedures should be established for an expanded role for non-
governmental organizations, including those related to major groups, with
accreditation based on the procedures used in UNCED. Such organizations
should have access to reports and other information produced by the United
Nations system. The General Assembly, at an early stage, should examine
ways of enhancing the involvement of non-governmental organizations within
the United Nations system in relation to the UNCED follow-up process.
page 10
38.44. The Conference takes note of other institutional initiatives for
the implementation of Agenda 21, such as the proposal to establish a non-
governmental Earth Council and the proposal to appoint a guardian for
future generations as well as other initiatives by local Governments and
business sectors.
[L. Legal matters]
page 11
countries should take positive and transparent actions to increase
their forest cover through reforestation and afforestation [and
conservation of existing forests] [as well as maintaining, as far
as practicable, existing forest cover] [where beneficial]. [In
this context, cooperative arrangements between countries for
economically efficient joint implementation of forest management
activities should be encouraged.]
(b) Efforts to maintain and increase forest cover and forest
productivity should be undertaken in ecologically, economically and
socially sound ways through the rehabilitation, reforestation and
re-establishment of trees and forests on unproductive, degraded and
deforested lands, as well as through the management of existing
forest resources.
(c) The implementation of national policies and programmes
aimed at forest management, conservation and sustainable
development, particularly in developing countries, should be
supported by international financial and technical cooperation,
including through the private sector, where appropriate.
(d) [Sustainable forest management and use should be carried
out in accordance with [internationally accepted] [formally agreed
in multilateral forums] environmentally sound [national]
guidelines.]
(e) Forest management should be integrated with management of
adjacent areas so as to maintain ecological balance and sustainable
productivity.
(f) National policies and/or legislation aimed at management,
conservation and sustainable development of forests should include
the protection of [ecologically viable] representative or unique
examples of forests, including primary/old-growth forests,
cultural, spiritual, historical, religious and other unique valued
forests of national importance.
(g) [Availability of biological resources, including genetic
material, shall be with due regard to the sovereign rights of the
countries where the forests are located and to the sharing of
technology and profits from biotechnology products, for example,
pharmaceutical, that are derived from these resources.] (note:
subject to convention on biodiversity)
(h) National policies should ensure that environmental impact
assessments should be carried out where [government] actions are
likely to have significant adverse impacts on important forest
resources.
9. (a) [The external indebtedness, in particular of developing
countries, [the phenomenon of net transfer of resources from
developing to developed countries], the inaccurate economic
valuation of forest products and the lack of effective market
forces are among the major factors that reduce the capacity and
ability of [developing] countries to manage, conserve and develop
their forest resources, and national and international policies
should be devised to redress such problems in the broader context
of a supportive international economic environment.]
Alternative: [The external indebtedness, in particular of
developing to developed countries, the phenomenon of net transfer
of resources to developed countries, the inadequate prices for
forest products below full replacement cost, and the lack of
effective market forces are among the major factors that reduce the
capacity and ability of developing countries to manage, conserve
and develop their forest resources, and international policies
should be devised to redress such problems in the broader context
of a supportive international economic environment.]
(b) The problems that hinder efforts to attain the
conservation and sustainable use of forest resources and that stem
from the lack of alternative options available to local
communities, in particular the urban poor and poor rural
populations who are economically and socially dependent on forests
and forest resources, should be addressed by Governments and the
international community.
(c) [Policy formulation with respect to forests should take
account of the pressures and demands imposed on forest ecosystems
and resources from causes outside the forest sector, both
domestically and internationally, and means of dealing with these
pressures and demands should be [sought] [considered]].
10. [Developing countries should be compensated for the
opportunity cost foregone [, including historical loss of primary
forest cover, and the comparatively higher cost entailed [in the
short term by] [international cooperation is required to assist
developing countries in meeting the higher cost entailed in]
[increasing forest cover and sustainable management and
conservation of their forest resources [in order to maintain
biological diversity and climatic stability] ]]
11. [ [New] [Adequate] and additional] financial resources should
be provided to developing countries through [existing mechanisms
both bilateral and multilateral] [a global fund] to enable them to
sustainably manage, [enhance], conserve and develop their forests'
resources, including afforestation, reforestation and combating
deforestation, forest and land degradation.
12. [The transfer of environmentally sound [appropriate]
technology to developing countries], [Technology cooperation in
environmentally sound technologies] [, including on concessional
and preferential terms,] [Joint development of technology relevant
to the conservation and sustainable utilization of biological
diversity, including genetic material in gene banks, as well as
those technologies that make use of forest resources including
biological resources and genetic material for other purposes such
as pharmaceuticals etc.] should be promoted to enable developing
countries to enhance their endogenous capacity and to better
manage, conserve and develop their forest resources.
13. (a) Scientific research, forest inventories and assessments,
carried out by national institutions which take into account, where
relevant, biological, physical, social, and economic variables and
the technological development as well as its application in the
field of sustainable forest management, conservation and
development, should be strengthened through effective modalities,
including international cooperation. In this context, attention
should also be given to research and development of sustainably
harvested non-wood products.
(b) National and, where appropriate, regional and
international institutional capabilities in education, training,
science, technology, economics, anthropology and social aspects of
forests and forest management are essential to the conservation and
sustainable development of forests and should be strengthened.
(c) International exchange of information on the results of
forest and forest management research and development should be
enhanced and broadened, as appropriate, making full use of
education and training institutions, including those in the private
sector.
(d) Appropriate indigenous capacity and local knowledge
regarding the conservation and sustainable development of forests
should, through institutional and financial support, and in
collaboration with the people in local communities concerned, be
recognized, respected, recorded, developed [compensated] and, as
appropriate, introduced in the implementation of programmes.
14. (a) Trade in forest products should be based on
non-discriminatory and multilaterally agreed rules and procedures
consistent with international trade law and practices. In this
context, open and free international trade in forest products
should be facilitated.
(b) [Removal of tariff barriers and impediments to] the
provision of better market access and better prices for higher
value-added forest products and their local processing should be
encouraged to enable producer countries to better conserve and
manage their renewable forest resources.
(c) Incorporation of environmental costs and benefits into
market forces and mechanisms, in order to achieve forest
conservation and sustainable development, should be encouraged both
domestically and internationally.
(d) Forest conservation and sustainable development policies
should be integrated with economic, trade [and other relevant]
policies.
[Fiscal, trade, industrial, transportation, and other
policies and practices that may lead to forest
degradation should be avoided. Economic or other
incentives aimed at sound forest management practices
should be encouraged.]
15. (a) [All forms of unilateral action to restrict and/or ban
the use of timber and other forest products in international trade
should be removed, as such actions are counter-productive in terms
of long-term sustainable forest management [, and relevant national
legislation should be promulgated to prohibit all such unilateral
restrictions and/or bans] .]
(b) [Orderly and] free international trade in forest products
[from sustainably managed forest resources] should be facilitated.
16. Pollutants, particularly air borne pollutants, including those
responsible for acidic deposition, that are harmful to the health
of forest ecosystems at the local, national, [trans-boundary] and
global levels should be [strictly] controlled [, where necessary].
17. [Forests constitute a [significant] reservoir of carbon and
[their role in the global carbon cycle] should be [recognized]
[taken into account] and considered [as appropriate] [in the
development of national forests policies and plans].
UNITED NATIONS CONFERENCE ON ENVIRONMENT & DEVELOPMENT
CONFERENCE DES NATIONS UNIES SUR L'ENVIRONNEMENT ET LE DEVELOPPEMENT
160 Route de Florissant
P.O. Box: 80
CH-1231 Conches
Tel: (41-22) 789-1676
Switzerland
Fax: (41-22)789-3536
E-mail:
InterNet/EcoNet: [email protected]
Dialcom 41: tcn4091
GeoNet: mcrl:unced
NOTE TO THE READER:
Please note that this is the final draft of the text which resulted
from the negotiations at the 4th Session of the UNCED Preparatory
Committee. This draft will be edited and translated into the
official languages of the United Nations before its is formally
released.
INTERNATIONAL LEGAL INSTRUMENTS AND MECHANISMS
(Chapter 39 of Agenda 21)
Basis for action
39.1. The recognition that the following vital aspects of the
universal, multilateral and bilateral treaty-making process should be taken
into account:
a)
The further development of international law on sustainable
development, giving special attention to the delicate balance between
environmental and developmental concerns;
b)
The need to clarify and strengthen the relationship between
existing international instruments or agreements in the field of
environment and relevant social and economic agreements or
instruments, taking into account the special needs of developing
countries;
c)
At the global level, the essential importance of the
participation in and the contribution of all countries, including the
developing countries, to treaty-making in the field of international
law on sustainable development. Many of the existing international
legal instruments and agreements in the field of environment have
been developed without adequate participation and contribution of
developing countries, and thus may require review in order to reflect
the concerns and interests of developing countries and to ensure a
balanced governance of such instruments and agreements;
d)
Developing countries should also be provided with technical
assistance in their attempts to enhance their national legislative
capabilities in the field of sustainable development;
e)
Future codification projects for the progressive development
and codification of international law on sustainable development
should take into account the ongoing work of the International Law
Commission; and
f)
Any negotiations for the progressive development and
codification of international law concerning sustainable development
should, in general, be conducted on a universal basis, taking into
account special circumstances in the various regions.
page 2
Objectives
39.2. The overall objective of the review and development of international
environmental law should be to evaluate and to promote the efficacy of that
law and to promote the integration of environment and development policies
through effective international agreements or instruments, taking into
account both universal principles and the particular and differentiated
needs and concerns of all countries.
39.3. Specific objectives are:
a)
To identify and address difficulties which prevent some States,
in particular developing countries, from participating in or duly
implementing international agreements or instruments and, where
appropriate, to review or revise them with the purposes of
integrating environmental and developmental concerns and laying down
a sound basis for the implementation of these agreements or
instruments;
b)
To set priorities for future international law-making on
sustainable development at the global, regional or sub-regional
level, with a view to enhancing the efficacy of international law in
this field through, in particular, the integration of environmental
and developmental concerns;
c)
To promote and support the effective participation of all
countries concerned, in particular developing countries in the
negotiation, implementation, review and governance of international
agreements or instruments, including appropriate provision of
technical and financial assistance and other available mechanisms for
this purpose, as well as the use of differential obligations where
appropriate;
d)
To promote, through the gradual development of universally and
multilaterally negotiated agreements or instruments, international
standards for the protection of the environment that take into
account the different situations and capabilities of countries [,
thus avoiding the possible use of unilaterally set environmental
standards as barriers to trade] [in order to establish a framework
for coexistence between environmental measures and international
trade rules, and thus aiming at preventing the use of environmental
measures for protectionist purposes];
e)
To ensure the effective and appropriate implementation [and
compliance,] and to facilitate timely review and adjustment of
agreements or instruments by the parties concerned, taking into
account the special needs and concerns of all countries, in
particular developing countries;
f)
To improve the effectiveness of institutions, mechanisms and
procedures for the administration of agreements and instruments;
g)
To identify and prevent actual or potential conflicts,
particularly between environmental and social/economic agreements or
instruments, with a view to ensuring that such agreements or
instruments are consistent. Where conflicts arise, they should be
appropriately resolved;
h)
To study and consider the broadening and strengthening of
mechanisms to identify [, prevent] and settle international disputes
in the field of sustainable development, duly taking into account
existing bilateral and multilateral agreements for the settlement of
such disputes.
Activities
page 3
39.4 Activities and means of implementation should be considered in the
light of the above Basis for Action and Objectives without prejudice to the
right of every State to put forward suggestions in this regard in the
General Assembly of the United Nations. These suggestions could be
reproduced in a separate compilation on sustainable development.
A. Review, assessment and fields of action in
international law for sustainable development
39.5. While ensuring the effective participation of all countries
concerned, Parties should at periodic intervals review and assess both the
past performance and effectiveness of existing international agreements or
instruments as well as the priorities for future law-making on sustainable
development. This may include an examination of the feasibility of
elaborating general rights and obligations of States, as appropriate, in
the field of sustainable development, as provided by General Assembly
resolution 44/228. In certain cases, attention should be given to the
possibility of taking into account varying circumstances through
differential obligations or gradual application. As an option for carrying
out this task, earlier UNEP practice may be followed whereby legal experts
designated by governments could meet at suitable intervals to be decided
later with a broader environmental and developmental perspective.
[39.6.
(a) In view of the importance of full compliance with the
relevant rules of international law, all appropriate means should be
considered to prevent any wilfully caused large-scale destruction of the
environment [in times of war], which cannot be justified under
international law. The General Assembly and its Sixth Committee as well
as, in particular, the expert meetings of the International Committee of
the Red Cross, are the appropriate fora to deal with this subject.
(b) In view of the vital necessity of continuing to promote the
highest level of safe and environmentally sound management of nuclear power
worldwide, international cooperation should be strengthened by a step-by-
step approach to a nuclear safety convention and its implementation. The
relevant work already under way at the International Atomic Energy Agency
should be welcomed and it is emphasized that there is a necessity to pass a
nuclear safety convention in the framework of IAEA.]
B. Implementation [and compliance] mechanisms
39.7. The Parties to international agreements should consider procedures
and mechanisms to promote and review implementation [and compliance]. To
that effect, States could, inter alia:
(a)
Establish efficient and practical reporting systems on the
implementation of [and compliance with] international legal instruments;
and
(b) Consider appropriate ways in which relevant international
bodies, such as UNEP, might contribute towards the further development of
such mechanisms.
C. Effective participation in international law-making
39.8. In all these activities and others that may be pursued in the future,
based on the above Basis for Action and Objectives, the effective
participation of all countries, in particular developing countries, should
be ensured through appropriate provision of technical assistance and/or
financial assistance. Developing countries should be given "headstart"
support not only in their national efforts to implement international
agreements or instruments, but also to participate effectively in the
page 4
negotiation of new or revised agreements or instruments and in the actual
international operation of such agreements or instruments. Support should
include assistance in building up expertise in international law
particularly in relation to sustainable development, and in assuring access
to the necessary reference information and scientific/technical expertise
[on fair and equitable terms.]
D. Dispute [prevention and] settlement
39.9. In the area of [prevention and] settlement of disputes, States should
further study and consider methods to broaden and make more effective the
range of techniques available at present, taking into account, among
others, relevant experience under existing international agreements or
instruments and, where appropriate, their implementing mechanisms such as
modalities for dispute [prevention and] settlement. This may include
[,inter alia,] mechanisms and procedures for the exchange of data and
information [, notification, consultation and fact-finding] regarding
situations that might lead to disputes with other States in the field of
sustainable development; and consideration of the inclusion in treaties
relating to sustainable development, of clauses providing for the effective
peaceful settlement of disputes. [Existing institutions, in particular the
International Court of Justice, should also play a role in this field].
Agenda-21: Ch. 40, Information for decision-making
Page 1
NOTE TO THE READER:
Please note that this is the final draft of the text which resulted from the negotiations
at the 4th Session of the UNCED Preparatory Committee. This draft will be edited
and translated into the official languages of the United Nations before its is formally
released.
INFORMATION FOR DECISION-MAKING
(Chapter 40 of Agenda 21)
I. INTRODUCTION
40.1
In sustainable development, everyone is a user and provider of information
considered in the broad sense that includes data, information, appropriately packaged
experience and knowledge. The need for information arises at all levels, from that of senior
decision makers at the national and international levels to the grass-roots and individual
levels. The following two programme areas need to be implemented to ensure that decisions
are based increasingly on sound information:
(a)
Bridging the data gap;
(b)
Improving information availability.
II. PROGRAMME AREAS
A. Bridging the data gap
Basis for action
40.2
While considerable data already exist, as the various sectoral chapters of
Agenda 21 indicate, more and different types of data need to be collected, at local,
provincial, national and international levels, indicating the status and trends of the planet's
ecosystem, natural resource, pollution and socio-economic variables. The gap in the
availability, quality, coherence, standardization and accessibility of data between the
developed and the developing world has been increasing, seriously impairing the capacities
of countries to make informed decisions concerning environment and development.
40.3
There is a general lack of capacity, particularly in developing countries, and
Agenda-21: Ch. 40, Information for decision-making
Page 2
in many areas at the international level, for the collection and assessment of data, for their
transformation into useful information and for their dissemination. There is also need for
improved coordination among environmental, demographic, social and developmental data
and information activities.
40.4
Commonly used indicators such as the gross national product (GNP) and
measurements of individual resource or pollution flows do not provide adequate indications
of sustainability. Methods for assessing interactions between different sectoral
environmental, demographic, social and developmental parameters are not sufficiently
developed or applied. Indicators of sustainable development need to be developed to provide
solid bases for decision-making at all levels and to contribute to a self-regulating
sustainability of integrated environment and development systems.
Objectives
40.5
The following objectives are important:
(a)
To achieve more cost-effective and relevant data collection and assessment by
better identification of users, in both the public and private sectors, and of their information
needs at local, provincial, national and international levels;
(b)
To strengthen local, provincial, national and international capacity to collect
and use multisectoral information in decision-making processes and to enhance capacities to
collect and analyse data and information for decision-making, particularly in developing
countries;
(c)
To develop or strengthen local, provincial, national and international means
of ensuring that planning for sustainable development in all sectors is based on timely,
reliable and usable information;
(d)
To make relevant information accessible in the form and at the time required
to facilitate its use.
Activities
(a)
Development of indicators of sustainable development
40.6
Countries at the national level and international governmental and
non-governmental organizations at the international level should develop the concept of
indicators of sustainable development, in order to identify such indicators. In order to
promote the increasing use of some of those indicators in satellite accounts, and eventually
in national accounts, the development of indicators needs to be pursued by the Statistical
Office of the United Nations Secretariat, as it draws upon evolving experience in this regard.
(b)
Promotion of global use of indicators of sustainable development
40.7
Relevant organs and organizations of the United Nations system, in
Agenda-21: Ch. 40, Information for decision-making
Page 3
cooperation with other international governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental
organizations, should use a suitable set of sustainable development indicators and indicators
related to areas outside of national jurisdiction, such as the high seas, the upper atmosphere
and outer space. The organs and organizations of the United Nations system, in coordination
with other relevant international organizations, could provide recommendations for
harmonized development of indicators at the national, regional and global levels, and for
incorporation of a suitable set of these indicators in common, regularly updated, and widely
accessible reports and databases, for use at the international level, subject to national
sovereignty considerations.
(c)
Improvement of data collection and use
40.8
Countries and, upon request, international organizations should carry out
inventories of environmental, resource and developmental data, based on national/global
priorities for sustainable development management. They should determine the gaps and
organize activities to fill those gaps. Within the organs and organizations of the United
Nations system and relevant international organizations, data-collection activities, including
those of Earthwatch and World Weather Watch, need to be strengthened, especially in the
areas of urban air, freshwater, land resources (including forests and rangelands),
desertification, other habitats, soil degradation, biodiversity, the high seas and the upper
atmosphere. Countries and international organizations should make use of new techniques
of data collection, including satellite-based remote sensing. In addition to the strengthening
of existing development-related data collection, special attention needs to be paid to such
areas as demographic factors, urbanization, poverty, health and rights of access to resources,
as well as special groups, including women, indigenous peoples, youth, children and the
disabled, and their relationships with environment issues.
(d)
Improvement of methods of data assessment and analysis
40.9
Relevant international organizations should develop practical recommendations
for coordinated, harmonized collection and assessment of data at the national and
international levels. National and international data and information centres should set up
continuous and accurate data-collection systems and make use of geographic information
systems, expert systems, models and a variety of other techniques for the assessment and
analysis of data. These steps will be particularly relevant, as large quantities of data from
satellite sources will need to be processed in the future. Developed countries and
international organizations, as well as the private sector, should cooperate, in particular with
developing countries, upon request, to facilitate their acquiring these technologies and this
know-how.
(e)
Establishment of a comprehensive information framework
40.10
Governments should consider undertaking the necessary institutional changes
at the national level to achieve the integration of environmental and developmental
information. At the international level, environmental assessment activities need to be
strengthened and coordinated with efforts to assess development trends.
Agenda-21: Ch. 40, Information for decision-making
Page 4
(f)
Strengthening of the capacity for traditional information
40.11
Countries, with the cooperation of international organizations, should establish
supporting mechanisms to provide local communities and resource users with the information
and know-how they need to manage their environment and resources sustainably, applying
traditional and indigenous knowledge and approaches when appropriate. This is particularly
relevant for rural and urban populations and indigenous, women's and youth groups.
Means of implementation
[(a)
Finance and cost evaluation**
40.12
Financing will have to be increased, particularly for environmental data
gathering/assessment at both the national and international levels [, although some
redeployment and greater efficiency in the use of existing funds may be possible by better
targeting information needs and associated data-collection and assessment activities].]
[40.13
The activities for data collection and assessments are expected to require
international funding on the order of $1.5 billion per year for global activities, $300 million
per year for accelerated development efforts and $70 million per year for international
activities. In other chapters, the funding requirements of monitoring and assessment
activities have been costed in other programme areas, except for that of the setting up of
national monitoring centres in developing countries, for which external costs are estimated
to be up to $20 million per year, depending on the number of such centres established.]
(b)
Institutional means
40.14
Institutional capacity to integrate environment and development and to develop
relevant indicators is lacking at both the national and international levels. Existing
institutions and programmes such as the Global Environmental Monitoring System (GEMS)
and the Global Resource Information Database (GRID) within the United Nations
Environment Programme and different entities within the systemwide Earthwatch will need
to be considerably strengthened. Earthwatch has been an essential element for
environment-related data. While programmes related to development data exist in a number
of agencies, there is insufficient coordination between them. The activities related to
development data of agencies and institutions of the United Nations system should be more
effectively coordinated perhaps through an equivalent and complementary "Development
Watch", which with the existing Earthwatch should be coordinated through an appropriate
office within the United Nations to ensure the full integration of environment and
development concerns.
(c)
Scientific and technological means
40.15
Regarding [transfer of [safe and sound] technology]/[technology cooperation],
with the rapid evolution of data-collection and information technologies it is necessary to
develop guidelines and mechanisms for the rapid and continuous transfer of those
technologies, particularly to developing countries [on concessional and preferential terms] and
Agenda-21: Ch. 40, Information for decision-making
Page 5
for the training of personnel in their utilization.
(d)
Human resources development
40.16
International cooperation for training in all areas and at all levels will be
required, particularly in developing countries. That training will have to include technical
training of those involved in data collection, assessment and transformation, as well as
assistance to decision makers concerning how to use such information.
(e)
Capacity-building
40.17
All countries, particularly developing countries, with the support of
international cooperation, should strengthen their capacity to collect, store, organize, assess
and use data in decision-making more effectively.
B. Improving information availability
Basis for action
40.18
There already exists a wealth of data and information that could be used for
sustainable development management. Finding the appropriate information at the required
time and at the relevant scale of aggregation is a difficult task.
40.19
Information within many countries is not adequately managed, because of
shortages of financial resources and trained manpower, lack of awareness of the value and
availability of such information and other immediate or pressing problems, especially in
developing countries. Even where information is available, it may not be easily accessible,
either because of the lack of technology for effective access or because of associated costs,
especially for information held outside the country and available commercially.
Objectives
40.20
Existing national and international mechanisms of information processing and
exchange, and of related technical assistance, should be strengthened to ensure effective and
equitable availability of information generated at the local, provincial, national and
international levels, subject to national sovereignty and relevant intellectual property rights.
40.21
National capacities should be strengthened, as well as capacities within
Governments, non-governmental organizations and the private sector, in information handling
and communication, particularly within developing countries.
40.22
Full participation of, in particular, developing countries should be ensured in
any international scheme under the organs and organizations of the United Nations system
for the collection. analysis and use of data and information.
Activities
Agenda-21: Ch. 40, Information for decision-making
Page 6
(a)
Production of information usable for decision-making
40.23
Countries and international organizations should review and strengthen
information systems and services in sectors related to sustainable development, at the local,
provincial, national and international levels. Special emphasis should be placed on the
transformation of existing information into forms more useful for decision-making and on
targeting information at different user groups. Mechanisms should be strengthened or
established for transforming scientific and socio-economic assessments into information
suitable for both planning and public information. Electronic and non-electronic formats
should be used.
(b)
Establishment of standards and methods for handling information
40.24
Governments should consider supporting the efforts of governmental as well
as non-governmental organizations to develop mechanisms for efficient and harmonized
exchange of information at the local, national, provincial and international levels, including
revision and establishment of data, access and dissemination formats, and communication
interfaces.
(c)
Development of documentation about information
40.25
The organs and organizations of the United Nations system, as well as other
governmental and non-governmental organizations, should document and share information
about the sources of available information in their respective organizations. Existing
programmes, such as those of the Advisory Committee for the Coordination of Information
Systems (ACCIS) and the International Environmental Information System (INFOTERRA),
should be reviewed and strengthened as required. Networking and coordinating mechanisms
should be encouraged between the wide variety of other actors, including arrangements with
non-governmental organizations for information sharing and donor activities for sharing
information on sustainable development projects. The private sector should be encouraged
to strengthen the mechanisms of sharing its experience and information on sustainable
development.
(d)
Establishment and strengthening of electronic networking capabilities
40.26
Countries, international organizations, including organs and organizations of
the United Nations system, and non-governmental organizations should exploit various
initiatives for electronic links to support information sharing; to provide access to databases
and other information sources; to facilitate communication for meeting broader objectives,
such as the implementation of Agenda 21; to facilitate intergovernmental negotiations; to
monitor conventions and sustainable development efforts; to transmit environmental alerts;
and to transfer technical data. These organizations should also facilitate the linkage of
different electronic networks and the use of appropriate standards and communication
protocols for the transparent interchange of electronic communications. Where necessary,
new technology should be developed and its use encouraged to permit participation of those
not served at present by existing infrastructure and methods. Mechanisms should also be
established to carry out the necessary transfer of information to and from non-electronic
Agenda-21: Ch. 40, Information for decision-making
Page 7
systems to ensure the involvement of those not able to participate in this way.
(e)
Making use of commercial information sources
40.27
Countries and international organizations should consider undertaking surveys
of information available in the private sector on sustainable development and of present
dissemination arrangements to determine gaps and how those gaps could be filled by
commercial or quasi-commercial activity, particularly activities in and/or involving
developing countries where feasible. Whenever economic or other constraints on supplying
and accessing information arise, particularly in developing countries, innovative schemes for
subsidizing such information-related access or removing the non-economic constraints should
be considered.
Means of implementation
[(a)
Finance and cost evaluation**
40.28
This programme area involves strengthening existing country and international
programmes. About $130 million per year will be needed for technical cooperation activities
with and relating to developing countries and up to $35 million per year for strengthening
activities in international organizations.]
(b)
Institutional means
40.29
The institutional implications of this programme concern mostly the
strengthening of already existing institutions, as well as the strengthening of cooperation with
non-governmental organizations, and need to be consistent with the overall decisions on
institutions made by the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development.
(c)
Capacity-building
40.30
Developed countries and relevant international organizations should cooperate,
in particular with developing countries, to expand their capacity to receive, store and
retrieve, contribute, disseminate, use and provide appropriate public access to relevant
environmental and developmental information, by providing technology and training to
establish local information services and by supporting partnership and cooperative
arrangements between countries and on the regional or subregional level.
(d)
Scientific and technological means
40.31
Developed countries and relevant international organizations should support
research and development in hardware, software and other aspects of information technology,
in particular in developing countries, appropriate to their operations, national needs and
environmental contexts.
Agenda-21: Ch. 40, Information for decision-making
Page 8
**/
These paragraphs contain matters relating to means of implementation, including cost
estimates, which are indicative secretariat figures provided pursuant to decision
A/CONF.151/PC/L49. They remain bracketed as they have not been negotiated.