http://www.igc.apc.org/habitat/csd-97/ngosug.html
towards earth summit two


NGO Suggestions for the
Proposed Outcome of the Special Session




NGO Suggestions to the
Proposed Outcome of the Special Session
(This draft just includes the text still open for negotiations)


C. Implementation in areas requiring urgent action

1. Integration of economic, social and environmental objectives

2. Sectors and Issues

C. Implementation in areas requiring urgent action

16. Agenda 21 and the principles contained in the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development established a comprehensive approach to the achievement of sustainable development. While it is the primary responsibility of national Governments to achieve the economic, social and environmental objectives of Agenda 21, it is essential that international cooperation be reactivated and intensified, recognizing, inter alia, the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities as stated in Principle 7 of the Rio Declaration. This requires mobilization of stronger political will and invigoration of a genuine new global partnership, taking into account the special needs and priorities of developing countries. That approach remains as relevant and as urgently needed as ever. It is clear from the assessment above that, although progress has been made in some areas, a major new effort will be required to achieve the goals established at UNCED [particularly][including] in the area of cross-sectoral matters where implementation is yet to be achieved. The proposals set out below outline strategies for accelerating progress towards sustainable development. Sections 1, 2 and 3 are equally important, and they must be considered and implemented in a balanced and integrated way.

1. Integration of economic, social and environmental objectives

17. There is a mutually reinforcing relationship between economic, social and environmental objectives. [AMEND & RETAIN: (DELETE: SUSTAINED {wc}) Economic growth (ADD: IN THE CONTEXT OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT {wc}) is essential to the economic and social development of all countries, in particular developing countries.] Growth can foster development only if its benefits are fully shared. It must therefore also be guided by equity, justice, social and environmental considerations. Development, in turn, must involve measures that improve the human condition and the quality of [RETAIN & AMEND;: (ADD: AS REITERATED IN THE RIO, VIENNA, BEIJING, CAIRO, ISTANBUL AND ROME AGENDAS {hr}) Democracy, respect for all human rights and fundamental freedoms, (ADD: RECOGNIZING THAT WOMEN'S RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS {wc},) transparent and accountable governance in all sectors of the society, as well as the effective participation by civil society, are indispensable foundations for the realization of sustainable development. {wc}]

18. (b) In integrating economic, social and environmental objectives, it is important that a broad package of policy instruments, including regulation, economic instruments, internalization of environmental costs in market prices, environmental and social impact analysis and information, be worked out in the light of country-specific conditions to ensure that integrated approaches are effective and cost-efficient. To this end, a transparent and participatory process should be promoted. This will require the involvement of national Legislative Assemblies, as well as all actors of civil society, including youth and indigenous people [RETAIN: s {UNED-UK} ADD: AND THE EDUCATION COMMUNITY {ed}], to complement the Governments' efforts for sustainable development. In particular, the empowerment, full and equal participation of women in all spheres of society, including participation in the decision-making process, is central to all effort to achieve such development.

18. [(c) AMEND & RETAIN: The implementation of policies aiming at sustainable development, including the protection of the environment, may enhance the opportunities for job creation - while MEASURING AND VALUING UNWAGED WORK AND {wc} protecting basic worker rights AND FAMILY VISIBILITY {fam} - thus helping to achieve the fundamental goal of eradicating poverty.]

[EU proposed sentence on environment to be added]

[Enabling international economic environment]

20. To foster a dynamic and enabling international economic environment favourable to all countries is in the interest of all countries. And issues, including environmental issues, which bear on the international economic environment can be approached effectively only through a constructive dialogue and genuine partnership on the basis of mutuality of interests and benefits and, [DELETE: in regard to environmental issues {wc}] inter alia, the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities as stated in principle 7 of the Rio Declaration.

Eradicating Poverty

21. [(a bis)* (AMEND & RETAIN: Ensuring access of people living in poverty to micro-credit BY COMMITTING TO THE GOAL OF RAISING $21.7 BILLION TO REACH 100 MILLION OF THE WORLD'S POOREST WOMEN AND THEIR FAMILIES BY THE YEAR 2005 {wc}) in order to enable them to undertake micro-enterprises, which would in turn generate self-employment and contribute to achieving empowerment, especially of women, and encouraging strengthening and establishment of institutions supportive of micro-lending programmes.]

(* This sub-paragraph was not negotiated, but was included at the request of Bangladesh).

21. (d) people living in poverty and their organizations should be empowered by involving them fully in the implementation [RETAIN:, monitoring and assessment {wc}] of strategies and programmes for poverty eradication and community development [AMEND & RETAIN: , and ensuring that these programmes reflect their priorities and perceptions OF THOSE MOST AFFECTED, BEGINNING WITH WOMEN AND CHILDREN WHO HAVE BEEN AND ARE DISCRIMINATED AGAINST BECAUSE OF RACE AND/OR ECONOMIC BACKGROUND {wc};]

21. (e) addressing the disproportionate impact of poverty on women, in particular by removing legislative, policy, administrative and customary barriers to women's equal access to productive resources and services, including access to and control over land and other forms of property, credit, including micro-credit, inheritance, education, information, health care and technology. In this regard, full implementation of the Beijing Platform for Action [DELETE: consistent with the report of the Fourth International Conference on Women {wc}] is essential;

Add new Para 21 (f).:

(RECOGNIZING THE CENTRAL ROLE OF THE FAMILY IN ENHANCING SOCIAL INTEGRATION, AS AGREED UPON IN COMMITMENT FOUR OF THE COPENHAGEN DECLARATION, AND PROMOTING AN ENABLING ENVIRONMENT BASED ON A "PEOPLE CENTERED" APPROACH TO "SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT BASED ON THE PRINCIPLES, GOALS AND COMMITMENTS" OF THE COPENHAGEN DECLARATION AND THOSE OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON POPULATION AND DEVELOPMENT). {fam}

Changing consumption and production patterns

22. Unsustainable patterns of production and consumption, particularly in the industrialized countries, are identified in Agenda 21 as the major cause of continued deterioration of the global environment. [(RETAIN: While unsustainable PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION {spc} patterns in the industrialized countries AND IN SOME PARTS OF THE DEVELOPING COUNTRIES {spc} continue to aggravate the threats to the environment, particularly excessive pollution from greenhouse gases, there still remain huge difficulties for developing countries in meeting basic CONSUMPTION {spc} needs such as food, health care, shelter and education for people. {wc})] [RETAIN: Similar patterns are emerging in the higher income groups in some developing countries. {wc}] Consistent with Agenda 21, the development and further elaboration of national policies and strategies, particularly in industrialized countries, are needed to encourage changes in unsustainable consumption and production patterns, while strengthening, as appropriate, international approaches [RETAIN: and policies {wc}] that promote sustainable consumption patterns on the basis of the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, applying the polluter pays principle, encouraging producer responsibility and greater consumer awareness. Eco-efficiency, cost internalization and product policies are also important tools for making consumption and production patterns more sustainable. Actions in that area should focus on:

22. (a) promoting measures to internalize environmental costs and benefits in the price of goods and services, while seeking to avoid potential negative effects for market access by developing countries, particularly with a view to encouraging the use of environmentally preferable products and commodities [AMEND AND RETAIN: and moving towards pricing natural AND SOCIAL {wc} resources in a way that reflects full costs, TO COMMUNITIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT, INCLUDING THE BURDEN OF HEALTH CARE AND OTHER UNWAGED WORK IMPOSED PRIMARILY ON WOMEN {wc} AND BY TAX DISTRIBUTIVE EFFECTS. {spc}] Governments should consider shifting the burden of taxation onto unsustainable patterns of production and consumption; it is of vital importance to achieve such an internalization of environmental costs. Such tax reforms should include a socially responsible process of reduction and elimination of subsidies to environmentally harmful activities;

ADD to 22(a): [and moving towards pricing natural resources in a way that reflects full costs]

22. (b) [RETAIN: taking {wc & spc;}] [DELETE: encouraging {wc & spc;}] measures aimed at promoting the role of business in shaping more sustainable patterns of consumption [by publishing EXTERNALLY VERIFIED {anped} environmental and social audits on its own activities and IMPACT ASSESSMENT STUDIES, WHICH MEASURE AND VALUE THEIR FULL ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL COSTS, {wc} and] by acting as an agent of change in the market, and by virtue of its role as a major consumer of goods and services;

22. (c) developing core indicators to monitor critical trends in consumption and production patterns [particularly in the industrialized countries AND WHICH SHOULD INCLUDE MEASURING AND VALUING UNWAGED WORK AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES PRESENTLY ATTRIBUTED No ECONOMIC VALUE, SUCH AS ACCESS TO CLEAN, SAFE AND FREE WATER. {wc}];

22. (f) promoting international and national [RETAIN: targets, goals or action {wc & spc;}] programmes for energy and material efficiency with timetables for their implementation, as appropriate. In this regard, attention should be given to studies which propose to improve the efficiency of resource use [RETAIN: and consider a ten-fold improvement in resource productivity in the long term {wc}.] [RETAIN: As an intermediate step, an increase in resource productivity, for example, by a factor 4 in the next two or three decades seems to be within reach. {wc}] Further research is required to study the feasibility of these goals and the practical measures needed for their implementation. Industrialized countries will have a special responsibility and must take the lead in this respect. The CSD should consider this initiative in the coming years to explore the necessary policies and measures to implement eco-efficiency. [RETAIN & AMEND:, and for this purpose, adopting measures aimed at assisting developing countries to improve energy and material efficiency AND SUFFICIENCY {spc} through the promotion of their endogenous capacity building and SOCIAL AND {spc} economic development with enhanced and effective international support; {wc}]

22. (g) encouraging Governments to take the lead in changing consumption patterns by improving their own environmental performance with action-oriented policies and goals on procurement, the management of public facilities and the further integration of environmental concerns into national policy making. [RETAIN:, with full cooperation of developed countries who are called upon to take the lead in changing consumption patterns; {wc}]

22. (h) encouraging media, advertising and marketing sectors to help shape sustainable consumption [RETAIN: and production {wc}] patterns;

22. (j) promoting measures favouring eco-efficiency; however, developed countries should pay special attention to the needs of developing countries, in particular encouraging positive impacts, and [DELETE: seeking to avoid {wc}] [RETAIN: avoiding {wc}] negative impacts on export opportunities and market access for developing countries [RETAIN: and, as appropriate, for countries with economies in transition; {wc}]*

Making trade and environment mutually supportive

23. In order to accelerate economic growth, poverty eradication and environmental protection, particularly in developing countries, there is a need to establish macroeconomic conditions in both developed and developing countries that favour the development of instruments and structures enabling all countries, in particular developing countries, to benefit from globalization. International cooperation and support for capacity-building in trade, environment and development should be strengthened through renewed system-wide efforts, and with greater responsiveness to sustainable development objectives, in the United Nations, the World Trade Organization (WTO), the Bretton Woods institutions, and by national governments. There should be a balanced and integrated approach to trade and sustainable development, based on a combination of trade liberalization, economic development and environmental protection. Trade obstacles should be removed with a view to contributing to achieving more efficient use of the earth's natural resources in both economic and environmental terms. Trade liberalization should be accompanied by environmental and resource management policies in order to realize its full potential contribution to improved environmental protection and the promotion of sustainable development through more efficient allocation and use of resources. The multilateral trading system should have the capacity to further integrate environmental considerations and enhance its contribution to sustainable development, without undermining its open, equitable and non-discriminatory character. The special and differential treatment for developing countries, especially the least developed countries, and the other commitments of the Uruguay Round should be fully implemented in order to enable these countries to benefit from the international trading system, while conserving the environment. There is a need for continuing the elimination of discriminatory a practices in international trade relations, [RETAIN: particularly those affecting developing countries and countries with economies in transition. {wc}] In order to make trade, environment and development mutually supportive, measures need to be taken to ensure the transparency in the use of trade measures related to the environment, and should address the root causes of environmental degradation so as not to result in disguised barriers to trade. Account should be taken of the fact that environmental standards valid for developed countries may have unwarranted social and economic costs in other countries, in particular developing countries. International cooperation is needed and unilateralism should be avoided.

The following actions are required:

23. (b) promotion of an open, non-discriminatory, rule-based, equitable, secure, transparent and predictable multilateral trading system. In this context, effective measures are called for to achieve the complete integration of developing countries and countries with economies in transition into the world economy and the new international trading system. In this connection, there is a need to promote the universality of WTO and to facilitate the accession in a mutually beneficial way of applying developing countries and countries with economies in transition to the Organization. Actions should be taken to maximize the opportunities and to minimize the difficulties of developing countries, including the net food-importing ones, especially the least developed countries, and of the countries with economies in transition, in adjusting to the changes introduced by the Uruguay Round. [AMEND & RETAIN: Sustainable development and trade liberalization should be mutually supportive. BY EVALUATING THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS OF THE URUGUAY ROUND GATT AGREEMENT AND RECONCILING WTO RULE-MAKING AND GLOBAL TRADE PRACTICES WITH THE POST-RIO AGENDA. {wc}] The relationship between multilateral environmental agreements and the WTO rules should be clarified;

23. (f) cooperation and coordination between UNCTAD, UNIDO, WTO, UNEP and other relevant institutions should be strengthened on various issues including (i) the role of positive measures in multilateral agreements as part of a package of measures including in certain cases, trade measures; (ii) the special conditions and needs of small and medium-sized enterprises in the trade and environment interface, (iii) trade and environment issues at the regional and sub-regional levels, including in the context of regional economic and trade as well as environmental agreements; (iv) environment and sustainable development issues in the context of domestic and foreign direct investment, including a possible multilateral framework on investment; any future agreement on investment liberalization should be consistent with the objectives of sustainable development; *

(* India and Indonesia, endorsed by the G77+China, reserved their position on this paragraph and wished the fact to be recorded in the final report of the meeting).

23. [(f bis)* (RETAIN: the promotion of effective dialogue with major groups (AMEND & RETAIN including LOCAL AUTHORITIES AND NGOs {ICLEI}) within the WTO/CTE. {wc & spc;}]

(* This sentence was not negotiated, but was included at the request of Australia).

23. [(h) RETAIN: action in the WTO to ensure that trade rules do not prevent or undermine effective and legitimate environmental policies and measures at the international, regional (DELETE: and {ICLEI}) national (ADD: AND LOCAL {ICLEI}) levels, including further steps to ensure that WTO rules pay due respect to the decisions of governments acting jointly in negotiating multilateral environmental agreements and that they support the effective implementation of the different measures provided for in the framework of such agreements. {wc}]

Population

24. The impact in the relationship between economic growth, poverty, employment, environment and sustainable development has become a major concern. There is a need to recognize the critical linkages between demographic trends and factors and sustainable development. The current decline in population growth rates must be further promoted through national and international policies that promote economic development, social development, environmental protection, poverty eradication, particularly the further expansion of basic education, with full and equal access for girls and women, and health care, including [AMEND & RETAIN: reproductive health care, (DELETE: which covers {wc}) [RETAIN: including {wc}] both family planning and sexual health, consistent with the (DELETE report of the {wc}) International Conference on Population and Development [Endnote 9]] [DELETE: as well as family and maternal health care {wc}].

Health

25. The goals of sustainable development cannot be achieved when a high proportion of the population is afflicted with debilitating illnesses. An overriding goal for the future is to implement the Health for All programme [Endnote 10] and to enable all people, particularly the world's poor, to achieve a higher level of health and well-being, and to improve their economic productivity and social potential. Protecting children from environmental health threats and in is particularly urgent since children are more susceptible than adults to those threats. Top priority should be attached to supporting the efforts on the part of countries, particularly developing countries, and international organizations, to eradicate the major infectious diseases, especially malaria, which is on the increase, and to the improvement and expansion of basic health and sanitation services and the provision of safe drinking water. It is also important to reduce indigenous cases of vaccine-preventable diseases through the promotion of widespread immunization programs, promote accelerated research and vaccine development and reduce the transmission of other major infectious diseases, such as dengue fever, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS. [AMEND & RETAIN: Given the devastating and irreparable INTELLECTUAL {wc} effects that lead poisoning has on children, it is important to continue an emphasis on eliminating INDUSTRIAL LEAD POLLUTION AND {wc} lead from gasoline AND PAINT {wc} worldwide.] Strategies at regional, national and local levels for reducing the potential risk due to ambient and indoor air pollution should be developed, bearing in mind their serious impacts on human health, [AMEND & RETAIN: including strategies to (DELETE: make parents, families and communities aware {wc}ADD: RAISE AWARENESS {wc}) (ADD: REDUCE NOXIOUS EMISSIONS FROM URBAN TRANSPORTATION SECTOR AND {ICLEI}) of the adverse environmental health impacts of tobacco]. The clear linkage between health and environment needs to be emphasized and the lack of information on the impact of environmental pollution on health should be addressed. Health issues should be fully integrated into national and sub-national sustainable development plans, and should be incorporated into project and programme development as a component of environmental impact assessments. Important to efforts at national levels is international cooperation in disease prevention, early warning, surveillance, reporting, training and research, and treatment.

2. Sectors and Issues

29. *(Agreed) Considering the urgent need for action in the field of freshwater, and building on existing principles and instruments, arrangements, programmes of action an of water, governments call for a dialogue under the aegis of the CSD, beginning at its sixth session, aimed at building a consensus on the necessary actions and in particular, on the means of implementation and tangible results, in order to consider initiating a strategic approach for the implementation of all aspects of the sustainable use of freshwater for social and economic purposes including, inter alia, safe drinking water and sanitation, water for irrigation, recycling, wastewater management and the important role it plays in natural ecosystems. This inter-governmental process will only be fully fruitful if there is a proven commitment by the international community for the provision of new and additional financial resources for the goals of this initiative.

(* Turkey and Cuba reserved their position on this paragraph, and wished the fact to be noted in the final report of the meeting.)

Oceans and seas

30. (a)* (Agreed) all Governments to ratify or to accede to the relevant agreements as soon as possible and to implement effectively such agreements as well as relevant voluntary instruments;

(* Turkey reserved its position on this sub-paragraph, and wished the fact to be noted in the final report of the meeting).

Forests

33. (d) further clarification of all issues arising from the IPF process, (DELETE: in particular {for}) (REPLACE WITH: INCLUDING {for}) international cooperation in financial assistance and technology transfer, (DELETE: and trade and environment in relation to forest products and services {for}) [RETAIN & AMEND: ADDRESSING THE UNDERLYING CAUSES OF FOREST LOSS AND DEGRADATION, as well as traditional forest related knowledge {for}];

[34. To [help] achieve this and to facilitate and promote the implementation of the proposals for action in the IPF report the following options are proposed:

34. (a) to continue the intergovernmental policy dialogue on forests through the establishment of an ad-hoc, open-ended Intergovernmental Forum on Forests under the auspices of the UN CSD, with a focused and time limited mandate, charged with, inter-alia, reviewing, (DELETE: monitoring {for}) and reporting on progress in the management, conservation and sustainable development of all types of forests, promoting and (FACILITATING {for}) (DELETE: monitoring {for}) the implementation of the Panel's proposals for action, (REPORTING ANNUALLY TO THE CSD, {for}) and either:

(i) on that basis, considering and advising on the need for other arrangements and mechanisms, including legal arrangements covering all types of forests, and reporting on these matters to the CSD (IN THE YEAR 2000 {for}) (DELETE: at the appropriate time in its work programme, which has yet to be defined; {for}) and/or

NGOs OPPOSE (ii) and (iii) {for}

(ii) preparing the basis and building the necessary consensus for a decision to negotiate and elaborate possible elements of a legally binding instrument, and to report on its work on the latter topic to the CSD in the year 1999.

OR

(b) to carry forward intergovernmental policy action on forests through the establishment, as soon as possible, under the authority of the UN General Assembly, of an Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) on a legally binding instrument on all types of forest, with a focused and time limited mandate.

OR

[Alternative Paragraph 34] to continue intergovernmental policy dialogue on forests through the establishment of an ad hoc open-ended Intergovernmental Forum on Forests under the aegis of the UNCSD, with a focused and time limited mandate; charged with promoting and facilitating the implementation of the Panel's proposals for action and reporting on progress in the management, conservation and sustainable development of all types of forests; the consideration of matters left pending by the IPF, in particular, trade in forest products and services and the environment; transfer of technology, and the need for financial resources; as well as to consider the need for, and to identify possible elements of arrangements and mechanisms or a legally binding instrument. The Forum will report on its work to the CSD in 1999 for appropriate action.]

[Note: Terms of Reference for an appropriate intergovernmental process will need to be developed].

Energy

35. Energy is essential to economic and social development and improved quality of life. However,terns of production, distribution and use of energy are crucial. Fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas) will continue to dominate the energy supply situation for many years to come in most developed and developing countries. What is required then is to reduce the environmental impact of their continued development, (THE EFFICIENCY OF THEIR USE {ICLEI}) and to reduce local health hazards and environmental pollution through enhanced international cooperation [notably in the provision of concessional finance for capacity development and transfer of the relevant technology (AND IN CONJUNCTION WITH REDUCING THE GROWTH OF ENERGY DEMAND AT POINT OF CONSUMPTION THROUGH, FOR EXAMPLE, ENCOURAGING MASS TRANSIT FOR PASSENGERS AND FREIGHT AND PROMOTING NON-MOTORIZED TRAVEL {tc}) (ADD: , AND SUPPORT FOR THE DISSEMINATION OF NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES FOR SMALL SCALE USE IN HOUSEHOLDS AND INCOME GENERATING ACTIVITIES, PARTICULARLY FOR THE BENEFIT OF WOMEN WHO BEAR THE BRUNT OF THE RURAL ENERGY CRISIS.]

39. Therefore there is a need for:

39. [(a) AMEND & RETAIN: a shift towards sustainable patterns of production, distribution and use. This should be taken up by elaborating a common strategy for a sustainable energy future. In this way, governments should commit themselves to develop and promote sustainable energy policies, involving all actors, INCLUDING PEOPLE LIVING IN POVERTY ESPECIALLY RURAL WOMEN {wc}. To advance this work at the intergovernmental level the CSD should devote one of its sessions in the near future to the establishment of such a common strategy. This dedicated session should be thoroughly prepared by an inter-sessional high-level forum of the CSD on environment and energy. The United Nations Committee on New and Renewable Sources of Energy and on Energy for Development should be involved.]

OR

39. [(a) movement towards sustainable patterns of production, distribution and use of energy. To advance this work at the intergovernmental level, the CSD will discuss at its [9th] session, energy issues. Noting the vital role of energy in continuation of sustainable economic growth, especially for developing countries, in particular those countries that play a key role in the world's energy supply, and recognizing the complexities and interdependencies inherent in addressing energy issues within the context of sustainable development, preparations for this meeting should take place over a longer time frame in an open-ended intergovernmental group of experts on energy and sustainable development to be held in conjunction with CSD intersessional meetings. In line with the objectives of Agenda 21, the meeting of the CSD should contribute to a sustainable energy future for all.]

39. (d) evolving [RETAIN: time-bound commitments for {wc}] transfer of relevant technology to developing countries and economies in transition so as to enable them to increase the use of renewable energy sources and cleaner fossil fuels and to improve efficiency in energy production, distribution and use; and countries to systematically increase the use of renewable energy sources according to their specific social, economic, natural, geographical and climatic conditions and cleaner fuel technologies, including fossil fuel technologies, and to improve efficiency in energy production, distribution and use and in other industrial production processes that are intensive users of energy;

39. (f) in the context of fossil fuels, encouraging further research, development, application and transfer of technology, [(DELETE {en} preferably] of a cleaner and more efficient nature, through effective international support;

39. [(g) (RETAIN {ICLEI}) Governments and the private sector be encouraged to move towards energy pricing that better reflects economic, social and environmental costs and benefits; including the reduction, and the gradual elimination, of subsidies for energy production and consumption that inhibit sustainable development. Such policies should take fully into account the specific needs and conditions of developing countries [, while respecting the agreed special and differentiated treatment of developing countries, particularly least developing countries, in WTO, on the question of subsidies];]

39. [(g) REPLACE {en} above with GOVERNMENTS AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR TO MOVE TOWARDS ENERGY PRICING THAT REFLECTS FULL ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL COSTS AND BENEFITS, INCLUDING THE REDUCTION, AND GRADUAL ELIMINATION OVER TEN YEARS, OF ENVIRONMENTALLY-DAMAGING SUBSIDIES FOR ENERGY PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION, ESPECIALLY FOR FOSSIL FUELS AND NUCLEAR ENERGY. DEVELOPING COUNTRIES SHOULD BE PROVIDED CONCESSIONAL FINANCING AND TRANSFER OF RELEVANT TECHNOLOGY BY THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY TO ASSIST THEM IN ACHIEVING SUCH POLICIES. LEAST DEVELOPING COUNTRIES, AND ALL LOW-INCOME COMMUNITIES AND INDIVIDUALS, SHOULD BE DIRECTLY COMPENSATED WHEN NECESSARY.

39. [(h) development of a reference framework for better coordination of (SUSTAINABLE {en}) energy- (AND TRANSPORT {tc}) related activities within the United Nations system.]

(e)

Transport

40. [(e) an initiative to prepare, at the international level, a tax on aviation fuel;]

40. [(f) accelerating the phasing out of the use of leaded gasoline as soon as possible, in pursuit of the objectives of reducing the severe impacts of human exposure to lead as stated in the Report of the Second Session of the Commission on Sustainable Development, 1994, para. 169, and to that end explore ways in which developing countries might be given technological and economic assistance to make the necessary transition;]

40. [(g) (RETAIN & AMEND (IN RECOGNITION THAT CURRENT TRANSPORT TRENDS ARE UNSUSTAINABLE (a) AND BEARING IN MIND THAT THE STATE OF THE GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT CONTINUES TO DETERIORATE (b) URGENT ACTION IS NEEDED FOR THE {tc}) promotion of guidelines (AND LOCAL PILOT PROGRAMMES {ICLEI}) (AND FINANCIAL INCENTIVES {tc}) for environmentally friendly transport, (AND LAND USE PATTERNS, WHICH EMBODY THE PRINCIPLES OF THE RIO AGREEMENT AND THE COMMITMENTS ENTERED INTO AT HABITAT II (c) TO ADVANCE THIS WORK AT THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL LEVEL THE CSD SHOULD DEVOTE ONE OF ITS SESSIONS IN THE NEAR FUTURE TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF SUCH GUIDELINES AND A COMMON STRATEGY. THIS DEDICATED SESSION SHOULD BE PREPARED IN ADVANCE BY THE INTER-SESSIONAL FORUM OF THE CSD ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND TRANSPORT, AND MUST REFLECT AND SYNTHESIZE THE MOST UP TO DATE AGREEMENT ON CLIMATE CHANGE, ATMOSPHERE, ENERGY CONSUMPTION, CONSERVATION AND EMISSIONS AGREED AT THE TIME {tc}) (DELETE: and actions for reducing vehicle emissions of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, particulate matter and volatile organic compounds, as soon as possible, preferably within the next ten years {tc});]

Atmosphere

41. Ensuring that the global climate and atmosphere is not further damaged with irreversible consequences for future generations requires political will and concerted efforts by the international community in accordance with the principles enshrined in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The UNFCCC has taken some first steps to deal with the global problem of climate change. Despite the adoption of the UNFCCC, emission and concentration of greenhouse gases (GHGs) continue to rise, even as scientific evidence assembled by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and other relevant bodies continues to diminish the uncertainties and points ever more strongly to the severe risk of global climate change.[So far, insufficient progress has been made by developed countries in meeting their [aim to return GHG emissions to 1990 levels by the year 2000]]. It is recognized in the Berlin Mandate [Endnote 11] that the [commitments under Article 4.2 a and b of the UNFCCC] [UNFCCC's commitments] are inadequate to meet the objectives of the Convention, and therefore there is a need to strengthen these commitments. It is most important that the third meeting of the Conference of Parties to the Convention (COP3), to be held at Kyoto, Japan, later in 1997, adopt a protocol or other legal instrument that fully encompasses the Berlin Mandate. The Geneva Ministerial Declaration which was noted, without formal adoption, but which received majority support among min heads of delegation attending the second Conference of the Parties, also called, inter alia, for acceleration of negotiations on the text of a legally binding protocol or another legal instrument.

[42. Member States are urged to agree on a satisfactory result of these negotiations at the third session of the Conference of the Parties, scheduled to be held in Kyoto in December 1997;]

OR

[42. At COP3, Member States are urged to adopt the strongest possible agreement, including legally binding budgets or targets for developed nations; maximum flexibility in reaching such budgets or targets; and participation of all countries in taking meaningful actions to address the problem;]

OR

[42. COP3 should call upon the industrialized world, reaffirming the Berlin Mandate and the COP2 Ministerial Declaration, to agree on quantified, legally-binding objectives for emission limitation and significant overall reduction of GHGs within specified time frames such as 2005, 2010 and 2020, with respect to their anthropogenic emissions by sources and removals by sinks of GHGs not controlled by the Montreal Protocol, and to agree to elaborate policies and measures.]

OR

[42. At COP3, a legally binding commitment for a 15% reduction of the emissions of CO2, CH4 and N2O together below the 1990 level by the year 2010 must be agreed upon, as well as mandatory and recommended policies and measures, including harmonized ones, to ensure that this target is achieved.]

OR

[42. RETAIN The Third Conference of the Parties should call upon the industrialized world to agree on a legally binding commitment for a 20% reduction of the emissions of CO2 below the 1990 level by the year 2005. Other greenhouse gas emissions will also be covered by this instrument as well as coordinated policies and measures to ensure that this target is achieved. {ICLEI} & {en}]

Radioactive wastes*

(* The Russian Federation reserved its position on this section, and wished the fact to be noted in the final report of the meeting.)

49. Radioactive wastes can have very serious environmental and human health impacts over long periods of time. It is essential that they are managed in a safe and responsible way. Each country has a responsibility to ensure that radioactive wastes which fall within its jurisdiction are managed properly in accordance with internationally accepted principles. The international community should make all efforts to prohibit the export of radioactive wastes to those countries which do not have appropriate waste treatment and storage facilities. The storage, transportation, transboundary movements and disposal of radioactive wastes should be guided by the principles of the Rio Declaration [, with particular attention to principles 2 and 19, and the principle that States should pursue to store and dispose of radioactive wastes in the State in which they are generated,][Governments shall also continue to undertake disposal activities in accordance with the proximity principle. Where such activities are likely to cause significant adverse transboundary environmental effect, States shall provide prior notification, relevant information and consult, at an early stage, with States that could be impacted by such activities] and Agenda 21 and undertaken in a manner consistent with the provisions of internationally accepted standards as well as international and relevant regional conventions. It is important to intensify efforts to promote safety measures with regard to nuclear wastes. Storage or disposal of radioactive waste should not take place near the marine environment [and other sensitive ecological areas] unless States determine that scientific evidence, consistent with the applicable internationally agreed principles and guidelines shows that this does not pose an unacceptable risk to people and the environment. In the process of consideration of that evidence, appropriate application of the principle of the precautionary approach should be made. Further action is needed by the international community to address the need for enhancing awareness of the importance of safe management of radioactive wastes, and to ensure the prevention of incidents and accidents involving the uncontrolled release of such wastes.

50. * (Agreed) One of the main recommendations of Agenda 21 and the second session of CSD in this area was to support the ongoing efforts of the IAEA, IMO and other relevant international organizations. The Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management currently being negotiated under the auspices of the IAEA is now close to completion. It will provide a comprehensive codification of international law and a guide to best practice in this area. It will rightly be based on all the principles of best practice for this subject that have evolved in the international community, including the principle that, in general, it is best for radioactive wastes to be disposed of in the State in which it was generated as far as is compatible with the safety of the management of such material. Governments should finalize this text and are urged to ratify and implement it as soon as possible so as to further improve practice and strengthen safety in this area. Transportation of irradiated nuclear fuel, high level waste by sea should be guided by the INF-Code, which should be considered for development into a mandatory instrument. The issue of potential transboundary environmental effects of activities related to the management [Endnote 15] of radioactive wastes and the question of prior notification, relevant information and consultation with States that could potentially be affected by such effects, should be further addressed within the appropriate fora.

(* The Ukraine reserved its position on this paragraph, and wished the fact to be noted in the final report of the meeting).

51. Increased global and regional cooperation, including exchange experience and transfer of appropriate technologies, is needed to improve the management of radioactive wastes. There is a need to support the clean-up of contaminated sites left from [military activities using nuclear materials as well as those arising from uranium mining and] nuclear activities. Technical assistance should be provided to developing countries in order to enable them to develop or improve procedures for the management and safety disposal of radioactive wastes deriving from the use of radionuclides in medicine, research and industry [and recognizing the special needs of SIDS and coastal states relating to the risk of environmental impact from those activities].

Land and sustainable agriculture

52. Land degradation and soil loss threaten the livelihood of millions of people and future food security, with implications for water resources and the conservation of biodiversity. There is an urgent need to define ways to combat or reverse the worldwide accelerating trend of soil degradation, using an ecosystem approach, and taking into account the needs of populations living in mountain ecosystems and recognizing the multiple functions of agriculture. The greatest challenge for humanity is to protect and sustainably manage the natural resource base on which food and fibre production depend, while feeding and housing a population which is still growing. The international community has recognized the need for an integrated approach to the protection and sustainable management of land and soil resources, as stated in decision III/11 of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity, including identification of land degradation, that involves all interested parties at local as well as national levels, including farmers, small-scale food producers, indigenous people [RETAIN s {wc}] and non-governmental organizations and in particular women, who have a vital role in rural communities. This should include action to ensure secure land tenure and access to land, credits and training as well as the removal of obstacles that inhibit farmers, especially small scale farmers and peasants, from investment in and improvement of their lands and farms.

53. It remains essential to continue efforts for the eradication of poverty through, inter alia, capacity-building to reinforce local food systems, improving food security and providing adequate nutrition for the more than 800 million undernourished people in the world, located mainly in developing countries. Governments should formulate policies that promote sustainable agriculture as well as productivity and profitability. Comprehensive rural policies are required to improve access to land, combat poverty, create employment and reduce reduce rural emigration. [RETAIN: At the same time, sustainable food security among both urban and rural poor should be a policy priority. {ICLEI}] [Developed countries and the international community should provide adequate resources and technical assistance to developing countries to this end.] To meet those objectives, Governments should attach high priority to implementing the commitments of the Rome Declaration on World Food Security and World Food Summit Plan of Action, as adopted in the report of the World Food Summit (Rome, 13-17 November 1996), especially the call for a minimum target of halving the number of undernourished people in the world by the year 2015. Governments and international organizations are encouraged to implement the Global Plan of Action for the Conservation and Sustainable Utilization of Plant Genetic Resources as adopted in the report of the Leipzig Conference. [At the CSD of 1998 the issues of sustainable agriculture and land use should be considered in relation to freshwater.] The challenge for agricultural research is to increase yields on all farmlands while protecting and conserving the natural resource base. The international community and governments must continue or increase investments in agricultural research because it can take years or decades to develop new lines of research and bring those research findings into sustainable practice on the land. Developing countries, particularly those with high population densities, will need international cooperation to gain access to the results of such research and to technology aimed at improving agricultural productivity in limited spaces. More generally, international co- operation continues to be needed to assist developing countries in many other aspects of basic requirements of agriculture. [There is also a need to continue work in the World Trade Organization to liberalize international trade in agriculture and, to pursue food and overall trade policies that will encourage producers and consumers to utilize available resources in an economically sound and sustainable manner taking account of the special and differential treatment for developing countries, particularly the least developed countries, and net food importers.] OR [ There is also a need for further empirical work and analysis in discussions on the benefits of removing trade restrictions.] OR [There is a need to effectively implement the agricultural agreement of the World Trade Organization.]

Desertification and drought

55. The international community is urged to recognize the importance and necessity of international cooperation and partnership in combatting desertification and mitigating the effects of drought. [The international community, in particular developed countries, should also therefore support the global mechanism that would indeed have the capacity to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of, and ensure new and additional financial resources for, advancing the implementation of the Convention and its annexes, and to contribute to the eradication of poverty which is one of the principal consequences of desertification and drought in the majority of affected countries (AND PROMOTE THE INCLUSION OF NGO PARTICIPATION AND EXPERTISE IN THE GLOBAL MECHANISM {dc}).]

OR

[The international community, in particular developed countries, should also support the global mechanism in its work to facilitate the mobilization of adequate financial resources for advancing the implementation of the Convention and its regional annexes.] [The transfer of environmentally sound, economically viable and socially acceptable technologies to developing countries relevant to combatting desertification and/or mitigating the effects of drought, with a view to contributing to the achievement of sustainable development in affected areas, should be undertaken without delay.]

65. [Technological and man-made disasters] [Similar disasters with an adverse impact on the environment] become a substantial obstacle in the way of achieving the goals of sustainable development in many countries. The international community should intensify cooperation on prevention and reduction of [technological and man-made disasters] [similar disasters with an adverse impact on the environment], disaster relief and post-disaster rehabilitation in order to enhance the capabilities of affected countries to cope with such situations.

3. Means of Implementation

Financial resources and mechanisms

66. Financial resources and mechanisms play a key role in the implementation of Agenda 21. In general, the financing for the implementation of Agenda 21 will come from a country's own public and private sectors. For developing countries, ODA is a main source of external funding, and substantial new and additional funding for sustainable development and implementation of Agenda 21 will be required. Hence, all financial commitments [RETAIN: and objectives {wc}] of Agenda 21, particularly those contained in Chapter 33, and [DELETE: including those {wc}] [RETAIN: the objectives {wc}] related to the provision of new and additional resources that are both adequate and predictable, need to be urgently fulfilled. Renewed efforts are essential to ensure that all sources of funding contribute to economic growth, social development, and environmental protection in the context of sustainable development and the implementation of Agenda 21.

67. [For developing countries, particularly in Africa and the least developed countries, official development assistance (ODA) remains a main source of external funding, and is essential for their prompt [full] and effective implementation of Agenda 21. [At this stage,] ODA cannot generally be replaced by private capital flows] Developed countries should therefore fulfill the commitments undertaken to reach the accepted United Nations target of 0.7 per cent of GNP as soon as possible. In this context the present downward trend in the ratio of ODA to GNP causes concern. Intensified efforts should be made to reverse this trend, taking into account the need for improving the quality and effectiveness of ODA. In the spirit of global partnership, the underlying factors that have led to this decrease should be addressed by all countries. Strategies should be worked out for increasing donor support to aid programmes and revitalizing the commitments that donors made at UNCED. Some countries already meet or exceed the 0.7 per cent agreed target. Official financial flows to developing countries, particularly least developed countries, remain an essential element of the p in Agenda 21. ODA plays a significant role, inter alia, in capacity-building, infrastructure, combating poverty and environmental protection in developing countries, and a crucial role in the least developed countries. [Official financial flows [ODA] may also play an important catalytic role in encouraging, where appropriate, country-driven policy reform efforts [and leveraging private investment]].

69. * (Agreed) Continued and full donor commitments to adequate, sustained and predictable funding for GEF operations is important for developing countries so that global environmental benefits can be further achieved. Donor countries are urged to engage in providing new and additional resources, with a view to an equitable burden sharing, through a satisfactory replenishment of the GEF, which makes available grant and concessional funding designed to achieve global environmental benefits and therefore will promote sustainable development. Consideration should be given to further exploring the flexibility of the GEF's existing mandate in supporting activities to achieve global environmental benefits. With regard to the project cycle, further efforts should be made to continue the streamlining of the decision-making process in order to maintain an effective and efficient, as well as transparent, participatory and democratic framework. The GEF, when acting as the operating entity of the financial mechanism of the Climate Change and Biodiversity Conventions, should continue to operate in conformity with those Conventions and promote their implementation. The GEF implementing agencies, UNDP, UNEP and the World Bank should strengthen, as appropriate and in accordance with their respective mandates, their cooperation at all levels, including at the field level.

(* The Philippines reserved its position on this paragraph, and wished the fact to be noted in the final report of the meeting).

[70. There is also a need for the effective use of an increased level of resources of UN funds and programmes, in order to sup developing countries in implementing Agenda 21. Regional and subregional organizations with designated roles should also be strengthened to enable them to effectively support their efforts.] [(GA Res. 50/120, para. 9) There is a need for a substantial increase in resources for operational activities for development on a predictable, continuous and assured basis, commensurate with the increasing needs of developing countries.]

73. There is a need for a fuller understanding of the impact of indebtedness on the pursuit of sustainable development by developing countries. [AMEND & RETAIN: To this end, the World Bank and IMF [RETAIN: should {wc}] [DELETE: could {wc}] collaborate with UNCTAD and the United Nations Secretariat in further considering the inter-relationship between indebtedness and sustainable development for developing countries (ADD: INCLUDING THE CREATION OF AN EFFECTIVE NEW PROCESS/ MECHANISM/ STRATEGY TO STRENGTHEN LINKS BETWEEN THE WORLD BANK, IMF, WTO AND POST-RIO PLANS OF ACTION WHICH INCLUDES EXAMINATION OF SOVEREIGNTY AND FOREIGN INVESTMENT ISSUES. {wc}]

[74. [In general,] Financing for the implementation of Agenda 21 will come from countries' own public and private sectors. Policies for promoting domestic resource mobilization, including credit, could include sound macroeconomic reforms, including fiscal and monetary policy reforms, a review and reform of existing subsidies, the promotion of personal savings and access to credit, especially micro-credit, in particular for women. Such policies should be decided by each country, taking into account its own characteristics and capabilities and different levels of development, especially as reflected in national sustainable development strategies where they exist. (EXTRA FUNDING FOR THIS SHOULD COME THROUGH A DOUBLING OF THE GEF {fin})]

75. There is a need for making existing subsidies more transparent in order to increase public awareness of their actual economic, social and environmental impact and to reform or, where pertinent, remove them. Further national and international research in that area should be promoted in order to assist Governments in identifying and considering phasing out subsidies that have market distorting, socially and environmentally damaging impacts. [Bearing in mind the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities,] subsidy reductions should take full account of the specific conditions of individual countries and should consider potentially regressive impacts. In addition, it would be desirable to use international cooperation and coordination to promote reduction of subsidies where these have important implications for competitiveness.

76. In order to reduce the barriers to an expanded use of economic instruments, Governments and international organizations should collect and share information on the use of economic instruments and introduce pilot schemes that would, inter alia, demonstrate how to make the best use of such instruments while seeking to avoid any adverse effects [particularly on developing countries] [on terms of trade and trade competitiveness of developing countries]. When introducing economic instruments that raise the cost of economic activities for households and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), governments should consider gradual phase-ins, (AND FAMILY NEEDS {fam}) public education programmes and targeted technical assistance as strategies for reducing distributional impacts. [RETAIN: Various studies and practical experiences in a number of countries indicate that the use of economic instruments can generate win-win possibilities by shifting consumer and producer behaviors to more sustainable directions, while generating financial resources for sustainable development or reducing taxes elsewhere. {spc} {ICLEI}]

77. (Agreed) Innovative financial mechanisms are currently under discussion in international and national fora but are not yet fully evolved conceptually. The UN Secretary-General is due to submit a report on innovative financing mechanisms to the forthcoming substantive session of ECOSOC. In view of the widespread interest in them, appropriate organizations, including UNCTAD, the World Bank and IMF, are invited to consider conducting forward-looking studies into concerted action on such mechanisms and to share them with the CSD and other relevant intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations. In this regard, innovative funding should complement and not replace ODA. New initiatives for cooperative implementation of environment and development objectives under mutually beneficial incentive structures should be further explored.]

[77. (bis)* (DELETE {fin})

In the context of its future work programme, the CSD acknowledges and encourages contributions from Member States, non- governmental organizations and business, UN bodies and other intergovernmental organizations. In particular, the recommendations of the fourth expert group meeting on financial issues of Agenda 21, hosted by the Government of Chile in January 1977, represent an important basis for the follow-up work in the CSD. Recognizing the important work of such expert group meetings, member countries and relevant international organizations are invited to support the convening of such meetings in the future with a view to providing further recommendations and input to the CSD, in particular, to its session in the year 2000.]

(* This paragraph was not negotiated, but was included at the request of Norway).

OR

[77. (bis)* (RETAIN {fin})

An appropriate intergovernmental process should be established to (i) consider practical policy responses the recommendations of the Expert Group Meetings on Financial Issues of Agenda 21; (ii) articulate possible strategies for implementation; and (iii) clarify the roles of ODA, public and private investment and innovative financing mechanisms in sustainable development. The process should report to the CSD at its session in the year 2000.]

(* This amendment to the Norwegian paragraph (77 bis) was not negotiated, but was included at the request of the USA).

Transfer of environmentally sound technologies

78. The availability of scientific and technological information and access to and transfer of environmentally sound technology are essential requirements for sustainable development. There is an urgent need for developing countries to acquire greater access to environmentally sound technology if they are to meet the obligations agreed at UNCED and in the relevant international conventions. The ability of developing countries to participate in, benefit from and contribute to the rapid advances in science and technology can significantly influence their development. This calls for an urgent fulfilment of all the [commitments] [objectives] as contained in Chapter 34 of Agenda 21. The international community should promote, facilitate and finance, as appropriate, the access to and the transfer of environmentally 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. Current forms of cooperation involving the public and private sectors of developing and developed countries should be built upon and expanded. In this context, it is important to identify barriers and restrictions to the transfer of publicly and privately owned environmentally sound technologies, with a view to reducing such constraints while creating specific incentives, fiscal or the transfer of such technologies. The progress of [commitments] [objectives] contained in Agenda 21, in this regard, should be regularly reviewed as part of the multi-year work programme of the Commission on Sustainable Development.

79. Technology transfer and the development of the human and institutional capacity to adapt, absorb and diffuse technologies, as well as to generate technical knowledge and innovations, are part of the same process and must be given equal importance. [Considering that technology transfer to developing countries cannot be confined to market forces alone, governments have an important role to play in providing R&D; institutions with incentives to promote and to contribute to the development of the institutional and human capacities for effective technology transfer, subject to the need to protect intellectual property rights.]

Capacity-building

98. Access to information, public participation and the right to complaint are hallmarks of environmental democracy. There should be wider access to relevant court systems to pursue environmental protection. Access should be provided to effective judicial and administrative channels for affected individuals and groups so that they can challenge or seek redress from decisions and actions that are socially and environmentally harmful or violate [RETAIN & AMEND (FAMILY AND {fam}) human rights including legal mechanisms to ensure that all authorities, both national and local, and other civil organizations remain accountable for their actions in accordance with their social, environmental and human rights obligations, and within national legislation. {hr}]

[99. RETAIN & AMEND The progressive development and codification of international law on sustainable development is advisable (DELETE: thus, contributing to the {hr}) (AS IS THE {hr}) coordination between the CSD and other bodies of the United Nations system where these tasks are being undertaken.(TOWARD THIS END, THE COMMISSION ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TAKES NOTE OF THE COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS' DECISION OF MARCH 1997 (E/CN.4/1997/L.19), IN WHICH THE COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS INVITES THE SECRETARY-GENERAL TO BRING THE MATTER OF HUMAN RIGHTS AND THE ENVIRONMENT AND THE COMMISSION'S OWN CONSIDERATION OF THE QUESTION TO THE ATTENTION OF THE SPECIAL SESSION OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY ON AGENDA 21, AS WELL AS TO SUBMIT IT TO DISCUSSION AT THE CSD AND OTHER INTERNATIONAL BODIES." {hr})]

NOTE: The text of paragraphs 100 to 107 which follows reflects the compilation of amendments but was not negotiated during the meeting.

100. [G-77+China: (Strike-out) Implementation of and compliance with international treaties in the field of sustainable development (end of strike-out)] [+ EU/Norway: (Strike-out) needs further improvement (end of strike-out) is an urgent priority]. [Norway/Japan: This work needs to be coordinated to ensure synergies in implementation and reporting requirements, and to avoid duplication and overlap.] [Canada/Norway: Similarly, science based decision making enhances the development and implementation of multilateral environment agreements.] [USA: (Strike- out) Secure, sustained and predictable financial support, sufficient institutional capacity and human resources, and adequate access to technology may (end of strike-out) [G-77+China: will] Strike-out) promote the implementation of international legal instruments. (end of strike-out) Adequate financial support and access to technology, as well as sufficient institutional capacity and human resources, will promote implementation of international legal instruments] [USA, EU: (Strike-out) Full implementation of international commitments can eliminate (end of strike-out) [G-77+China: may reduce] (Strike-out) potential sources of conflict, and the development of cooperative, non-judicial and transparent mechanisms for implementation should be pursued. (end of strike-out)] [USA: Cooperation between States, including full implementation of international commitments, can reduce potential sources of conflict between States.] [EU/Norway: By improving compliance with international obligations, implementation and compliance procedures can contribute considerably to preventing international disputes. Of overriding importance remains the need for further improvement in reporting and data collection systems and the further development of compliance regimes and procedures to help and encourage States to fulfill their obligations under multilateral agreements by simple, cooperative, non-judicial and transparent means. In this context, UNEP's Montevideo Programme of Action is welcome welcomed.]

101. [Norway: Cooperate to develop further international law regarding liability and compensation for victims of pollution and other environmental damage caused by activities within the jurisdiction or control of States to areas beyond national jurisdiction.]

Information and tools to measure progress

102. The further development of cost-effective tools to collect and disseminate information for decision makers at all levels, through strengthened data collection [AMEND & RETAIN: Canada: including gender disaggregated data, INFORMATION RELATED TO WOMEN AND THE ENVIRONMENT SO AS TO ENSURE THE INTEGRATION OF GENDER CONSIDERATIONS INTO THE DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT POLICIES AND PROGRAMMES {wc} (Agreed Conclusions submitted by the Chairperson of the Commission in the critical area of concern: women and the environment, CSW 41, March 21, 1997) and DATA WHICH MEASURES AND VALUES UNWAGED WORK {wc}], compilation and analysis, is urgently needed. [Peru: In this context, it shall be emphasized in the electronic media, particularly through large scientific and technological data centers.] [USA: It is important that the objective of data collection, compilation, and analysis should progress in a strategic manner so that any gaps in data can be more efficiently addressed on a priority basis.]

[103. Japan: In order to enhance common awareness of global environmental issues among the people around the world, and to promote their understanding and participation, an environment is necessary to be established in which the general public can easily access information on global environmental issues through active utilization of info-communication networks, such as the Internet. High-tech info-communications infrastructure related to the global environment, using various tools such as geographic information system and video transmission technology, including global mapping, should be also established with the collaboration of States as well as the United Nations.]

104. [RETAIN & AMEND: Norway: Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) are an important tool for sustainable development. EIAs must be performed and be made available (TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES {ICLEI}) early enough in the planning cycle to reach decision makers in time. Where important environmental values could be at stake, decisions should not be made before complete EIAs are available. THE IMPACT ON WOMEN'S LOW WAGED AND UNWAGED WORKLOAD AND HEALTH SHOULD BE INCLUDED AS AN ESSENTIAL COMPONENT OF EIAS {wc}. EIA should be gradually refined and applied to any (LOCAL {ICLEI}) national or international investment programme (OF EITHER THE PUBLIC OR PRIVATE SECTOR {ICLEI}).]

105. The Commission's work programme on indicators for sustainable development should result in [New Zealand: (Strike-out) an adequate (end of strike-out) a] set of indicators, including a limited number of aggregated indicators, to be used at the national level [G-77+China: (Strike-out) by the year 2000 (end of strike-out) as appropriate taking into account specific national issues]. Indicators [EU: of sustainable development, including sector specific ones] should play an important role in monitoring progress towards sustainable development and in facilitating national reporting, as appropriate.

[106. Efforts should be intensified to develop indicators of sustainable development in order to give more complete and accurate information for decision-making, and to contribute to the (DELETE "greening" {wc}) (ADD: RECALCULATION {wc} of national budgets IN RECOGNITION OF THE FULL SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL COSTS TO AND CONTRIBUTIONS FROM PEOPLE AND THE ENVIRONMENT {wc}.]

NOTE: Para. 107 is covered under Section D. International Institutional Arrangements, para. 89 (b) and (c).

107. National reports provided on the implementation of Agenda 21 [Australia: over a five-year-period] have proven to be a valuable means of sharing information at the international and regional levels, and even more importantly, of providing a focus for the coordination of issues [Egypt: for the use of domestic resources and transfer of international financial resources and technology] related to sustainable development within individual countries. National [Canada: (Strike-out) reporting (end of strike-out) reports should continue (Strike-out) and should reflect all aspects of Agenda 21, including domestic action and international commitments (end of strike-out), but with a greater emphasis on results and milestones that clearly demonstrate progress on Agenda 21 and global commitments. (Strike-out) The reporting system could be completed by peer reviews organized at the regional level (end of strike-out). Implementation of peer reviews of national reports should be given serious consideration with a view to increasing accountability for results, progress and good practices.]

{Replace sentence with] ... The reporting system could be complemented by [G77+China: (Strike-out) peer reviews (end of strike- out) exchange of information and experiences at the regional level],

[USA: Norway: including peer reviews], [Norway: , building on the positive experiences of OECD and the ECE reviews.]

2. Role of relevant organizations and institutions of the United Nations system

120. The implementation of the commitment by the international financial institutions to sustainable development should continue to be strengthened. The World Bank has a significant role to play, bearing in mind its expertise and the overall volume of resources that it commands. [Adequate replenishment, by the donor community of twelfth International Development Association (IDA) is indispensable for its future work. Donor countries are urged to engage in providing new and additional resources, with a view to an equitable burden- sharing, through a satisfactory replenishment of the GEF, which makes available grant and concessional funding designed to achieve global environmental benefits and therefore will promote sustainable development. The designation of the GEF as the permanent entity entrusted with the operation of their financial mechanisms of the FCCC and the CBD, to be considered by the respective COPs, is also indispensable to the future work of the GEF. However, in keeping with the commitments made at UNCED, increased availability of new and additional funding for sustainable development is necessary.] [In keeping with the commitments, made at UNCED, funding for Agenda 21 and other outcomes of the Conference should be provided in a way that maximizes the availability of new and additional resources and uses all available funding sources and mechanisms.]