| earth summit two 23 - 27 june 1997 |
es2/1997/pc.1/csdngo/1/draft.1 |
1 Access to Earth Summit II and the General Assembly
We call for: Ensuring that the arrangements for the UN General Assembly Special Session are based on the newly revised Arrangements for Consultation with Non-Governmental Organizations - Part VII of Resolution 1996/31 - and that these arrangements should apply to strengthening NGO access to and participation in the General Assembly and its committees.
Implementation: As part of the CSD process, Members States, in close collaboration with the General Assembly President, needs to undertake to expeditiously achieve agreement on the adoption of NGO arrangements for the Special Session based on the above-referenced Resolution 1996/31, Part VII.
Rationale: The CSD's Member States agreed at their 1996 session, inter alia, that the General Assembly should ensure "appropriate arrangements for the most effective contribution to and active involvement of major groups, including non-governmental organizations, in the special session of the Assembly in 1997" (E/CN.17/1996/38).
The 51st Session of the General Assembly adopted Resolution 51/181, which provides, inter alia, that the GA "Recognizes the important contributions made by major groups, including non-governmental organizations, at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development and in the implementation of its recommendations, and the need for their effective participation in preparations for the special session, as well as the need to ensure appropriate arrangements, taking into account the practice and experience gained at the Conference, for the substantive contributions to and active involvement in the preparatory meetings and the special session, and in that context invites the President of the General Assembly, in consultation with Member States, to propose to Member States appropriate modalities for the effective involvement of major groups in the special session..." (A/RES/51/181).
As agreed by governments, it is imperative that NGOs be able to participate in the manner called for in the UNGA resolution. NGOs have a great deal to contribute to the discussions, not as negotiators, but as consultants on the substantive issues involved. Therefore, the arrangements for NGOs in consultative status with ECOSOC, as agreed to in Part VII of Resolution 1996/31, should form the basis for arrangements in the Special Session.
Beyond the Special Session, those 1996/31 arrangements should also apply to the General Assembly and its Main Committees. Moreover, we are keenly interested in ensuring effective NGO arrangements throughout the UN system. But the only issue facing Member States in this CSD preparatory process, consistent with the GA resolution, is that of ensuring effective NGO participation in the Special Session. That is the task that we ask to be accomplished as expeditiously as possible.
2.1 Climate Change
We call for: The endorsement of a legally binding commitments to reduction of CO2 emissions to 20% below 1990 levels by the year 2005, and other appropriate reductions in greenhouse gases, to be agreed at Kyoto, December 1997.
Implementation: The Special Session makes a declaration on CO2 emissions to go to the Conference of Parties meeting in Kyoto.
Rationale: In spite of some limited progress most industrial countries will not meet that target. Earth Summit II will offer the opportunity for a key political message to be sent to the upcoming Kyoto meeting of the Parties to the Climate Change Convention in December 1997. (See also sections on Energy and Transport).
2.2 Forests
We call for: The continuation and enhancement of the intergovernmental policy dialogue on forests under the CSD. This dialogue would include a high-level component and should promote in a transparent, participatory manner an action-oriented approach to solving critical forest-related problems involving all types of forests.
Implementation: This process should work towards the implementation of the Forest Principles, forest-related sections of Agenda 21, such as Chapter 11, and Proposals for Action developed under the IPF. Progress on the implementation of this work program would be reported annually to the CSD. The intergovernmental policy dialogue would also consider other arrangements and mechanisms, including legal arrangements, covering all types of forests and report on these matters to the CSD, at a special "Post-Rio" 10-year review.
Rationale: The Intergovernmental Panel on Forests made significant progress and reached consensus on a large number of Proposals for Action. However the Panel did not reach a consensus on the need for any new legal instrument on forests. Thus, the primary rationale for the continuation of the policy dialogue is to focus on implementation and action with clearly defined targets and timetables. At the risk of repetitiveness, the focus must be on implementation and action, now. This work should start immediately and not be distracted by a costly and time consuming debate over the need for a forest convention. At the same time, all options for exploring the efficacy of existing instruments and institutions, in relation to sustainable forest management, should be thoroughly pursued.
2.3 Chemicals
We call for: the expeditious negotiation of a legally binding instrument on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) that will focus on 'reducing and eliminating' those dangerous chemicals, not just controlling them; come to an agreement on Prior Informed Consent and a global harmonized system for the classification and labeling; and develop a Framework Chemicals Convention without delaying the expeditious negotiation of a treaty on POPs.
Implementation: UNEP should be entrusted with overseeing the establishment of an Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) for POPs, as agreed at UNEP's Governing Council 19, and the expeditious negotiation of that new, global POPs instrument, the conclusion of a global PIC instrument, and the development of a framework approach or convention for integrating chemicals-related actions and activities.
Rationale: We have approximately 100,000 chemicals now in commercial use and their potential impacts on human health and ecological function represent largely unknown risks. We have a number of agreements on chemicals moving to completion, such as the control of the production and use of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)- with negotiations set to begin in early 1998 and to conclude by 2000; the Prior Informed Consent procedure for international trade in hazardous chemicals, including a harmonized systems for classification and labeling of chemicals - with that new global instrument scheduled to be adopted and opened for ratification in late 1997; and the future elaboration of a framework approach or arrangement for integrating chemicals-related initiatives. There are approximately 100,000 chemicals now in commercial use and their potential impacts on human health and ecological function represent largely unknown risks. Other chemicals, such as lead (Pb), are elements which often remain on the earth's surface where its toxic effects expose generation after generation.
2.4 Oceans
We call for: The setting up of a more effective forum or mechanism for ocean-related dialogue and action, e.g., an Intergovernmental Panel on Oceans (IPO) or a sub Commission of the CSD, meetings of States Parties to the Law of the Sea Convention, and/or other appropriate mechanisms. Such an entity should contribute to the preparation of a comprehensive scientific assessment of the state of the oceans and the necessary policy recommendations, taking into account the related activities of UNEP and GESAMP - the Joint Group of Experts on Scientific Aspects of Marine Pollution. We also request the Special Session to instruct the FAO to analyze the efficiency of current fishing fleet decommissioning schemes associated with excess of fishing capacity, on the basis of the objectives of the UN Fish Stocks agreement, the FAO Code of Conduct on Responsible Fisheries and related emerging strategies, with a view towards reducing capacity to sustainable levels, especially in relation to large-scale, industrial class vessels. Immediate action is also necessary to address problems of wasteful fishing practices, fisheries and oil platforms, and unsustainable aquaculture.
Implementation: The ocean dialogue and action forum would have close ties with or be subsidiary to the CSD, reporting annually to the CSD up to the year 2002, at which time it would make full recommendations to the 10th Anniversary Review of Rio. Given that the Law of the Sea Treaty is now in force, and agreement also offers possibilities for forums within which ocean-related dialogue and action can be discussed, with recommended actions forwarded to the UNGA as well as the CSD. The UN Division on Ocean Affairs and Law of the Sea, the ACC Subcommittee on Coastal and Ocean Areas (SOCA) and/or a subgroup of the CSD should be considered for purposes of serving as the Secretariat.
Rationale: There is no question that the present international machinery regarding Oceans lacks coherence. After all, the oceans are a vital food source, a global carbon sink and home to some of the most beautiful and diverse species on the planet. We know that 70% of the world's marine fisheries are being fished at their maximum level of productivity, are over-fished or are threatened, endangered or commercially extinct.
2.5 Freshwater
We call for: a negotiated international agreement or arrangement on freshwater by 2002. In the meantime, all nations must work to make freshwater quality, conservation and supply a priority of local, national and international policy, undertaken such that the scope of coverage addresses watershed as well as airshed-related activities and impacts.
Implementation: Agree to discuss freshwater in the CSD session of 1998 and give UNEP the mandate and funding to provide the international community with examples of best practice, drawing on relevant expertise such as UNEP's regional seas program.
Rationale: Today 20% of the world's population lacks access to safe water and 50% to safe sanitation with over 5 million people dying each year from the results of waterborne diseases. The Comprehensive Assessment of the Freshwater Resources of the World produced for the June meeting by the Stockholm Institute on Environment has raised freshwater to the top of the international political agenda. The report predicts that if current trends in water use continue around 2/3 of the world's population will suffer water shortages in the next 25 years. In developed and developing countries the current systems for water use are frequently not sustainable. Therefore, nations need to protect water resources. Watershed and airshed approaches include: development of methodology, establishment of policy, creation of basin teams, improving local capacity to protect water resources, and sharing responsibility for sustainable watershed and airshed protection and management through outreach, research, assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation.
2.6 Energy
We call for: Sustainable energy policies that reflect the true costs of fossil fuels; substantially increase programs for energy conservation, renewable energy, and energy efficiency programmes; and a phasing out of nuclear power.
Implementation: Governments to adopt legislation to remove subsidies for, and increase taxes on, unsustainable forms of energy - such as fossil fuels, nuclear power, and large-scale hydropower - and increase funding for energy conservation, including passive solar design, energy efficiency; and renewable energy programmes - especially to encourage solar, wind, fuel cells, and small-scale hydropower.
Rationale: Current energy practices in industrialized countries, which rely heavily on fossil fuels, are wasteful and environmentally harmful. Fossil fuel combustion contributes to global warming, acid rain and air pollution which threatens human health, property and the environment. Nuclear energy is also threatening to human health and the lack of waste disposal methods. Clean renewable power sources are readily available. Since Rio there has been little movement toward fundamental changes in energy production and consumption and no significant new investments in promoting renewable energy systems. There has been some development in the private sector with efficiency and more economical co-generation systems, while discouraging large, less-efficient and less economical stand-alone steam turbine-based power plants. Fossil fuel prices do not take into account various other internal costs such as direct and indirect economic subsidies and incentives for the exploration, generation, transmission and distribution of fossil fuel-based energy, plus external costs such as health and environmental costs. When these are calculated the true costs of fossil fuel are many times that of current costs of renewable energy.
2.7 Transport
We call for: Transport to be adopted as a priority area in the five year work programme for the CSD; increase allocation of road space for public transport and non-motorized transport modes; measures which implement the polluter pays principle for transport; support for car-free areas in cities; promotion of land use planning which reduces the need to travel by car.
Implementation: International Development Agencies and governments should: actively promote public transport and non-motorized travel as the most sustainable forms of travel and prioritize their access to the street network; amend financial instruments to benefit people who choose to travel by more energy and cost efficient modes and at the same time remove subsidies to automobile travel by charging the full social cost of transport externalities; review existing land use planning policies to ensure that new development and infrastructure projects reduce car dependency and provide safe access by a choice of modes of transport; identify both direct and indirect impacts in undertaking their assessment and economic appraisals of infrastructure projects, ensuring consistent evaluation criteria between all modes.
Rationale: The sustainability of the Earth is increasingly threatened by the increasing use of private motor vehicles. Currently transport accounts for 58% of global oil consumed, and 25% of primary energy use, of which road traffic accounts for some 72%. CO2 emissions from the transport sector constitute the fastest growing and most threatening contributors to global warming as these emissions are projected to rise between 40% and 100% by the year 2025 unless action is taken to prevent this. Agenda 21 already endorses investment in pedestrian facilities, bicycle infrastructure and mass transit as effective pollution control measures. It further encourages the implementation of land use planning which reduce car dependency and overall travel. Habitat II reinforces these measures and specifically called for the polluter pays principle to be applied to the transport sector thus making the real costs of motorized transport more transparent. Translating these commitments into strategies for action should be a priority for the CSD. Reducing transport demand and car dependency also meets a range of cross-sectoral objectives such as these relating to human health and safety, urban and rural sustainable settlements and the conservation of natural resources and habitats.
2.8 Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security
We call for: Implementation of the provisions of Chapter 14 of Agenda 21 that call for sustainable and ecological food, production and distribution systems to protect the environment and contribute to the well-being of human and non-human inhabitants of the earth.
Implementation: Commit to capacity-building opportunities and structures to support farmers, women and men, especially small-scale producers, to enable them to employ agricultural methods that are ecologically sound and sustainable.
Rationale: Long-term food and nutritional security depends upon the ability of primary food producers to achieve sustainable food systems both now and in the future. Local ecologically-based production and distribution systems are better suited to protect the natural biodiversity, health and well-being of their communities. The industrial model of agricultural production is contributing, dramatically, to ecological disruption and deterioration. Increasingly the globalized food system is the root cause of the social and environmental crisis in agriculture. This kind of energy-intensive and chemical-dependent agriculture degrades the fertility of soils, intensifies the effects of droughts, pollutes water, causes salinization and compaction, destroys genetic resources, wastes fossil fuel energy, contaminates the food supply, and contributes to climate change. (Refer to NGO Working Group on Sustainable Agriculture paper). As part of these efforts, the FAO/others needs to promote and ensure that agreement is achieved in relation to implementation of the Pollutant Transfer Registers, and the reduction of pesticide use by at least 50%.
2.9 Biodiversity
We call for: All governments should ratify the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) by the end of 1997; and take immediate action to prevent further destruction of biodiversity and habitats, while providing for human needs in a sustainable fashion.
Implementation: The Special Session urge all countries to ratify the CBD; and to expand protected area networks, ensure adequate funding for their management, and integrate them into local economic development, enact legislation regulating access to and use of natural resources, build capacity to manage biological resources on a bioregional or ecosystem basis.
Rationale: It has been estimated that 40% of the world's species could be extinct within 25 years. Loss of biodiversity on this scale could have dramatic consequences. Hundreds of millions of people in developing countries depend directly on biological resources for their livelihoods. Loss and degradation of forests and wetlands exacerbates poverty. Genetic diversity provides diversity of agricultural and food products and increased ability to resist disease. Genetic diversity provides medical cures. Loss of our genetic resources prejudice the world's ability to feed itself. Genetic diversity plays a vital part in maintaining the health of global ecosystems: forests help to regulate climate, wetlands buffer pollution and serve as breeding grounds for commercially important fish species. It is also morally imperative to prevent extinction of other living species through human action.
2.10 Biotechnology
We call for: The CSD to strongly support the immediate adoption and implementation of an ecologically sound Biosafety protocol within the Convention on Biological Diversity.
Rationale: The dangers to health and environment posed by the deliberate release of genetically modified organisms are increasing daily.
3.1 Access to Resources
3.1.1 Aid, Subsidies and New Financial Mechanisms
We call for: The Global Environment Facility (GEF) to be increased and given a stronger mandate; donors to meet the 0.7% of GNP target for aid by 2002; and for all aid to be better targeted to the objectives of the Rio agreements and post-Rio conferences; Stricter scrutiny to prevent abuse of all funds and corrupt practices at both national and international levels; Reform of taxation to encourage ecologically and socially responsible behavior; elimination of environmentally damaging subsidies in a socially equitable manner; a stronger focus on ecologically and socially responsible budget disbursements; The establishment of a stronger global regulatory framework for international capital flows; in particular on speculative financial transactions which can severely disrupt national economies and societies; Negotiations to start on an international aviation fuel charge, the revenue from which should be channeled into mechanisms such as the GEF and UNDP's Capacity 21;
We also call for: The establishment of an Intergovernmental [and NGO] Panel on Financing (or a Sub-Commission of the CSD) to: identify those costs of the transition to sustainable development that are best financed by external assistance and how best to concentrate scarce development assistance funds; analyze and formulate proposals on options for new financial mechanisms for sustainable development; review the implications for sustainable development of private international investment, privatization, structural adjustment and debt; debate and make recommendations on means of delivering finance, such as micro credit and national environmental funds; The establishment of formal links between the CSD and key International financial bodies, including the multilateral development banks, the IMF, the OECD, the G7, the World Economic Forum and the banking community.
Implementation: The Special Session should express strong support for an increased GEF. The response of aid to the Rio conventions and post-Rio conferences should be improved by all donors. The introduction of an aviation fuel charge should be examined in the context of the expiry at the end of 1997 of the EU exemption of aviation fuel from excise duties. The Intergovernmental Panel on Finance would be a subsidiary body of the CSD.
Rationale: Developed countries have failed to meet their commitment under Agenda 21 to provide substantial new and additional resources. External funds are still urgently needed on a large scale. While official development assistance has declined, environmentally damaging subsidies are estimated at $500 billion per year worldwide. Eliminating these subsidies and redirecting part of the savings into supporting sustainable development in developing countries would be a 'win-win' option. Conversely, positive incentives should be provided for environmentally and socially desirable activities. Greater efforts are needed to ensure transparency and to eliminate corruption in the use of all funds, whether external or domestic.
Eighty percent of international private investment flows to a handful of developing countries, most of them not among the least developed. Scrutiny of the implications of this investment for sustainable development is urgently needed: these implications are frequently negative, or at best unknown. The Intergovernmental Panel on Finance would involve a diverse range of experts in its work, including representatives of finance ministries, the banking community, NGOs and the private sector. The Panel should build on previous work, such as that by the Expert Group on Financial Issues of Agenda 21, and develop formal proposals for new approaches to financing sustainable development at both national and international levels. Formalized links between the CSD and key bodies in the international financial system are needed to make international financial governance more transparent, participatory and responsive to the objectives of Agenda 21.
3.1.2 Debt Cancellation
We call for: Commitment to make major debt cancellation announcements at the Special Session, as it is a critical centerpiece of the Rio formula, and explain to the public the relationship of debt cancellation to stemming environmental degradation and ending the cycle of poverty.
3.1.3 NGO Participation in Economic Development
We call for: the development of mechanisms and support that enables NGOs and Community organizations to have the opportunity to participate in economic development work that is environmentally friendly including the establishment of micro and regular business access to capital, credit, capacity-building and infrastructure.
3.2 Sustainable Consumption and Production
We call for: A new focus on quality of life, rather than standards of living; a recognition and support for NGO initiatives which address low-consumption lifestyles and under-consumption in 'the majority world', for (example eco-labels); government leadership in changing in unsustainable consumption, for example; publication of national ecological footprint analysis annually for the next five years to track reductions, the establishment of honest progress reports on full environmentally sound purchasing, commitments to national targets for re-use, reduction, refusal and recycling, especially aluminum doors, commitments to conduct full environmental impact assessments of privatization policies, elimination of subsidies for unsustainable activities, increased taxation on advertising, establishment of National Cleaner Production Centers, introduction of 'cradle to grave labels' for all commercial products, and promotion of more efficient production; stronger support for youth empowerment initiatives which promote sustainable lifestyles and ecologically sound social identities.
Implementation: Governments can draft new legislation, report accountably, support and create new initiatives and work in partnership with NGO networks, youth and community grassroots groups.
Rationale: Though the 1994 Oslo Roundtable achieved some steps forward, there remains much to be done. There is a lack of recognition of the roles of NGOs in actually improving consumption patterns, there needs to be stronger national responsibilities. Agenda 21 states that "... the major cause of the continued deterioration of the global environment is the unsustainable patterns of consumption and production patterns, particularly in industrialized countries, which is a matter of grave concern, aggravating poverty and imbalances." "Developed countries should take the lead in achieving sustainable consumption."
3.3 Trade
We call for: Support for a clear understanding that environmental conventions and other multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs) that fall outside the direct mandate and purview of the World Trade Organization (WTO) shall not be bound by WTO-related requirements; Trade and Environment Ministers to meet together before the next meeting of the WTO; an Intergovernmental Panel on Trade (or a sub-Commission of the CSD) to be set up which would: Explore, and make recommendations on, potential cross-sectoral mechanisms to reconcile trade and sustainable economic, environmental, and social development objectives; Explore and make recommendations in regards to the implications of free trade vs. fair trade on the impact on rural communities and farmers in developing countries and on the migration of people in vulnerable rural communities to urban ghettoes; Develop policy instruments to secure commodity prices which reflect the true environmental and social cost of their production, and recommend the withdrawal of escalating tariffs on primary commodities exported from developing countries; Develop recommendations on meeting the needs of developing countries for technical and financial assistance in the design, utilization and response to, trade measures and technical regulations; Research, and make proposals on, the criteria under which trade measures may be taken, including development of the concept of 'green tariffication', whereby if tariffs are deployed to protect industries meeting higher environmental standards, the revenue generated could be repatriated to developing countries - possibly in the form of an environment fund administered by a multilateral body for investment in cleaner technologies.
We also call for: Governments to pledge to create an effective new process/mechanism/strategy to strengthen links between the World Bank, IMF, WTO and post-Rio accountability which includes examination of sovereignty and foreign investment issues; To commit to expand efforts to eliminate negative effects on developing countries by reconciling WTO rule-making and global trade practices with the post-Rio agenda; To re-commit to implement the Habitat II agenda which calls for governments to create "regulatory and legal frameworks ... to promote socially and environmentally responsible corporate investment and reinvestment in and partnership with local communities."; To pledge to work for international codes of conduct for corporations and to govern weapons trade and export subsidies; To commit to ensure that the code aims to enforce compliance with ILO agreements and promote an international code of conduct to protect the rights of workers in developing countries and prevent their gender-based and economic exploitation by transnational corporations.
Implementation: The Special Session should declare that measures taken to implement global and other multilateral environmental agreements cannot be challenged in the WTO, and it should agree to the setting up of a new subsidiary body of the CSD to address these issues.
Rationale: Since the first Earth Summit, we have had the completion of the Uruguay Round of GATT and the setting up of the World Trade Organization. Serious concerns have been raised by NGOs and governments that deregulated global trade is creating increasing inequality, environmental degradation and social dislocation.
3.3.1 Fair Trade Versus Free Trade
We call for: Explore and make recommendations in regards to the implications of free trade vs. fair trade on the impact on rural communities and farmers in developing countries and on the migration of people in vulnerable rural communities to urban ghettoes;
Develop policy instruments to secure commodity prices which reflect the true environmental and social cost of their production, and recommend the withdrawal of escalating tariffs on primary commodities exported from developing countries; Develop recommendations on meeting the needs of developing countries for technical and financial assistance in the design, utilization and response to, trade measures and technical regulations;
3.3.2 Trade Embargoes
We call for the creation of mechanisms to offset the effect of trade embargoes not sanctioned by the United Nations on the sustainable economic and environmental development of affected countries.
3.4 Poverty
We call for: A renewed commitment to the eradication of poverty, and for governments to complete their poverty strategies by the year 2001 as called for at the World Summit for Social Development in Copenhagen. These should be integrated with their sustainable development strategies. Progress reports based on poverty indicators should be published annually, taking into account both sustainable development and poverty strategies.
Implementation: Countries could set up multi-stakeholder processes to produce national poverty strategies and agree on country relevant poverty indicators.
Rationale: Agenda 21 recognizes the significant impact that poverty has on environmental degradation and suggests that governments fulfill commitments made at the World Summit for Social Development at the earliest possible time.
3.5 Small Island Developing States
We call for: The financing and implementation of the Programme of Action of the 1994 Global Conference on Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States.
3.6 Education
We call for: Recognition of the crucial importance of lifelong education and empowerment for sustainable living and of the key role the Education Community has played in promoting sustainable development by agreeing to grant them Major Group status; charging the Education Community with realizing Chapter 36 and other aspects of Agenda 21 through an 'Education 21' programme. (They should report to the CSD Session in 2001 on their work.) The role of youth NGOs and networks in innovative empowerment and intergenerational partnership initiatives for sustainability should be strengthened and supported. Reversal of the reduction of education budgets worldwide and affirm the need to focus education curricula on sustainability goals.
Implementation: The Special Session should grant the Educational Community major group status, and support the role of grassroots Youth NGOs and intergenerational partnerships for empowerment and education for sustainable development.
Rationale: Chapter 36 of Agenda 21 in many ways is the most crucial chapter of Agenda 21. Without its global implementation, the chance of any of the other chapters being successfully implemented is significantly reduced.
4.1 Corporate Accountability
We call for: The Special Session to acknowledge the need for greater corporate accountability, to regulatory bodies and affected communities and to review and adopt the following seven recommendations; Acknowledge the importance of corporate accountability; Establish mechanisms to monitor and assess corporate practices (claims to best and worst practices); Strengthen public access to information; Reform unsustainable subsidies and tax breaks; make wrongdoers liable; Set structures in place which empower local communities; Make clean production the standard instead of the exception; and Reduce political influence of corporations on governments.
Implementation: The CSD should set up a Sub-Commission to enact the proposals, by reaffirming and strengthening the present limited mandate of the UN Center on Transnational Corporations.
Rationale: Corporate accountability is an intrinsic but neglected element of Agenda 21. With economic globalization, privatization, and the replacement of foreign assistance by private investment, there is a growing need for governments to ensure that corporations, (especially TNCs) are accountable to society and the communities they impact upon. The Habitat II agenda calls for governments to create "regulatory and legal frameworks ... to promote socially and environmentally responsible corporate investment and reinvestment in and partnership with local communities."
4.2 Local Agenda 21
We call for: A recognition of the progress made by over 2,000 local authorities worldwide, in concert with their local communities, in developing Local Agenda 21s and to give further impetus to the initiative by encouraging national governments to support national associations of local governments NGOs and other major groups to establish national Local Agenda 21 campaigns.
Implementation: The CSD should work with ICLEI and the international associations of local government to prepare a review of possible measures by national governments to provide a supportive policy and fiscal framework for successful implementation of Local Agenda 21s.
Rationale: One of the most successful and meaningful outcomes since Rio has been action at the local level to prepare local plans for sustainable development, notably through the Local Agenda 21 initiative (Chapter 28 of Agenda 21 encourages local authorities to prepare local action plans - Local Agenda 21 - in consensus with their local communities). Progress has been most widespread in countries which have national Local Agenda 21 campaigns organized and supported by national associations of local government.
4.3 Indicators of Sustainability
We call for: Recognition of the need to use indicators appropriately as a tool for community decision making. Data must be objective as possible, and all 'interests' must be involved (everyone who is impacted). As governments we commit to promote grass roots women's participation, particularly those involved in the Habitat process, and gender training for local Agenda 21 groups
Implementation: The involvement of the stakeholder in the choice of indicators at the local, national and international level is fundamentally important, and top down, non-representative processes should not be tolerated. The CSD should, with governments and others, ensure many processes continue in the next five years of work of the CSD.
Rationale: The indicators that are measured should evoke happiness when they are improving and unhappiness when they are getting worse. If the change doesn't matter to the community, then you are not monitoring the right thing. If the process of developing the shared knowledge, shared understanding and shared vision for the future of your community isn't enjoyable, then you should figure out a different way to do it. In assessing progress toward the goals in Chapter 40 of Agenda 21, it will be much easier to measure activity than to evaluate results. There have been many important and well-conducted international, national and local initiatives dedicated to producing better and more relevant data. No one process represents any major groups or communities nor speaks for them. In developing information and indicators there is no one right way for a community to proceed. There are a variety of models from which one might choose, and there are more models all the time. Communities all over the world in vastly different economic, political, social and environmental circumstances, are experimenting with ways and means to develop information and indicators for neighborhoods, communities or nations. Through the process they are also building consensus on what actually matters to the future of the groups involved.
4.4 Tourism
We call on: The CSD to include tourism in its next 5 year programme of work; strengthen and adequately fund the sustainable tourism office within the UNEP industry office that would gather a set of best practices and create a database for all groups to access.
Implementation: The Special Session to include tourism within its next work programme and that UNEP should be entrusted with adequate new and additional funds sufficient for this task. Governments to establish sustainable tourism policies and regulations, ensuring: responsibly zoned development; conservation and protection of natural and cultural heritage and resource;
Rationale: Tourism is the largest industry in the world, surpassing auto, steel, petroleum and weaponry. By the year 2010, it is expected there will be 935 million international travelers annually. The tourism industry can positively or negatively impact the global environment, and it is the responsibility of the CSD and UNEP to influence the course of the tourism industry toward sustainability.
4.5 Occupied Peoples
We call for: Empowerment of ethno-cultural groups currently subsisting under occupation by foreign national powers. Provisions must be made for access to and utilization of natural resources central to social and cultural autonomy and economic sustainable development.
4.6 Health
We call for: Insuring human health globally, for current and future generations, governments need to address the following environmental issues: treatment and prevention of: global warming; hazardous waste, including nuclear, chemical and biological materials; contamination of fresh water supplies; ocean pollution; contamination of air quality; deforestation; and desertification.
Rationale: There is clear evidence of rising rates, globally, of cancers, tuberculosis, lung diseases, lead poisoning, all of which are associated with various forms of environmental degradation. The most important consequence of environmental sustainability is the health and productive capacity of human beings. Healthy, productive people sustain healthy societies and economies.
4.7 Culture of Peace
We call for: Governments to move from a culture of violence and war to a culture of peace by structuring their economies so that they are not dependent on military. The UN should encourage transparency in arms transfers with its register and should facilitate in non-violent prevention and resolution of conflicts
Implementation: The Special Session should acknowledge the need to reduce military production, spending and arms trafficking in order to provide funds for development. Reduce military expenditures by 5% per year for 5 years, redirecting a portion of those funds to sustainable development; Shift research and development from defense-based industries to equitable development and socially responsible production to rectify environmental degradation; Agree by the year 2000 to a convention for the abolition of nuclear weapons; Clean up and dispose of all toxic military waste in an environmentally sound manner; Implement an immediate ban on the production, use, sale and transfer of antipersonnel landmines; Allocate funds and technology for removal of the more than 100 million mines already planted in 64 countries; Promote an international voluntary military force under Chapter 7 of the United Nations Charter to be used when absolutely necessary and promote environmentally friendly non-violent resolution to conflict whenever possible; Make non-violent conflict prevention and resolution training a part of all school curricula throughout the education cycle, and end obligatory military service; Promote community planning to prevent conflicts; Develop a new science "Public Peace" based on the model of "Public Health." This would involve keeping track throughout the world of where manmade violence was breaking out. Analysis of the data would show how it might be controlled. Early intervention would alleviate the need for military solutions and the resulting environmental degradation; Report responsibly to the UN Register of Conventional Weapons and adopt a Code of Conduct for Arms Transfers in order to restrain weapons proliferation
Rationale: In keeping with the UN Agenda for Development, we believe that peace and development are indivisible and development cannot proceed easily in societies where military concerns are at or near the center of life. Societies whose economic effort in substantial part is devoted to military production inevitably diminish the prospect of their people for development.
5 Institutional and Legal Issues
The Special Session of the General Assembly offers the opportunity to deal with some of the institutional issues that have developed since the Rio Summit.
5.1 United Nations Environment Programme
We call for: Renew and strengthen UNEP's mandate to: (a) adopt a new governance model for UNEP with an Executive Board of Ministers meeting between Governing Councils; (b) adopt further reforms consistent with the Nairobi Declaration adopted at Governing Council 19, with such reforms reviewed and agreed at the 52nd General Assembly and UNEP Governing Council 20; and (c) submit regular reports to the CSD on priority activities and future program plans.
Implementation: The Governing Council needs to meet as soon as possible to adopt the revised governance structure, and thereafter the reform process called for at UNEP GC 19 should be undertaken with a view to forwarding proposals for further reforms to the 52nd session of the UNGA and the 20th session of UNEP's Governing Council.
Rationale: The Nairobi Declaration agreed-to at the nineteenth session of UNEP's Governing Council provides a very constructive framework for UNEP's continuation and future operations. Among other parts of its mandate it is essential that a strong, effectively, adequately funded and sharply focussed UNEP a) analyze the state of the global environment and assess global and regional environmental trend, provide policy advice, early warning information and catalyze and promote international cooperation and action; b) further the development of international environmental law, including coherent linkages among existing international environmental conventions; c) strengthen its role in the coordination of environmental activities in the UN system; and d) promote greater awareness and facilities far more effective cooperation among all sectors of society and actors involved in the implementation of the international environmental agenda. UNEP's present governance structure is in need of urgent reform. A new Executive Board of Environmental Ministers or the equivalent there of needs to be established to act between the Governing Council. Clearly the Nairobi-based centered Committee on Permanent Representatives has an important continuing role to play but there also is an urgent need for Environment Ministers to take a much more direct, lead role in guiding UNEP forward. In addition UNEP and governments need to be much more innovative and visionary in reaching out to and involving NGOs, major groups and civil society in UNEP's decision making, information delivery and program implementation.
5.2 High-Level Coordination of Conference Follow Up
Ensure effective coordination and create a dynamic exchange between the follow up from the different UN Conferences and Summits. There should be joint high-level sessions of Commissions dealing with similar issues each year. For example if poverty is being discussed the Commission for Social Development with the Commission on Sustainable Development should be arranged at Ministerial level. The High-level Session of the Economic and Social Council should convene regular joint High-level segments of the Commission on Sustainable Development with other relevant Commissions (e.g. Social Development).
5.3 Election and Term of Commission Chairs
The Chair of the CSD and other UN Commissions should be elected at the beginning of Commission sessions and assume office from the conclusion of the session through to the end of the next session of the CSD (or other Commissions).
5.4 CSD Agenda and Work Programme
The Special Session should continue to be the high-level policy forum and a forum for sharing experiences. The next 5 years should see a more focussed agenda for the CSD. Such a focussed agenda should include oceans, forests, freshwater, tourism, chemicals and cross sectoral issues such as finance, capacity building, sustainable agriculture/food systems, technological transfer, poverty, education, consumption and production patterns, trade and sustainable development and transport - as well as continuing to address emerging issues. The CSD should include a public education and dissemination of information strategy in each aspect of its work programme to heighten awareness on critical issues and governmental compliance in achieving the goals of Rio.
5.5 Earth Summit III
Convene a Special Session of the General Assembly in 2002 to review the progress and roadblocks to sustainable development. This Special session should be held at the highest level.
5.6 Integrated Monitoring Frameworks
We call for: The establishment through DPCSD of an integrated comprehensive framework - making effective use of modern information and communications technology - for systematic monitoring of the implementation of all the Rio agreements as well as the agreements of the other recent global conferences.
Implementation: Develop a comprehensive framework - to be accessible online - to enable the systematic monitoring and implementation of the agreements of the "Rio cluster" of United Nations conferences and proceedings; develop an integrated, fully searchable database that incorporates the text of all these agreements, that documents initiatives - including best practices - taken by intergovernmental agencies, governments and major groups, and that incorporates data and indicators that can help show current status and trends towards sustainability; the use of geographic information systems as a tool to assist in organizing and integrating information on measures; and measures to support capacity building in the use of information and communications technology - including the strengthening of information and communications infrastructure in developing countries
Rationale: There is currently no systematic framework in place by which it is possible to assess and monitor the extent and specifics of implementation of the Rio agreements. Modern information and communications technology offers a range of powerful tools to organize and integrate a broad base of diverse information, and to make it widely accessible. There are many areas of overlap between the Rio agreements and the other "Rio cluster" agreements - all of which, in one way or another relate to the attainment of a sustainable common future - so there is a need for an integrated process of monitoring implementation of the whole set of agreements.
5.7 Peer-Review Assessment
The CSD should establish a process of peer-reviewed assessment of each country's performance on the implementation of sustainable development building on the model on work done by OECD.
5.8 Secretary General's High-Level Advisory Board
The High-Level Advisory Board should be closed down. It does not appear to have contributed anything substantial to the CSD process nor has there been evidence of a meaningful relationship between it and the partners / major groups that are involved in the follow-up process for the Rio agreements.
5.8.1 Committee on Natural Resources
Streamline the relationship between the Committee on Natural Resources and the CSD.
5.9 Coordination of Governmental Positions
There should be a clear commitment to facilitating effective coordination of governmental positions in each of the different fora they are involved with.
United Nations Center for Human Settlements
We call for: The General Assembly should recommend a review of the work being carried out in the UN system on human settlement issues with the intention of strengthening the Center for Human Settlements as the UN coordinator of all work on human settlement issues through the partnership concept for implementation of the Habitat Agenda.
Implementation: A holistic, integrated approach, acknowledging the interconnectedness and interdependence of all people with the natural environment, and encompassing a regional urban-to-rural view is necessary. Universal engagement of the population, participation by the user groups and stakeholders in all phases of the process, forging of public and private partnerships, and conscious efforts at community building as a vital force must become key elements of all national action plans.
Enlightened, innovative science and appropriate technology, adjusted to local human and natural conditions and resources, mindful of the accumulated wisdom of traditional knowledge, and employing the proper materials and methods of construction for optimal environmental and human health are critical for the social, economic, environmental and cultural sustainability of settlements. The close coordination of the work of the CSD and UNCHS, as well as the other pertinent UN agencies with programs on settlements, especially UNEP and UNDP is imperative. In addition to monitoring progress towards the implementation of the Habitat Agenda, holding a 5-year Habitat Review would help to re-focus world attention on this multifactorial issue.
Rationale: Few other human activities have greater impact on the natural world than human settlements. If the cumulative effect of land development, use of material resources, infrastructure, energy and industry is antagonistic to the survival of the planet, it is ultimately antagonistic to the survival of the human species itself.
5.11 United Nations Development Programme
We call for: The work of UNDP's Capacity 21 programme to focus in the next five year phase of CSD to; Help countries produce their National Sustainable Development Strategies; Help work out programmes that would see those strategies enacted; and support the development of Local Agenda 21s.
5.12 World Trade Organization
There should be a formalization of the relationship between the United Nations and the World Trade Organization - in particular, between the CSD and the WTO's Committee on Trade and Environment - (this could take the form of a Memorandum of Understanding).
6 Major Groups and Partnerships
6.1 Dialogue
We call for: Continuing the formal Dialogue Sessions between major groups and Governments through the next five year programme of the CSD and convene Major Group Dialogue Sessions at the CSD Intersessional Meetings beginning in 1998. The formal Dialogue Sessions would, inter alia, assist Major Groups to focus on the issues being discussed that year.
6.2 New and Additional Partners
We call for: Extending the concept of major groups to a partnership model as developed in the Habitat Agenda and grant partner / major group status to parliamentarians, older persons, and the education community.
6.3 Indigenous Peoples
We call for: The application of the principles contained in the UN Draft Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. This declaration should be adopted in its present form. The recognition of the Indigenous Peoples' territorial rights, cultural rights, their knowledge systems, their sustainable land use systems and their rights to self-determination is a necessary pre-condition to their playing a meaningful role in global sustainability. This includes the recognition of the right of Indigenous Peoples to identify themselves and be recognized as Indigenous Peoples. The CSD should examine how these rights are being undermined by international finance and financial institutions and trade liberalization within the WTO framework. The CSD should monitor the Human Genome Diversity Project.
Implementation: The CSD to more effectively review Indigenous Peoples' contributions to global sustainability. The CSD should focus more on Indigenous Peoples' issues in a proactive and coordinated manner. Earth Summit II should reinforce the call for the involvement of Indigenous Peoples at the highest levels within the UN structure, including the creation of a permanent forum for Indigenous Peoples.
6.4 Women's Access to Resources
We call for: A pledge to enhance all governance structures, global and national, through the next century by adhering to the fundamental principles of equal representation and accountability; a pledge to achieve gender balance in governance, expanding, enhancing and improving affirmative action programs or other incentives that will encourage and support the leadership and involvement of women in political decision-making; a pledge to apply a gender perspective in all aspects of the implementation of Agenda 21; a commitment to promote grass roots women's participation, particularly those involved in the Habitat process, and gender training for local Agenda 21 groups.
We call for: The removal of legislative, policy, administrative, and customary barriers to women's equal rights to natural resources, including access to and control over land and other forms of property, credit, inheritance, information and appropriate new technology.
Implementation: Recognition of the pervasive and systemic violation of women's human rights, that women are significant agents for local and global change, and that gender equality is essential to achieving sustainable and equitable development.
6.5 Youth
We call for: Governments to report on and share national and bioregional programs to implement Earth Summit commitments on youth, renew their commitment to involve youth in all levels of decision-making for sustainability by including accountable youth leaders on their national delegations and in all other processes; increased recognition of by-youth, for-youth and inter-generational NGO initiatives toward social justice, economic equity, micro-enterprise development and ecological sustainability; increase support for north-south grassroots youth partnerships for sustainability; and increased support on all levels for awareness, skill-sharing and empowerment of youth as agents of change.
Implementation: The Special Session should be open to new and innovative ways of involving accountable youth NGOs and voices from diverse networks and organizations in the sustainable development process and debate. Governments should cooperate on all levels to ensure that the coming generation can realize their full potential as present and future leaders.
Rationale: Many governments have taken strong steps to work with youth in recent years, and are achieving good intergenerational partnership. However, more remains to be done, and financial mechanisms should be found to support southern youth involvement and empowerment.
6.6 Older Persons
We call for: Recognition of the critical importance of the growing global aging population in relation to sustainability and include older persons as a major group.
Implementation - Goals: Identify and utilize the skills of the older person at the local, national, and international level; Promote older person involvement in the activities of civil society; Ensure that each country supports, practices and enforces the United Nations Principles for Older Persons, in pursuance of the International Plan of Action on Ageing.
Implementation - Activities: Involve older persons in the education process as "visiting experts," especially with youth, on assorted environment and development activities; Both in the developing and developed countries, utilize the knowledge of and skills of the older person in areas of technology, management, agriculture, family care, medicine, and cultural heritage; Encourage the involvement and participation of older persons in the decision-making processes for a sustainable future; Develop materials for the older population, appropriate to their cultural heritage and values, that address issues for the older person as both consumer and producer.
Implementation - Means: Strengthen the Ageing Unit of the Social Policy and Development Division of the Department for Policy Coordination and Sustainable Development (DPCSD), which acts as a focal point for interagency cooperation in the United Nations; Disseminate and apply the United Nations Principles for Older Persons, many of the principles having application to sustainable development; Provide and enhance accessibility and mobility for the older population; Launch information, education and communication campaigns on ageing and sustainable development to promote positive images of the ageing as a subject of general social relevance in which everyone participates; Provide key roles for older persons as voluntary or paid resource persons in public awareness campaigns on cultural traditions and heritage in the environment; Promote the expansion or establishment of intergenerational policies and programs; Institute national programs to promote productive ageing; Strengthen or establish national coordinating mechanisms on ageing; Promote the establishment and effective functioning of organizations of older persons.
Rationale: Older persons, although receiving recognition during World Summits on population, social concerns, women, and the city, were overlooked in Section 3 of Agenda 21. Their contributions to a sustainable future as a "major group" must be considered a priority. The growth of the global older population, citizens who are living longer productive lives, is one of the most challenging demographic trends of the twenty-first century. A steady stream of one million persons a month now crosses the threshold of age 60, and 80% of these are in the south. The total number of those age 60 and above is projected to reach 600 million by the year 2001 and go on to reach 1.2 billion by the 2025, over 70% in the south. This snapshot serves as a small illustration of a far-reaching, if quiet, demographic revolution now affecting the social and economic structures of societies. Clearly, the challenge is great. Responses have been guided by the "International Plan of Action on Ageing," A/37/51. In resolution A/45/106, the General Assembly designated "1 October the International Day for the Elderly." By its resolution A/46/91, the Assembly adopted the "United Nations Principles for Older Persons" with five major themes: independence, participation, self-fulfillment, dignity and care. In 1995, by resolution A/50/141, the Assembly established "1999 as the International Year of Older Persons." The framework for the year contains four major themes: situation of older persons; life-long individual development; multi generational relationships; and development and the ageing population. "The Framework" is outlined in the report of the Secretary General, A/50/114. Additional sources of information are available from the Web site http:/www.un.org/dpcsd/dspd/iyop.htm -- International Year of Older Persons.
The Habitat Agenda, Chapter 1, Art. 17, reflects the member states' awareness of an ageing global population: "Older persons are entitled to lead fulfilling and productive lives and should have opportunities for full participation in their communities and society, and all decision making regarding their well-being, especially their shelter needs. Their many contributions to the political, social and economic processes of human settlements should be recognized and valued. Special attention should be given to meeting the evolving housing and mobility needs in order to enable them to continue to lead rewarding lives in their communities." The importance of Older Persons as a major group is found in the wealth of information, history, energy, and experience accumulated through their collective lifetimes. Given the size and potential force of this population, we cannot afford to ignore their needs. In a multigenerational society, older persons offer a generational link for humanity. They are vested with the responsibility of passing on a legacy. We must capitalize on the great human resource potential this major group offers. It is an exceedingly diversified pool of experienced and talented men and women with skills in environmental management, public policy, conservation, technology, prevention and leadership at every level, who can contribute expertise to every aspect of environment and development. Their knowledge, wisdom and prestige can be vital to educating, organizing, and mobilizing people and communities to ensure that environmentally sustainable development is practiced.
6.7 Inclusion
We call for: Recognition that discrimination on the basis of race, gender, economic status, ethnic background, religion, political belief, sexual orientation, age and disability continue to prevent the full participation of many social groups in developing and implementing strategies for sustainable development. Address these obstacles by implementing measures inter alia: to confront prejudice and hatred through educational programmes and relevant changes in national curricula; invest in the empowerment and capacity building of marginalized groups; remove structural and legal impediments to the fully inclusive participation of all social groups.