COMMITTEE ONTRADE AND ENVIRONMENT
UNCED Follow-up: Results ofthethirdsession oftheCommission onSustainable Development
This document contains theSecretariat 'sNote ontheresults ofthethird session ofthe
Commission onSustainable Development inEnglish. Itwillbetranslated intoFrench andSpanish
assoonastheReport oftheCSD onitsthirdsession isavailable inthose languages.
95-1320RESTRICTED
WORLD TRADE WT/CTE/W/7
18May1995
ORGANIZATION(95-1320)
Committee onTrade andEnvironment
UNCED FOLLOW-UP: RESULTS OFTHE THIRD SESSION OFTHE
COMMISSION ONSUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Note bytheSecretariat
TheUnited Nations Commission onSustainable Development (CSD), thebody established
tofollow-up theresults oftheUNConference onEnvironment andDevelopment (UNCED) and
Agenda 21,helditsthirdsession from 11-28 April inNewYork. ThisNote hasbeenprepared to
provide information ontheoutcome ofthissession oftheCSD; itup-dates reports ontheCSD's
firstandsecond sessions (TRE/W/14, L/7500). TheSecretariat submitted areport totheCSD, on
itsownresponsibility, ofwork ontrade andenvironment intheWTO since theCSD's1994
session, contained inWT/CTE/W/3.1
TheCSD'smulti-year thematic programme ofwork tofollow-up theUNCED results,
adopted bytheCSD atitsfirstsession2,andadescription ofthevarious "clusters" ofissues is
described inTRE/W/14 andL/7500. Thissession focused onthesectoral issues ofland,
desertification, forests andbiological diversity included under Cluster G.Notably, theCSD
decided toestablish under itsaegis anopen-ended adhocIntergovernmental Panel onForests in
order tocoordinate further work inthisareaandbuild ontheUNCED Forest Principles and
Chapter 11ofAgenda 21,aswellasother international initiatives related toforests. ThePanel
willbecomposed ofgovernmental representatives, withintergovernmental organizations and
non-governmental organizations participating asobservers. ThePanel'sprogramme ofwork
includes consideration oftrade andenvironment relating toforest products andservices (seethe
Decision onCombating Deforestation below).
Thissession focused alsoonthefollowing aspects ofthecross-sectoral issues: combating
desertification anddrought; sustainable mountain development (Cluster A:Critical elements of
sustainability); financial resources andmechanisms (Cluster B:Financial resources and
mechanisms); environmentally-sound management ofbiotechnology; transfer ofenvironmentally
sound technology; science forsustainable development (Cluster C:Education, science, transfer
ofenvironmentally-sound technologies, cooperation andcapacity-building); integrating
environment anddevelopment indecision-making; information fordecision-making (Cluster D:
Decision-making structures); andtheroleofwomen; youth; indigenous people; NGOs; local
authorities; workers; industry; thescientific community; andfarmers (Cluster E:Roles of
major groups). TheReport oftheCSDonitsthird session ,containing alltheedited Decisions of
thecross-sectoral andsectoral issues, willbesubmitted bytheCSD totheEconomic andSocial
Council inJuly1995.
Specifically relevant totheCommittee istheDecision onTrade, Environment and
Sustainable Development, which iscontained inAppendix ItothisNote. Reference ismade also
1SeealsotheReportoftheUNSecretary-Generalontrade,environmentandsustainabledevelopment,preparedbytheUNCTADSecretariat,
astheCSD'staskmanager fortrade andenvironment (E/CN.17/1995/12), andthesubmissions ofUNCTAD andUNEP ontheiractivities
related totrade, environment andsustainable development, background documents 7and8fortheCSD'sthirdsession.
2AdoptionofaMulti-yearThematicProgrammeofWorkoftheCommission,ReportoftheSecretary-General,E/CN.17/1993/5,1June1993.WT/CTE/W/7
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intheNote toissues related totrade andenvironment which were dealtwithintheCSD Decisions
oncross-sectoral andsectoral issues andintheChairman 'sSummary ofthehighlevelsegment of
themeeting.
I. CROSS-SECTORAL ISSUES
Thefollowing Decisions oncross-sectoral issues arerelevant totrade andenvironment.
Chapter 2:Decision onTrade, Environment andSustainable Development
TheDecision makes reference totheCSD'sinitial perspectives forconsideration in
subsequent work ontrade andenvironment issues inits1994 Decision, which iscontained as
Appendix IofL/7500. Inthe1995 Decision, theCSD "considered anumber ofkeyissues related
tothelinkages between trade, environment andsustainable development. These include product
measures andmarket access, process standards andcompetitiveness, internalization of
environmental externalities andtrade, multilateral environmental agreements andtrade policy,
environmental factors astrading opportunities, andtrade policies andtheenvironment."
(paragraph two)
Asinthe1994 Decision, thisnewDecision emphasizes theimportance oftrade
liberalization, complemented bytheadoption ofsound environmental policies, increating the
conditions forsustainable development. Inparagraph four, theCSD "notes thattheUruguay
Round Agreements represent asubstantial liberalization ofinternational trade, thestrengthening of
multilateral rules anddisciplines toensure stability andpredictability intrade relations, the
establishing ofrules anddisciplines innewareas andthefounding ofanewinstitutional
framework intheform oftheWTO, withanintegrated dispute settlement mechanism which
should avoid unilateral actions which areagainst international trade rules. Theagreements thus
represent anessential element fortheachievement ofglobal sustained economic growth forthe
benefit ofallcountries, which isafundamental element forachieving sustainable development. In
thiscontext, itcallsfortheurgent andfullimplementation oftheagreements contained inthe
Final ActoftheUruguay Round, stresses theurgent needfortrade liberalization, including
through substantial reduction oftariffs andother barriers totrade andtheelimination of
discriminatory treatment ininternational trade relations, andimproved access tomarkets ofall
countries, inparticular those ofdeveloped countries."
TheDecision notes thattheCSD "stresses theimportance ofthework oftheCommittee
onTrade andEnvironment oftheWTO, inaccordance withitsmandate, which callsupon the
Committee tomake appropriate recommendations onwhether anymodifications oftheprovisions
ofthemultilateral trading system arerequired, compatible withtheopen, equitable and
non-discriminatory nature ofthesystem ..."Thelanguage which isusedinparagraph fiveis
taken from theMarrakesh Decision establishing theCommittee.
Paragraph seven concerning MEAs refers toparagraph 32ofthe1994 Decision
(paragraph eight ofL/7500) which emphasizes theresults ofUNCED relating totrade,
environment andsustainable development, including Principle 12oftheRioDeclaration and
paragraph 2.22ofAgenda 21.
Chapter 3:Decision onCombating Poverty
TheDecision notes thattheCSD "recalls thattheRioDeclaration embodies theprinciple
thateradicating poverty isanindispensable requirement ofsustainable development ..."and
"stresses thatthelinkbetween poverty eradication andsustainable development iscomplex andWT/CTE/W/7
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must beclearly understood. ...TheCSD isdeeply convinced thateconomic development, social
development andenvironmental protection areinterdependent andmutually reinforcing
components ofsustainable development, which istheframework forefforts toachieve ahigher
quality oflifeforallpeople. Equitable social development thatrecognizes empowering ofthe
poortoutilise environmental resources sustainably isanecessary foundation forsustainable
development. Broad-based andsustained economic growth inthecontext ofsustainable
development isnecessary tosustain social development andsocial justice."
TheCSD "affirms thateconomic growth willcontinue tobeimportant tocombat poverty
inthelongrunparticularly indeveloping countries, butreliance cannot beplaced oneconomic
growth alone tocombat poverty. There isanurgent needtoformulate orstrengthen policies and
strategies geared tosubstantially reducing overall poverty intheshortest possible time, and
reducing inequalities, andtoeradicate absolute poverty byatarget datetobespecified byeach
country initsnational context. Such strategies should alsoincorporate measures toensure
environmental sustainability. Theessential taskoferadicating poverty isanindispensable
requirement forsustainable development. Strategies aimed atpoverty eradication arealso
necessary toprevent theover-exploiting ofnatural resources outofsheer survival strategies,
which leads tothedegradation ofresources required tosustain populations overthelongterm."
TheCSD "reaffirms thatafavourable international economic environment, andthecritical
provision offinancial andtechnical assistance flows areessential catalysts towards poverty
eradication. Better terms oftrade, better access tomarkets, particularly forlabour-intensive
products, foragricultural andagro-based products, andthose ofmedium andsmall-scale
enterprises, access toandtransfer ofenvironmentally sound technology (ESTs) onfavourable
terms, including onconcessional andpreferential terms, asmutually agreed, taking intoaccount
theneedtoprotect intellectual property rights aswellasthespecial needs ofdeveloping countries
are,therefore, alsoimportant conditions forsustainability. ...Transfer ofESTs isalso
indispensable fortheadoption ofsustainable production patterns bothinindustry and
agriculture."... TheCSD also"stresses thatactivities geared towards eradication ofpoverty
should beaccompanied bymeaningful programmes which aimsubstantially toreduce
environmentally andsocially unsustainable patterns ofproduction andconsumption."
Chapter 4:Decision onChanging Production andConsumption Patterns
IntheDecision, theCSD "affirms thatwhile poverty results incertain kinds of
environmental stress, themajor cause ofthecontinued deterioration oftheglobal environment is
theunsustainable pattern ofconsumption andproduction, particularly inindustrialized countries
which isamatter ofgrave concern, aggravating poverty andimbalances" and"reaffirms theneed
tochange thepatterns ofconsumption andproduction thataredetrimental tosustainable
development. Inthecontext ofcommon butdifferentiated responsibilities inthisfield, the
developed countries bearaspecial responsibility andhaveagreed totaketheleadbytaking
effective measures forchange intheirowncountries. Inthatcontext, theCSD reiterates that
national authorities should endeavour topromote theinternalization ofenvironmental costs andthe
useofeconomic instruments, asappropriate, taking intoaccount thepolluter-pays principle." The
CSD "recognizes thatGovernments should continue toimprove theirdecisionmaking soasto
integrate environmental, economic andsocial considerations which willinvolve theuseofarange
ofdifferent policy approaches andinstruments."
TheCSD "urges Governments atalllevels, business andindustry, andconsumers to
intensify efforts atreducing theenergy andmaterial intensities ofproduction andconsumption,
through improving energy efficiency, taking energy-saving measures, technological innovations
andtransfer, increased waste recovery, reusing recycling ofmaterials. TheCSD stresses thatall
countries have, andshould exploit opportunities forfurther improving efficiency inresourceWT/CTE/W/7
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consumption andforreducing environmentally harmful by-products ofcurrent consumption and
production patterns inaccordance withnational priorities andinternational agreements, for
example, bypromoting theuseofrenewable energy sources. Inthiscontext, taking intoaccount
theparticular needs andconditions ofdeveloping countries, andbased ontheprinciple ofcommon
butdifferentiated responsibilities, [it]urges developed countries tointensify efforts toencourage
thetransfer ofappropriate technologies todeveloping countries toassist them insuchefforts."
TheCSD "calls forthepromotion ofinternalization ofenvironmental costs taking into
account thepolluter paysprinciple, withdueregard tothepublic interest andwithout distorting
international trade andinvestment. Inthisregard, itwelcomes progress made sofar,including in
countries witheconomies intransition anddeveloping countries, infurther analysing, adapting and
applying various measures andpolicy instruments designed tointernalize environmental
externalities. TheCSD recognizes thatcommand-and-control measures andsocial andeconomic
instruments allhavetheirroletoplayinchanging production andconsumption patterns.
Governments should takeintoaccount localandnational conditions indesigning andimplementing
suchinstruments. Inthelongrun,economic andother market-based instruments arelikely tobe
more costeffective inbringing about sustained changes inproducer andconsumer behaviour. In
thisregard, theCSD invites Governments toconsider introducing economic measures, including
taxandsubsidies reform designed toreduce negative environmental impacts andsupport
employment."
TheCSD "emphasizes thatstrengthened international cooperation inharmonizing criteria
forthesetting ofvoluntary product standards, withdueregard tothespecific environmental,
social andeconomic conditions indeveloping producer/exporting countries, should takeinto
account concerns about market access andthecompetitiveness ofproducts andservices. Inthis
regard, theCSD callsonGovernment tointensify efforts toencourage thetransfer ofappropriate
technology."
TheCSD adopted thefollowing work programme onchanging production and
consumption patterns:
A. Identifying thepolicy implications ofprojecting trends inconsumption and
production patterns, including, interalia,resource consumption andassociated
environmental, social andeconomic impacts, withparticular reference to
developing countries 'efforts atmeeting basic needs, eradicating poverty and
achieving economic growth;
B. Assessing theimpact ondeveloping countries, especially theleast-developed
countries andsmall island developing States, ofchanges inconsumption and
production indeveloped countries;
C. Evaluating theeffectiveness ofpolicy measures intended tochange consumption
andproduction patterns, suchascommand-and-control, economic andsocial
instruments, government procurement policies andguidelines, forexample through
theinternalization ofenvironmental costs;
D. Eliciting time-bound voluntary commitment from countries tomake measurable
progress onthose sustainable development goals thathaveanespecially high
priority atthenational level;
E. Revision oftheUNGuidelines forConsumer Protection toinclude guidelines for
sustainable consumption patterns.WT/CTE/W/7
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Chapter 33:Decision onFinancial Resources andMechanisms
TheCSD "emphasizes that,ingeneral, thefinancing fortheimplementation ofAgenda 21
willcome from acountry 'sownpublic andprivate sectors. Fordeveloping countries, particularly
theleastdeveloped countries, official development assistance (ODA) isamain source ofexternal
funding; substantial newandadditional funding forsustainable development andthe
implementation ofAgenda 21willberequired. ...Thedecline ofODA, bothinabsolute terms
andasapercentage ofGNP, remains amatter ofgreat concern totheCommission."
TheCSD "urges thedeveloped countries tocontinue pursuing policies aimed atincreasing
theflowofODA todeveloping countries, consistent withthecommitments theymade atthe
UNCED. ...withtheobjective ofachieving theUNtarget of0.7percentofGNP, asreaffirmed
inChapter 33.13 ofAgenda 21,assoonaspossible." TheCSD "stresses theneedforthe
fulfilment ofthefinancial commitments contained inAgenda 21"and"encourages themobilization
ofdomestic financial resources, interalia,through theuseofeconomic instruments andpolicy
reforms inbothdeveloped anddeveloping countries andtheestablishment ofnational
environmental funds."
TheDecision states thatthe"CSD 'sreview oftheuseofeconomic instruments in
developed countries, countries witheconomies intransition anddeveloping countries demonstrates
clearly that-depending ontheirspecific conditions -theyhaveinvarying degrees attempted to
achieve alessdistortionary taxsystem byintroducing environmental taxes. Inaddition, valuable
experience isbeing gained intheuseofthevarious other economic instruments. TheCSD
emphasizes thatfuture discussions oneconomic instruments should explore ways andmeans of
overcoming obstacles totheirimplementation indeveloped countries, developing countries and
countries witheconomies intransition. Particular attention should bepaidtospecific country
situations andthephasing outofenvironmentally-unfriendly practices, aswellastoproblems of
capacity building indeveloping countries andtodistributional problems."
TheCSD "underscores theimportance ofstrengthening national capacities andcapabilities
intheuseofeconomic instruments, including theelimination ofenvironmentally-unfriendly
subsidies andother practices, inthecontext ofnational strategies andpolicies forsustainable
development. Itrecommends thatthese efforts should besupported byGovernments and
international organizations, inparticular UNDP, UNEP, UNCTAD, IMF, World Bank andthe
UNregional commissions."
Initsdiscussion ofinnovative mechanisms forresource mobilization, theCSD mentioned
thattheInter-sessional adhocOpen-ended Working Group onFinance considered thefeasibility
andutility ofsuchmeasures asanenvironmental usercharge onairtransport, activities
implemented jointly andinternationally tradeable CO2permits. Itnotes that"theairtransport of
passengers andcargo isasource ofenvironmentally-damaging emissions andconsiders it
worthwhile toexamine indetail aproperly designed environmental usercharge onairtransport if
anin-depth study demonstrated itsneedandfeasibility." ...and"recommends thatthestudy
address theenvironmental, economic, legal, administrative, andpolitical aspects ofsucha
mechanism, taking intoaccount theparticular needs andconditions ofdeveloping countries."
TheDecision alsoreflects theCSD'sdiscussion on"internationally tradeable CO2permits
andactivities implemented jointly reflects concerns andrecognition about theirextreme complexity
andmakes itclear thatwork undertaken inthisregard should bepursued inthecontext ofthe
UNFramework Convention onClimate Change, taking intoaccount thesituation ofcountries,
particularly thedeveloping countries, asspecified intherelevant paragraphs oftheConvention."
TheCSD noted theoutcome ofthefirstConference oftheParties totheClimate Change
Convention, inparticular thelaunching ofapilotphase foractivities implemented jointly.WT/CTE/W/7
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TheCSD "emphasizes thatfinancing thetransfer ofESTs andbiotechnology should be
considered inthecontext oftherelevant chapters ofAgenda 21,...onfavourable terms, including
concessional andpreferential terms, asmutually agreed, taking intoaccount theneedtoprotect
intellectual property rights aswellasthespecial needs ofdeveloping counties forthe
implementation ofAgenda 21." Itnotes that"fostering investments inESTs requires that
Governments promote afavourable environment forthetransfer oftechnology, theadoption of
favourable policies forbusiness development andthecreation ofawider framework toencourage
investment inthetechnology development process, including research, development andadaptation
oftechnology. Theparticular problems ofsmall andmedium-sized enterprises were emphasized.
TheCSD "recommends thattheneedforandeffectiveness ofESTrights banks andthepractical
feasibility ofestablishing suchbanks should befurther studied."3
II. SECTORAL ISSUES
Thefollowing Decisions onsectoral issues arerelevant totrade andenvironment.
Chapter 11:Decision onCombating Deforestation
Combating deforestation wasoneofthesectoral focuses ofthissession oftheCSD. In
theDecision, theCSD "calls forfurther attention tothecross-sectoral factors which arethe
underlying causes ofdeforestation anddegradation offorests suchasproduction andconsumption
patterns, poverty, population growth, insufficient environmental education andknowledge, terms
oftrade, discriminatory trade practices andunsustainable policies andpractices related tosuch
sectors asagriculture, energy andtrade aswellastoforestry. Inthisregard, itstresses theneed
foraddressing policy issues including theconservation, valuation andsustainable useofforests in
anintegrated andholistic manner. Italsoconsiders thatthepotential roleofvoluntary
certification schemes withregard tosustainable forest management, trade inforest products, and
consumer education should befurther studied, ensuring fulltransparency andparticipation ofall
interested parties."
TheCSD decided toestablish under itsaegis anopen-ended adhocIntergovernmental
Panel onForests inorder tocoordinate further work inthisareaandbuild ontheUNCED
Non-legally binding authoritative statement ofprinciples foraglobal consensus onthe
management, conservation andsustainable development ofalltypes offorests (Forest Principles)
andChapter 11ofAgenda 21,aswellasother international initiatives related toforests. The
Panel willbecomposed ofgovernmental representatives, withintergovernmental organizations and
non-governmental organizations participating asobservers.
Inpursuing consensus andformulation ofcoordinated proposals foraction, thePanel
should consider thefollowing main interrelated categories ofissues: (i)implementation of
UNCED decisions related toforests atthenational andinternational levelincluding an
examination ofsectoral andcross-sectoral linkages; (ii)international cooperation infinancial
assistance, andtechnology transfer; (iii)scientific research, forest assessment anddevelopment of
criteria andindicators forsustainable forest management; (iv)trade andenvironment relating to
forest products andservices; (v)international organizations andmultilateral institutions and
instruments, including appropriate legalmechanisms.
3TheDecision defines environmentally sound technology rights banks as"ownership arrangements thatactasabroker foracquiring
patent rights tosounder technologies andmake themavailable tocountries inneedoftechnical assistance, inparticular thedeveloping countries,
onfavourable terms."WT/CTE/W/7
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ThePanel'sprogramme ofwork related totrade andenvironment mandates itto:
"[e]xamine relevant factors affecting trade inforest products andother forest-trade issues inan
integrated andholistic approach thatpromotes asupportive relationship between trade and
environment. Inthisconnection, identify opportunities andrecommend measures forimproving
market access forforest products onanon-discriminatory basis andconsider factors thatmay
distort trade inforest products andaffect theirvalue, including pricing, import/export controls,
subsidies andtheneedtoremove unilateral bansandboycotts inconsistent withtherules ofthe
international trade system. Promote thedevelopment ofmethodologies toadvance thefull
evaluation, including replacement environmental costs, offorest goods andservices, withaview
topromote fullcostinternalization. Taking account oftheinterests ofallsectors and
particularities ofdifferent countries andensuring fulltransparency andparticipation ofall
interested parties, examine theissue ofvoluntary certification andlabelling offorest products to
contribute toabetter understanding oftheroleofvoluntary certification withregard tothe
sustainable management offorests including theimpact ofcertification ondeveloping countries."
ThePanel should "develop aclearer viewofthework being carried outbyinternational
organizations andmultilateral institutions andunder existing instruments asappropriate, including
theConventions onbiodiversity, desertification, climate change, CITES andITTA, inforest
related issues, including UNCED decisions related toforests, andtheinstitutional linkages
emanating therefrom inorder toidentify anygaps, areas requiring enhancement, aswellasany
areas ofduplication. Based onaconsensus building, stepbystepprocess, [itshould] consider and
advise ontheneed, orotherwise, forother instruments orarrangements forfurther
implementation oftheForest Principles, including appropriate legalarrangements andmechanisms
covering alltypes offorests."
ThePanel should "encourage national implementation ofcriteria andindicators for
sustainable forest management andstudy thefeasibility offurther developing internationally agreed
upon criteria andindicators against which progress towards sustainable forest management ofall
types offorests could bemeasured, taking intoaccount thespecific regional andsub-regional
conditions offorests andthediversity ofeconomic, social andcultural environments. Inthis
context, facilitate theengagement ofregions andcountries notyetinvolved indeveloping criteria
andindicators ofsustainable forest management; share experiences intesting andimplementing
them; andexamine theneedtopromote comparability andtheappropriateness ofconvergence
among international initiatives inthisregard." Itwillsubmit aprogress report totheCSD's
fourth session in1996 andfinalconclusions andrecommendations tothe1997 session.
Chapter 14:Decision onPromoting Sustainable Agriculture andRural Development
TheDecision notes that"sustainable agriculture andrural development must takeplace
within theframework ofanundistorted sectoral andeconomy-wide policy framework thatfully
ingrates environmental considerations. Inthiscontext, thefullimplementation oftheFinal Actof
theUruguay Round ofMultilateral Trade Negotiations isanimportant stepcontributing to
liberalizing international trade inagriculture. Inparticular, thereforms toachieve substantial and
progressive reduction inthesupport andprotection ofagriculture, inaccordance withthe
Uruguay Round agreement, covering internal regimes, market access andexport subsidies, are
on-going. With aviewtopromoting sustainable development, non-trade concerns suchas
economic, social, foodsecurity andenvironmental impact oftrade policies, including trade
liberalization, should bemonitored andevaluated, especially taking intoaccount theirimpact on
developing countries, inparticular LDCs andnetfoodimporting developing countries. ..."
TheCSD "requests FAO, within itsexisting resources, incollaboration withUNCTAD,
WTO, UNDP, UNEP andother relevant organizations, toanalyze theimplications forsustainable
agriculture andrural development oftheUruguay Round 'sFinal Actatnational, regional andWT/CTE/W/7
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international levels. Inthiscontext, [it]notes, taking intoaccount theimpact onandthe
socio-economic conditions indeveloping countries, inparticular LDCs andnetfood-importing
developing countries, theimportance ofacomprehensive examination oftheenvironmental
consequences oftheuseofagricultural practices andpolicies, including agricultural subsidies, in
allcountries andtheirimpact onsustainable agricultural andrural development."
Chapter 15:Decision onConservation ofBiological Diversity
IntheDecision, theCSD: "(a)urges theGovernments which havenotyetdonesoto
ratify, accede toandbegin implementing theConvention onBiological Diversity; (b)urges the
international community tosupport efforts aimed atcapacity building aswellashuman resource
development, andatthetransfer oftechnology todeveloping countries fortheconservation of
biodiversity, including through insituandexsituconservation, andthesustainable useofits
components, andalsourges eachcountry totakelegislative, administrative orpolicy measures, as
appropriate, withtheaimthattheprivate sector facilitate access tojointdevelopment of
technology, inaccordance withArticle 16.4oftheBiodiversity Convention; (c)encourages the
Conference oftheParties totheBiodiversity Convention, incollaboration withrelevant
organizations, toexplore means forcoordinating relevant global andregional agreements related
totheConvention; ...and(i)callsupon theinternational community tomake efforts todevelop
economic mechanisms fordetermining thecosts andbenefits oftheconservation ofbiodiversity
andsustainable useofitscomponents ...". Italsonotes theBiodiversity Convention 'swork on
biodiversity andforests andrecognizes "theroleofconservation andsustainable management of
alltypes offorests formaintaining thebiodiversity oftheplanet aswellasforforest
eco-systems."
Chapter 16:Decision onEnvironmentally Sound Management ofBiotechnology
Noting theSecretary-General 'sreport onenvironmentally sound management of
biotechnology4anditsproposals foraction, theDecision notes thattheCSD considers that
"[f]uture reports should place astronger emphasis, including more information andproposals, on
theecological, safety, health, andsocio-economic andethical aspects oftheapplication of
biotechnology andthecommercialization ofbiotechnology products, withparticular reference to
genetic engineering, including genetically-modified organisms when human genetic material is
involved. Such reports should takeintoaccount existing uncertainties andthemost recent findings
ofthescience ofgenetics. Thiswould enable theCSD totakeabalanced andobjective approach
tobiotechnology."
TheCSD "recognizes, however, thatconcerns existabout biosafety intheapplication of
biotechnology andthecommercialization ofbiotechnology products, inparticular withregard to
genetically modified organisms. Itnotes theabsence ofaglobally agreed framework forthesafe
handling andtransfer ofbiotechnology, andthesustainable management ofgenetically modified
organisms. Itfurther notes theparticular significance ofthisfordeveloping counties. Taking into
account theprecautionary approach, theCSD attaches highpriority tothesafehandling of
biotechnology. ...[and] welcomes thedecision ofthefirstmeeting oftheConference ofthe
Parties totheBiodiversity Convention toestablish aprocess forconsidering theneedforand
modalities ofaprotocol onbiosafety inthefieldofthesafetransfer, handling anduseofany
living modified organisms resulting from biotechnology thatmayhaveadverse effect onthe
conservation andsustainable useofbiodiversity. Thatdecision involves theestablishment ofa
panel ofexperts andanopen-ended adhocWorking Group ofexperts nominated by
Governments."
4E/CN.17/1995/20.WT/CTE/W/7
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TheCSD "urges countries andinternational organizations toaccord highpriority to
measures aimed atintegrating biotechnology, including biosafety concerns andprovide support to,
interalia,assess theneedforadvice andassistance inpromoting thedevelopment or
reenforcement ofbiotechnology andbiosafety regulations, norms andstandards, especially inthe
fields ofagricultural, human andanimal health, withaviewtodesigning effective programmes for
theenvironmentally-sound management ofbiotechnology ..."Itnotes "thework onthe
development ofpossible international voluntary technical guidelines onbiosafety andstresses that
suchwork should notbeseenasoverriding existing national andregional legislation oras
prejudging theresult oftheongoing discussions ontheneedforandmodalities ofaprotocol on
biosafety under theBiodiversity Convention."
III. SUMMARY OFTHE HIGH LEVEL SEGMENT
Thehighlevelsegment oftheCSD'sthirdsession convened environmental Ministers, as
wellasthose responsible forother relevant sectors suchasfinance, planning, development
cooperation, forestry, agriculture, labour andinfrastructure. TheChairman 'sSummary ofthe
highlevelsegment ofthemeeting iscontained inAppendix IItothisNote.
Ministers "unanimously supported thesetting upofanIntergovernmental Panel on
Forests," which was"seen asarealachievement demonstrating thelevelofcredibility attained by
theCSD infulfilling oneofthemain decisions reached atUNCED."
Ministers noted thatthere was"aclear recognition thatpoverty eradication isan
indispensable requirement forsustainable development." Also, Ministers noted that"[t]he
adoption ofthework programme onchanging production andconsumption patterns confirms that
thisissue isattheheart ofthework oftheCSD. ...Inthisrespect, energy andtransport,
essential sectors when addressing production andconsumption patterns, areanimportant partof
Cluster H,namely "Atmosphere, Oceans andallkinds ofSeas," which theCSD willreview in
1996.
Ministers recognized that"there wasaneedtoanalyze thepotential effects of
environmentally-related trade issues andinparticular product-specific policies, suchas
eco-labelling andcertain packaging andrecycling requirements, especially asregards their
potential impacts onexports, especially those ofdeveloping countries andcountries with
economies intransition; itwasalsonecessary tostrengthen mechanisms toimprove transparency
inthesetting ofsuchstandards andtostrengthen international cooperation which could create
trading opportunities fordeveloping countries inexpanding markets forenvironmentally-friendly
products. Inviewoftheimpacts oftrade liberalization onchanging production patterns in
exporting countries, theneedforcapacity building indeveloping countries andeconomies in
transition tofurther integrating trade andenvironmental policies wasstressed."
Twoadhocopen-ended Inter-sessional Working Groups willbesetuptoaddress the
sectoral items ontheagenda for1996, namely Atmosphere andOceans, andrelated technology
issues andthecross-sectoral issues offinancial resources andmechanisms, aswellaschanging
production andconsumption patterns.WT/CTE/W/7
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APPENDIX I
GENERAL DISCUSSION ONPROGRESS INTHE IMPLEMENTATION OFAGENDA 21
FOCUSING ONCROSS-SECTORAL ISSUES AND THE CRITICAL ELEMENTS
OFSUSTAINABILITY
Decision submitted bytheChairman
andadopted bytheCSD
Chapter 2
Trade, Environment andSustainable Development
1. TheCommission reiterates theinitial perspectives forconsideration insubsequent work on
trade andenvironment issues contained inits1994 Decision andstresses thattrade and
environment policies should bemutually supportive inpromoting sustainable development. This
requires thataccount betaken ofthespecial conditions anddevelopment needs ofthedeveloping
countries. There isalsoaneedforsupport tobuild institutional capacity intheareaoftrade and
development andenvironmental assessment indeveloping countries andcountries witheconomies
intransition. There isalsoaneedforcomplementarity, coordination, transparency and
accountability among international organizations involved inthedevelopment ofpolicies ontrade
andenvironment.
2. TheCommission considered anumber ofkeyissues related tothelinkages between trade,
environment andsustainable development. These include product measures andmarket access,
process standards andcompetitiveness, internalization ofenvironmental externalities andtrade,
multilateral environmental agreements andtrade policy, environmental factors astrading
opportunities, andtrade policies andtheenvironment. Each ofthese issues involves conceptual
andempirical aswellaspolicy questions. Ongoing work indifferent international organizations
aimsatclarifying these issues, through policy analysis anddebate, andatderiving policy
conclusions therefrom. Major groups, suchasNGOs andtheprivate sector arealsoaddressing
trade andenvironment linkages andaremaking important contributions totheirbetter
understanding, aswellasawareness building andpublic education.
3. TheCommission stresses thatStates should cooperate topromote asupportive andopen
international economic system thatwould leadtoeconomic growth andsustainable development
inallcountries, tobetter address theproblems ofenvironmental degradation.
4. TheCommission notes thattheUruguay Round Agreements represent asubstantial
liberalization ofinternational trade, thestrengthening ofmultilateral rules anddisciplines toensure
stability andpredictability intrade relations, theestablishing ofrules anddisciplines innewareas
andthefounding ofanewinstitutional framework intheform oftheWTO, withanintegrated
dispute settlement mechanism which should avoid unilateral actions which areagainst international
trade rules. Theagreements thusrepresent anessential element fortheachievement ofglobal
sustained economic growth forthebenefit ofallcountries, inparticular developing countries,
which isafundamental element forachieving sustainable development. Inthiscontext, the
Commission callsfortheurgent andfullimplementation oftheagreements contained inthe
Final ActoftheUruguay Round, stresses theurgent needfortrade liberalization, including
through substantial reduction oftariffs andother barriers totrade andtheelimination of
discriminatory treatment ininternational trade relations, andimproved access tomarkets ofall
countries, inparticular those ofdeveloped countries.WT/CTE/W/7
Page11
5. TheCSD stresses theimportance ofthework oftheCommittee onTrade and
Environment oftheWTO, inaccordance withitsmandate, which callsupon theCommittee to
make appropriate recommendations onwhether anymodifications oftheprovisions ofthe
multilateral trading system arerequired, compatible withtheopen, equitable and
non-discriminatory nature ofthesystem, asregards, inparticular: (a)theneedforrules to
enhance positive interaction between trade andenvironmental measures, forthepromotion of
sustainable development, withspecial consideration totheneeds ofdeveloping countries, in
particular those oftheleastdeveloped among them; and(b)theavoidance ofprotectionist trade
measures, andtheadherence toeffective multilateral disciplines toensure responsiveness ofthe
multilateral trading system toenvironmental objectives setforth inAgenda 21andthe
RioDeclaration, inparticular Principle 12;and(c)surveillance oftrade measures usedfor
environmental purposes, oftrade-related aspects ofenvironmental measures which havesignificant
trade affects, andofeffective implementation ofthemultilateral disciplines governing those
measures.
6. TheCommission notes thatpositive measures, suchasimproved market access, improved
access tofinance, access toandtransfer oftechnology, capacity building andspecial provisions
forsmall firms, areeffective instruments tosupport developing countries andcountries in
transition intheirefforts tointernalize environmental costs.
7. TheCommission reiterates paragraph 32ofits1994 decision. Iffurther notes thattrade
provisions inMEAs should betransparent andshould notconstitute ameans ofarbitrary or
unjustifiable discrimination oradisguised restriction oninternational trade. Inaccordance with
Principle 12oftheRioDeclaration, unilateral actions todealwithenvironmental challenges
outside thejurisdiction oftheimporting country should beavoided. Environmental measures
addressing transboundary orglobal environmental problems should, asfaraspossible, bebased
oninternational consensus.
8. TheCommission recognizes thatprogress hasbeenmade byvirtue ofthenewWTO
provisions, andunderscores theimportance ofbuilding onthese accomplishments, inparticular
withregard totransparency andtheuseofoutside review groups where specialized knowledge is
relevant.
9. TheCommission reaffirms thatefforts should begeared topromoting theconvergence of
environmental standards andregulations atahighlevelofenvironmental protection, while bearing
inmind thatregulations andstandards thatarevalid inthemost advanced countries maybe
inappropriate andhaveunwarranted economic andsocial costs forthedeveloping countries. It
further notes theimportance oftransparency ofenvironmental regulations andstandards andof
supporting developing countries inthedevelopment ofeffective domestic regulations and
standards.
10. TheCommission considers thatthere isaneedtoanalyze thepotential effects of
product-specific policies, inparticular those based onlife-cycle approaches, which haveemerged
recently, suchas-labelling andcertain packaging andrecycling requirements, especially as
regards theirpotential impacts ontheexports ofdeveloping countries andcountries with
economies intransition. Itisalsoimportant toanalyze howimproved transparency and
international cooperation could bestrengthened soastofacilitate theexport prospects of
developing countries andasameans ofstrengthening environmental protection.
11. TheCommission notes thatconsumer preferences for"environment-friendly" products
maycreate trading opportunities including fordeveloping countries. More work isneeded to
specify ways andmeans bywhich thecredibility ofenvironmental claims relating toproducts and
technologies canbesubstantiated.WT/CTE/W/7
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12. TheCommission considers thatfurther trade liberalization isanecessary butnotsufficient
condition forsustainable development. Trade liberalization along withsustained economic growth
canbeexpected topavethewayforthegradual raising ofenvironmental standards atthenational
andglobal level. Atthesame time, trade liberalization needs tobecomplemented bytheadoption
ofsound environmental policies. National governments haveaninterest inanalysing
environmental andsocial effects ofsignificant changes inthevolume andcomposition in
production andconsumption patterns, including those resulting from trade policy reforms, and
make, ifrequired, thenecessary policy adjustments withaviewtocorrecting market andpolicy
failures andinternalizing environmental costs.
13. Inthecontext oftheoverall aimsofsustainable development, theCommission welcomes
thesubstantial progress achieved inWTO, UNCTAD andUNEP, inparticular through thework
oftheWTO Committee onTrade andtheEnvironment, theUNCTAD AdhocWorking Group on
Trade, Environment andDevelopment andthejointUNEP/UNCTAD programme aswellasthe
important roleofUNEP, inparticular inrelation tomultilateral environmental agreements, and
invites theinstitutions concerned, aswellastheOECD, tocontinue theirwork ontrade andthe
environment. Itfurther underlines efforts tomake trade andenvironment mutually supportive
through, interalia,strengthening technical assistance forcapacity building undertaken by
UNCTAD, UNDP andUNEP, including inintegrating theconsideration ofallfactors relevant to
theformulation oftrade andsustainable development policies. TheCommission considers thatthe
present division oflabour intheinternational discussions ontrade andtheenvironment is
generally satisfactory andstresses theneedforcontinued close cooperation andcomplementarity
inthework ofWTO, UNEP andUNCTAD. Inthiscontext, theCommission invites UNEP and
UNCTAD tocontinue theirjointinitiative, preferably atatechnical levelwithafocused agenda.
14. TheCommission invites UNCTAD, thetaskmanager fortrade andenvironment, in
cooperation withUNEP, WTO, FAO, WHO, DPCSD andother appropriate institutions toprepare
abackground paper fortheCommission which would review thegrowing volume ofresearch on
trade, environment andsustainable development linkages carried outbyinternational
organizations, aswellasacademic institutions andNGOs indeveloped anddeveloping countries,
including intheframework ofprojects supported byinternational andbilateral aidagencies witha
viewtoidentifying possible gaps, including through theuseofindependent trade andenvironment
expert groups.
15. Ascalled forinAgenda 21,theCommission recommends thatgovernments ofdeveloped
countries andmultilateral aidagencies strengthen efforts toimprove access tomarkets, finance and
access toandtransfer oftechnology andtobuild capacity inorder tosupport developing countries
andcountries witheconomies intransition intheirefforts tointernalize environmental costs,
UNCTAD incooperation withUNDP, FAO andUNEP andother international agencies,
programmes andorganizations areinvited toundertake further work inthisareawithaviewto
identifying innovative approaches. ThejointUNEP/UNCTAD programme isalsoinvited tocarry
outfurther work inthisarea, giving particular attention toPrinciple 16oftheRioDeclaration and
capacity-building indeveloping countries andcountries witheconomies intransition, in
cooperation withother relevant organizations, suchastheFAO.
16. Inorder togainbetter understanding ontheimpact oftheinternalization ofenvironmental
costs oncompetitiveness andtrade earnings, particularly indeveloping countries, UNCTAD is
invited tocarry outananalytical study ontherelationship ofenvironmental protection to
international competitiveness, jobcreation anddevelopment, withtheinput ofgovernments,
regional economic integration organizations, theprivate sector andNGOs aswellasother relevant
regional andinternational organizations.WT/CTE/W/7
Page13
17. TheCommission invites UNCTAD andUNEP incooperation withWTO, ISO,andother
relevant international organizations toanalyze howtransparency andinternational cooperation
could bestrengthened withrespect toproduct-specific policies, soastoavoid ormitigate adverse
trade effects, inparticular toeco-labelling andcertain packaging andrecycling requirements,
including through theprovision oftechnical assistance todeveloping countries andcountries with
economies intransition andother measures aimed atfacilitating theirexports.
18. TheCommission recognizes thateco-labelling andrecycling requirements must be
transparent andshould takeintoaccount thespecial situation andneeds ofthedeveloping countries
andcountries witheconomies intransition. TheCommission encourages UNCTAD andUNEP in
cooperation withother relevant international organizations, tocontinue toexplore thescope for
mutual recognition among eco-labelling schemes onthebasis ofenvironmental equivalencies or
appropriately highlevels ofenvironmental protection.
19. TheCommission invites UNCTAD andUNEP, incooperation withUNDP, international
financial institutions (IFIs) andother international bodies, programmes andorganizations to
examine theeffects oftrade measures inMEAs ontheachievement ofenvironmental goals andon
trade andcompetitiveness ofdeveloping countries andcountries witheconomies intransition and
howpositive measures canassist those countries inmeeting theirobligations under the
agreements.
20. With respect toeco-labelling andenvironmentally-friendly products, theCommission
invites multilateral andbilateral development institutions toprovide technical assistance, as
appropriate, todeveloping countries andcountries witheconomies intransition inorder to
facilitate theirparticipation ininternational work oneco-labelling andenvironmentally-friendly
products carried outbyISOandother relevant international organizations.
21. TheCommission invites thejointUNEP/UNCTAD programme tocarry outfurther work,
incooperation withUNDP andother relevant international organizations, onthedevelopment ofa
framework tofacilitate theassessment oftheenvironmental impact oftrade policies, taking into
account thespecial needs ofdeveloping countries andcountries witheconomies intransition.
Such work should takeintoaccount thedifferent elements mentioned inparagraph 33ofthe
1994 CSD Decision.
22. TheCommission notes theongoing work ofOECD ontrade andenvironment and
encourages ittosubmit theresults ofitswork totheCSD.
23. TheCommission encourages Governments todevelop orstrengthen processes toassess the
environmental effects oftrade policies, enhance coordination between environmental andtrade
policies, including cooperation between environmental andtrade officials inthepolicy
development process, andpromote transparency andopenness tothepublic inthese processes.
24. TheCommission encourages cooperation andexchange ofexperiences among countries to
develop andstrengthen environmental protection lawsandprogrammes inthepursuit ofmaking
trade andenvironment mutually supportive.
25. TheCommission encourages international organizations, Governments andthebusiness
community, andNGOs topromote theimplementation oftrade andsustainable development
principles consistent withAgenda 21.
26. TheCommission reiterates theimportance ofachieving transparency, openness andthe
active involvement ofthepublic andexperts inrelation towork ontrade andenvironment.WT/CTE/W/7
Page14
APPENDIX II
CHAIRMAN 'SSUMMARY OFTHE HIGH LEVEL SEGMENT OFTHE THIRD SESSION
OFTHE COMMISSION ONSUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
28April 1995
TheCommission onSustainable Development hasmetforitsThird Session withan
impressive show ofattendance onthepartofmore than50State Ministers andSecretaries.
Thistimenotonlyenvironmental Ministers butthose responsible forother relevant sectors
suchasfinance, planning, development cooperation, forestry, agriculture, labour and
infrastructure actively participated intheproceedings.
Another significant feature wasthegenuine collaboration oftheentire family ofUN
institutions, bothduring thepreparatory phase andtheSession itself.
Thisclearly underlines CSD'sfirmcommitment totheRiofollow-up process, and
establishes theprinciple ofsustainability asthedriving force fortheintegration ofeconomic,
social, environmental andinstitutional concerns.
Theintensity anddiversity ofinitiatives forsustainable development, whether ofnational,
regional orinternational scope, indicate theCommission 'sgrowing influence andwasemphasized
bytheparticipants. TheCommission hasreceived valuable support from governments, the
United Nations system, andother international organizations, anditswork hascaptured the
attention andtheparticipation ofthemajor groups ofsociety.
TheCSD hasthusmobilized avariety ofefforts andgained political impetus in
implementing theconcept ofsustainable development, inanopenandtransparent manner. Onthe
other hand, while advancing intergovernmental exchanges andachieving some degree ofconsensus
building, ithasattributed operation significance tothepromises andexpectations ofUNCED.
Following thepattern setinRio,CSD hasassured intense participation byallstakeholders
intheprocess ofshaping thesustainable development agenda forthefuture. Theproposal to
establish anIntergovernmental Panel onForests, theanalysis ofpatterns ofconsumption and
production, areview ofthemechanisms fortransferring environmentally sound technologies and
theformulation ofsustainable development indicators aretypical examples oftheprogress made
bytheCommission incarrying outitsresponsibilities.
High levelmeeting participants described anumber ofencouraging initiatives atthe
national andinternational levels, among which theaction taken tophase outleadingasoline. In
thisrespect, theCommission encouraged theexchange ofnational experiences, particularly among
developing countries, intheuseofenvironmentally sustainable technologies suchastheuseof
ethanol andbiomass asalternative sources ofenergy.
Theneedtofurther pursue theimplementation allUNCED decisions andcommitments
washighlighted byseveral participants.
Oneofthecontinuing areas ofconcern remains thefinancing ofsustainable development
aimed atsupporting national efforts indeveloping countries andeconomies intransition. Much
disappointment wasexpressed withregard totheneedfornewandadditional resources interms of
ODA, which hasdeclined bothinabsolute terms andasapercentage ofGNP.WT/CTE/W/7
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Many speakers stressed theimportance ofODA inpromoting institutional strengthening
andother aspects ofsustainable development inmany parts oftheworld, andtheyurged theCSD
toreview theextent towhich Agenda 21recommendations were infactimplemented. Atthe
same time, emphasis wasoften placed ontheimportance ofinternational anddomestic policies on
economic instruments, financial mechanisms andother means ofmobilizing financial resources in
thedirection ofsustainable development.
Thesetting upofanIntergovernmental Panel onForests wasunanimously supported, and
seenasarealachievement demonstrating thelevelofcredibility attained bytheCSD infulfilling
oneofthemain decisions reached atUNCED.
Practical action oriented guidance isexpected from thePanel inorder toadvance
international understanding andconsensual agreement onthiscomplex issue. Itisessential to
maintain thepolitical momentum achieved byallparties during theThird Session andassure the
Panel anearly andsuccessful start. ThePanel shallhavetwoCo-Chairmen tobeproposed bythe
Chairman oftheCSD inconsultation withtheBureau andinterested Ministers andelected atits
firstsession. Regular meetings willpreferably beheldinNewYork, butmaytakeplace inother
locations inorder toensure thewidest possible participation, whenever possible, depending upon
theavailability ofadequate resources.
Anintegrated approach totheplanning andmanagement oflandresources waspresented
asacornerstone incombatting deforestation, desertification anddrought; promoting sustainable
agriculture, rural andmountain development; theconservation ofbiological diversity andthe
sustainable management ofalltypes offorests. Anessential element inaddressing those initiatives
isapeople-oriented, balanced approach, adapted tospecific circumstances soastosolicit
participation atthelocalandintermediate levels ofdecision-making.
Practical andsuccessful tools recommended fortheimplementation ofsustainable solutions
were amongst others thedevelopment oflanduseplanning systems, thepromotion ofpest
management programmes inagriculture, andregional/sub-regional agreements inrelation to
mountain ecosystems. Enhanced productivity inagriculture andother rural activities could be
further obtained through theappropriate useofrenewable energy sources aswellasfossil fuels.
Participants highlighted theimportance ofnational information todocument efforts and
progress made atthenational levelinimplementing Agenda 21,alsoinpreparation forthe1997
review. They noted withsatisfaction that53states and2organizations submitted national
information totheSecretariat. Thepresentation ofnational experiences during thissession by
10countries representing allregions wasconsidered asaveryvaluable complement tothewritten
reports; itdeserves follow-up atfuture sessions. Therelated work onindicators forms an
important element inthereporting process. Donors were encouraged tosupport developing
countries withtheirpreparations forfuture sessions oftheCSD. Given theheavy reporting
burden andtheriskofexcessive fragmentation, there isaneedforstreamlining ofthevarious
requirements forreporting onnational progress inachieving sustainable development.
Theparticipants inthehighlevelsegment expressed theirappreciation forthecontinued
participation ofmajor groups intheCommissions work. Aconscious effort tosupport and
encourage theinvolvement ofcivilsociety inthepost-Rio process wasfelttobeasource of
strength. TheDayofLocal Authorities wasseenasaconstructive approach tohighlight concrete
results atthelocallevelthrough thecontributions ofspecific major groups. Thisapproach must
becontinued incoming sessions. ADayoftheWorkplace, foreseen forthefourth session, will
helpdemonstrate thecontributions ofworkers andtrade unions andbusiness andindustry to
sustainable development.WT/CTE/W/7
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Thecrucial roleofwomen aswellasyouth andindigenous people andother local
communities indecision-making wasreiterated bymany delegations. They feltthatthe
Commission should build onthedynamism displayed byNGOs andother major groups atthe
national andinternational levels through theiractive participation andcontributions tosustainable
development ingeneral andtothework oftheCommission inparticular. Involvement ofall
relevant groups inadialogue atthenational, regional andinternational levels isimperative to
achieving asustainable future.
They areessential inapeople-centered focus intheparadigm ofsustainable development.
Inthiscontext, theparticipants recognized theenormous contribution make bytheICPD andby
theWSSD andtheimportance ofimplementing theprogramme ofaction which theyadopted,
noting thatinsodoing alloftheobjectives agreed inAgenda 21inrespect ofcombatting poverty
andaddressing demographic issues would befullyachieved. There wasaclear recognition that
poverty eradication isanindispensable requirement forsustainable development.
ThePanel discussion onEmployment andSustainable Development provided atimely
opportunity tohighlight thecritical links between thecommitments made bytheinternational
community attheRioSummit andtheCopenhagen Summit onSocial Development. It
emphasized theroleofpartnership andparticipation oftherelevant stakeholders inpromoting full
employment asanessential component offulfilling sustainable development objectives.
Globalization, theincreased reliance onmarket mechanisms andthegrowing interdependence
among nations makes thisacomplex andchallenging task. ThePanel discussion stressed theneed
formuch greater attention tobegiven tothese issues infuture.
Theadoption ofthework programme onchanging production andconsumption patterns
confirms thatthisissue isattheheart ofthework oftheCommission. How dowebring about
thechanges inallcountries, butespecially indeveloped countries, tomake thetransition toa
society inwhich thepatterns ofproduction andconsumption aresustainable? Inthisrespect, the
reassertion oftheprinciple ofcommon butdifferentiated responsibilities wasparticularly stressed.
Many linkages withthesectoral issues willcome totheforefront inthepreparations fornext
year'ssession. Energy andtransport, essential sectors when addressing production and
consumption patterns, areanimportant partofthechapter onatmosphere, thattheCommission
willreview nextyear.
Theparticipants emphasized theresponsibility shared byallstakeholders insociety.
Governments should provide anoverall framework, including regulation, economic incentives and
infrastructure tocreate thenecessary conditions andfacilities forbusiness, industry and
households tomove toward sustainable production andconsumption patterns. Business and
industry, particularly those ofdeveloped countries, should fulfil theirresponsibility formanaging
thelife-cycle impact ofthegoods andservices theysupply andareencouraged toprovide
information ontheenvironmental andhealth effects arising from theproduction andconsumption
oftheirproducts. Households, particularly indeveloped countries, should adopt sustainable
consumption habits andlifestyles. Inthisregard, public awareness campaigns, education and
community-based voluntary action could contribute tofostering changes inlifestyles. ThePanel
onmass-media showed concrete examples inthisrespect. Italsohighlighted theimportance of
generating ahigher levelofinterest oftheCSD'sachievements bythemedia.
Itwasrecognized thatthere wasaneedtoanalyze thepotential effects ofenvironmentally
related trade issues andinparticular product-specific policies, suchaseco-labelling andcertain
packaging andrecycling requirements, especially asregards theirpotential impacts onexports,
especially those ofdeveloping countries andcountries witheconomies intransition itwasalso
necessary tostrengthen mechanisms toimprove transparency inthesetting ofsuchstandards and
tostrengthen international cooperation which could create trading opportunities fordevelopingWT/CTE/W/7
Page17
countries inexpanding markets forenvironmentally friendly products. Inviewoftheimpacts of
trade liberalization onchanging production patterns inexporting countries, theneedforcapacity
building indeveloping countries andeconomies intransition tofurther integrating trade and
environmental policies wasstressed.
Theparticipants welcomed various initiatives presented bymany developed anddeveloping
countries during thehigh-level segment tosupport theinter-sessional work oftheCommission
withaviewtoenriching thepreparations fortheCommission 'sfourth session.
Following thepattern oftheprevious inter-sessional period, twoadhocopen-ended
Intersessional Working Groups willbesetuptoaddress thesectoral items programmed for1996,
namely Atmosphere andOceans ,andrelated technology issues, ononehand, andontheother
hand, thecross-sectoral issues offinancial resources andmechanisms aswellaschanging
production andconsumption patterns.
Furthermore, itwasunderscored thatthe1997 special session oftheGeneral Assembly,
thatisexpected totakereview oftheoverall progress achieved since UNCED, should beseenas
animportant opportunity totakestock ofbothpractical experiences gained atthenational and
international levels toachieve sustainable development, aswellasofmain global political
developments, suchastheoutcomes oftheConference onSustainable Development ofSIDS,
International Conference onPopulation andDevelopment, World Social Summit, Fourth
UNConference ontheAdvancement ofWomen andHABITAT II,UNConference onHighly
Migratory andStraddling FishStocks, intheirrelationship totheimplementation andenhancing
theoutcomes ofUNCED andtoforwarding progress towards sustainable development worldwide.
1997 willprovide theopportunity todefine thekeyissues ofsustainability andthefuture roleof
theCSD inaddressing them.
TheBureau oftheCommission considers asoneofitsmain tasks theanalysis ofall
material available asaresult ofCSD'swork, andthereview oftheprocedures adopted sofarfor
theorganization andclustering ofthemain topics ofAgenda 21.Furthermore, aspecial effort
willbemade atBureau leveltoconsider preparations forthe1997 review.