This document is an issue of Outreach Magazine focused on the upcoming Rio+20 UN Conference on Sustainable Development. It highlights concerns that the conference needs to deliver an outcome that places societies and economies on a more just and equitable footing. It also notes that the conference offers an opportunity to change course towards a more sustainable transition. The issue profiles a number of topics to be discussed at Rio+20 related to human rights, responsibility, food/agriculture, and oceans. It provides a schedule of themes and content deadlines for contributors to the magazine covering the negotiations and events leading up to and during the conference.
This document summarizes discussions around paragraph 24 of the Zero Draft Outcome Document for the Rio+20 conference, which calls for a global framework on corporate sustainability reporting. It argues that sustainability reporting is important for investors, companies, governments, and stakeholders. It provides key information for decision-making and accountability. The document advocates for an agreement on an international framework for sustainability reporting to enhance transparency and assessment of the private sector's contribution to sustainable development goals.
Rachel Kyte is the Vice President of Sustainable Development at the World Bank. She has over 20 years of experience working in civil society, non-profits, and international organizations on issues related to the environment, women's rights, and sustainable development. She believes Rio+20 is an opportunity to promote more inclusive and environmentally sustainable economic growth models. The World Bank's vision is for economic growth to become more efficient and supportive of natural systems over the next 20 years. Key actions include valuing ecosystem services, addressing inequities, removing inefficient subsidies, and building resilience against climate change impacts. Even without global consensus, coalitions can take action to advance sustainable development goals.
The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Coalition, representing $2 trillion in assets, is advocating for a UN convention on corporate sustainability reporting to be adopted at Rio+20. The coalition believes mandatory reporting, or explanation for non-reporting, is needed to transition capital markets to sustainability. However, the speaker is disappointed that draft documents lack commitments and specifics. Explicit commitments and a process for negotiations are needed post-Rio to establish reporting standards that will engage all companies in sustainability.
The document discusses building a global network of National Councils for Sustainable Development (NCSDs). It announces a workshop invitation to discuss how NCSDs and National Strategies for Sustainable Development (NSSDs) can contribute to the Rio+20 conference. The article notes that NCSDs have been established in over 80 countries to promote multi-stakeholder engagement in sustainable development policymaking and implementation. It aims to explore how to strengthen the role of NCSDs and NSSDs in sustainable development governance post-Rio+20.
The document discusses the importance of soils and the growing problem of soil degradation. It notes that 24% of global land has suffered degradation and certain farming practices are causing erosion 100 times faster than soil formation. By 2050, only 0.1 hectares of arable land may be available per person. The EU is proposing a target for Rio+20 of achieving "zero net rate of land and soil degradation" to help restore soils and manage them sustainably to meet food demands. This could be achieved by minimizing erosion, maintaining soil organic matter, and preventing uncontrolled urban expansion.
This document discusses the role of National Sustainable Development Councils in implementing agreements from Rio+20. It recommends that such councils have:
1) High-level membership from leading sectors of society and access to government.
2) Independence from government to raise issues but closeness to advise.
3) Resources to study sustainability issues and monitor progress on goals.
4) Engage civil society, local, and regional levels to build partnerships for sustainable development.
National councils can help interpret global goals, establish implementation means, and engage stakeholders, but countries must also learn from each other's experiences.
This document summarizes articles in an issue of Outreach, a multi-stakeholder magazine on climate change and sustainable development.
1. It leads with an article calling for collaboration as key to ensuring a fair transition to a green economy. National policies and knowledge sharing are emphasized.
2. Another article argues that without dedicated finance, the Rio+20 conference will fail to deliver on aspirations of transitioning to a green economy. It calls for ending fossil fuel subsidies and greening tax systems.
3. A third article discusses green job opportunities in Canada as the country transitions away from its reliance on oil reserves, and highlights examples from Ontario and other provinces of renewable energy policies creating domestic manufacturing and jobs. It argues
The document discusses the need for a high seas biodiversity agreement to protect international waters, which cover two-thirds of the planet. It notes that 90% of big fish have been overfished, coral reefs are disappearing, and climate change is altering ocean chemistry. While less than 1% of the high seas are protected, these waters are facing increasing threats from human activities like overfishing, pollution, and climate change. The document argues that governments should approve negotiations on a new agreement at Rio+20 to implement relevant provisions of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and establish protections for biodiversity in international waters. Doing so could boost fisheries, jobs, and the overall ocean economy while safeguarding ocean resources
This document summarizes discussions around paragraph 24 of the Zero Draft Outcome Document for the Rio+20 conference, which calls for a global framework on corporate sustainability reporting. It argues that sustainability reporting is important for investors, companies, governments, and stakeholders. It provides key information for decision-making and accountability. The document advocates for an agreement on an international framework for sustainability reporting to enhance transparency and assessment of the private sector's contribution to sustainable development goals.
Rachel Kyte is the Vice President of Sustainable Development at the World Bank. She has over 20 years of experience working in civil society, non-profits, and international organizations on issues related to the environment, women's rights, and sustainable development. She believes Rio+20 is an opportunity to promote more inclusive and environmentally sustainable economic growth models. The World Bank's vision is for economic growth to become more efficient and supportive of natural systems over the next 20 years. Key actions include valuing ecosystem services, addressing inequities, removing inefficient subsidies, and building resilience against climate change impacts. Even without global consensus, coalitions can take action to advance sustainable development goals.
The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Coalition, representing $2 trillion in assets, is advocating for a UN convention on corporate sustainability reporting to be adopted at Rio+20. The coalition believes mandatory reporting, or explanation for non-reporting, is needed to transition capital markets to sustainability. However, the speaker is disappointed that draft documents lack commitments and specifics. Explicit commitments and a process for negotiations are needed post-Rio to establish reporting standards that will engage all companies in sustainability.
The document discusses building a global network of National Councils for Sustainable Development (NCSDs). It announces a workshop invitation to discuss how NCSDs and National Strategies for Sustainable Development (NSSDs) can contribute to the Rio+20 conference. The article notes that NCSDs have been established in over 80 countries to promote multi-stakeholder engagement in sustainable development policymaking and implementation. It aims to explore how to strengthen the role of NCSDs and NSSDs in sustainable development governance post-Rio+20.
The document discusses the importance of soils and the growing problem of soil degradation. It notes that 24% of global land has suffered degradation and certain farming practices are causing erosion 100 times faster than soil formation. By 2050, only 0.1 hectares of arable land may be available per person. The EU is proposing a target for Rio+20 of achieving "zero net rate of land and soil degradation" to help restore soils and manage them sustainably to meet food demands. This could be achieved by minimizing erosion, maintaining soil organic matter, and preventing uncontrolled urban expansion.
This document discusses the role of National Sustainable Development Councils in implementing agreements from Rio+20. It recommends that such councils have:
1) High-level membership from leading sectors of society and access to government.
2) Independence from government to raise issues but closeness to advise.
3) Resources to study sustainability issues and monitor progress on goals.
4) Engage civil society, local, and regional levels to build partnerships for sustainable development.
National councils can help interpret global goals, establish implementation means, and engage stakeholders, but countries must also learn from each other's experiences.
This document summarizes articles in an issue of Outreach, a multi-stakeholder magazine on climate change and sustainable development.
1. It leads with an article calling for collaboration as key to ensuring a fair transition to a green economy. National policies and knowledge sharing are emphasized.
2. Another article argues that without dedicated finance, the Rio+20 conference will fail to deliver on aspirations of transitioning to a green economy. It calls for ending fossil fuel subsidies and greening tax systems.
3. A third article discusses green job opportunities in Canada as the country transitions away from its reliance on oil reserves, and highlights examples from Ontario and other provinces of renewable energy policies creating domestic manufacturing and jobs. It argues
The document discusses the need for a high seas biodiversity agreement to protect international waters, which cover two-thirds of the planet. It notes that 90% of big fish have been overfished, coral reefs are disappearing, and climate change is altering ocean chemistry. While less than 1% of the high seas are protected, these waters are facing increasing threats from human activities like overfishing, pollution, and climate change. The document argues that governments should approve negotiations on a new agreement at Rio+20 to implement relevant provisions of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and establish protections for biodiversity in international waters. Doing so could boost fisheries, jobs, and the overall ocean economy while safeguarding ocean resources
The article discusses water issues in Australia, specifically regarding the Murray-Darling river system which supplies water to four states. Heavy irrigation usage and drought had nearly killed the Murray River in the past by preventing it from reaching the ocean. The article also discusses a dispute over a town's plans to stop supplying treated sewage water to local farmers, who have come to rely on this water for irrigation in their dryland farming and say agriculture would not have developed without this water supply. The farmers are taking the town council to court over breaking this long-standing agreement.
Negotiating and Implementing MEAs: A manual for NGOsuncsd2012
This document provides an overview of negotiating and implementing multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs) for non-governmental organizations (NGOs). It covers key topics such as defining MEAs and their proliferation, basic information on selected MEAs, how MEAs enter into force internationally, and civil society participation in MEAs. The document also discusses the role of NGOs in MEA negotiations, national and regional preparations for MEA meetings, and networking strategies for NGOs. The overall aim is to help equip NGOs with useful information and guidance about engaging with the MEA process.
Stakeholder Forum- Pocket Guide to Sustainable Development Governanceuncsd2012
This document provides an overview of the challenges facing sustainable development governance at the global level. It discusses how, despite progress, environmental problems have intensified due to weaknesses in governance arrangements. Specifically, it outlines challenges around governing the global commons through the prism of national sovereignty. It also discusses criticisms of the effectiveness of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), including its status as a UN programme rather than specialized agency, limited funding, and location in Nairobi. The document notes calls for reforming international environmental governance to address such issues, including establishing a new autonomous global institution or strengthening UNEP's role and mandate.
Global transition 2012 march dialogue info packuncsd2012
How can we ensure a just transition to a green economy that benefits people and the planet?
- What are the opportunities and challenges for developing countries in transitioning to a green economy?
- How can we ensure the transition leaves no one behind and helps lift people out of poverty?
- What policies and initiatives have shown success in creating green jobs and livelihoods?
- How can we ensure a green economy respects environmental limits and helps restore ecosystems?
- What principles of equity and justice should guide the transition globally and nationally?
FORMAT of the Plenary Sessions
Each plenary session will follow the format below:
- Scene Setting: Short presentations from 2-3 panellists to set
March Informals and Third Intersessional programme of side eventsuncsd2012
This document provides the program of side events for informal consultations on the zero draft outcome document for the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (UNCSD or Rio+20) held from 19-23 March 2012. It lists over 50 side events organized over the 5 day period covering topics such as the green economy, sustainable development, poverty eradication, food sovereignty, private sector engagement, gender, oceans, water management and more. The side events were organized by various UN bodies, governments, NGOs and organizations to inform discussions around the Rio+20 outcome document.
This document provides a summary of progress made on commitments from the 2012 UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20). It reviews both negotiated outcomes and voluntary commitments.
The summary reviews progress on key negotiated commitments from Rio+20, including the establishment of the Open Working Group on Sustainable Development Goals and the inaugural meeting of the High-Level Political Forum. It also notes that over 1,400 voluntary commitments totaling $636 billion have been registered since Rio+20.
However, the document calls for independent third-party reviews of commitments to enhance accountability and public perception of progress. It welcomes this report as an important contribution toward reviewing both negotiated outcomes and voluntary commitments from Rio+20.
This document provides an overview of pathways towards a green economy and sustainable development. It discusses how investing 2% of global GDP into key economic sectors could help transition the world economy onto a more environmentally sustainable path. The sectors discussed include agriculture, fisheries, water, forests, renewable energy, manufacturing, waste, buildings, transport, tourism, and cities. Transitioning to a green economy in these sectors could catalyze economic activity comparable to business as usual, while reducing environmental risks and increasing resource efficiency. The report also examines what policy changes and enabling conditions would be needed to support a global shift towards a green economy.
This document provides an introduction and background on the People's Caravan on Disaster Risk Reduction in Nepal event held on October 13-14, 2009 to mark International Day for Disaster Reduction. The key objectives of the event were to raise public awareness on disaster risk reduction issues in Nepal and obtain commitments from policymakers to enact disaster management policies and institutionalize disaster risk reduction. A steering committee was formed comprising government, UN, and NGO representatives to organize the two-day event, which included a national symposium, rally, exhibition, convention, and meetings with high-level officials. The expected outcomes included a joint declaration committing to disaster management legislation and an increased understanding among communities of their rights and the need for stronger disaster risk
BlindSpot Prince's Foundation net-positive circular economyJames Greyson
Sept 2013 Masterclass presentation and biochar making demo
40 years of global problem solving -> problems overall worse.
Mapping the solution space -> new category of solutions?
Positive development -> net positive impacts
Switch policy and practice -> reverse intractable problems?
Biochar, precycling, circular economy
This document outlines the post-Rio+20 process for developing sustainable development goals (SDGs) to succeed the Millennium Development Goals after 2015. It describes the various consultations, working groups, and panels that will take place between 2012-2015 to establish the SDGs. These include country and thematic consultations, an open working group, an intergovernmental panel on resource mobilization, and input from an eminent persons panel. The document also discusses some of the key issues and themes that could be addressed by the SDGs.
Dipecho5 news letter 6th edition- april10DIPECHO Nepal
The document discusses advocacy efforts by DIPECHO partners in Nepal to promote disaster risk reduction as a priority. It outlines several joint advocacy activities:
1. Supporting a national symposium and rally on UNISDR day in October 2009 to adopt a 9-point declaration on DRR policy and hand it over to Nepal's president.
2. Supporting an organization to organize an Earthquake Safety Day in January 2010 to raise awareness of earthquake risk in Nepal.
3. Producing a joint documentary focusing on Nepal's National Strategy for Disaster Risk Management and the Hyogo Framework to advocate for Nepal's commitments under these frameworks.
4. Producing a joint radio program on flood preparedness with
Part IV: Our Future is Worth It: How YOUth can take ACTION for Sustainable De...EOTO World
The final installment of the Rio+20 toolkit series that focuses on the concept of the Institutional Framework for Sustainable Development and how to use the Arts to spread the word!
Presentation For Companies World Cleanup 2012Martin Pold
The document outlines plans for the World Cleanup 2012, a global civic initiative to clean up illegally dumped waste around the world between March and September 2012. Over 300 million volunteers from 100 countries are expected to collect 100 million tons of waste in a single day. The organizers have run similar national cleanup events since 2008. They aim to create the first global waste map and database to coordinate volunteers and track cleanup progress. The budget for preparations is 1.1 million euros. Partnerships with companies are sought to help with funding, promotion and volunteer engagement. The goal is to significantly reduce waste, raise environmental awareness, and bring communities together through a coordinated global cleanup effort.
This letter from the Chair of the National Round Table discusses the organization's work over the past year, including its contributions to the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) in Rio de Janeiro. The Round Table provided advice to the Prime Minister and had members participate in the Canadian delegation. While some see UNCED as disappointing, the letter argues real change cannot be achieved overnight and the momentum from the summit must be sustained to implement its goals. The Round Table will continue initiatives to advance sustainable development as outlined in the report.
BUILDING ON THE KYOTO PROTOCOL: OPTIONS FOR PROTECTING THE CLIMATEDr Lendy Spires
An Architecture for Climate Protection Kevin A. Baumert and Nancy Kete Walls, windows, floors, and doors are some of the elements used in designing a house. Not just any mix of architectural elements will create a functional home.
Although there are many possible designs, making a home functional means assembling walls, windows, and other elements into a compatible whole that meets the needs of its inhabitants. So too, a climate protection treaty has its own set of “architectural elements” that must meet the needs of its stakeholders.
Elements of a climate protection treaty include provisions for controlling greenhouse gas emissions, man-aging economic costs, and promoting accountability, among other things. While the options for designing a home may seem limitless, the diversity of potentially effective climate agreements is not nearly as constrained as current international negotiations might lead us to believe.
As with homes, innovation and creativity are needed in treaty design. Since 1997, the debate over global climate change has focused narrowly on the Kyoto Protocol—an international treaty to control greenhouse gas emissions that are trapping heat in the Earth’s atmosphere.
The Protocol calls on industrialized countries to reduce their emissions of greenhouse gases by about 5 percent below 1990 levels between 2008 and 2012. Over the past 5 years, government officials, observers, and experts have been absorbed in the arcane details of the Protocol, arguing at great length about the treaty’s merits and demerits.
As the Kyoto Protocol comes to life, this debate will shift to include new ideas for future commitments to protect the global climate system. This volume explores a set of options for designing an international framework for climate protection “beyond Kyoto,” that is, beyond the Kyoto Protocol’s first commitment period.1 We pay special attention to achieving international cooperation across the so-called North-South divide.
IISD Summary of side events- Friday, March 23rduncsd2012
The document summarizes discussions from several side events at a UN conference on sustainable development. Representatives from governments, NGOs, and international organizations expressed concerns that the proposed green economy and sustainable development goals may weaken human rights and not adequately address social issues like poverty. They emphasized public participation and ensuring the needs of small farmers and indigenous groups are considered. There were also discussions around establishing planetary and social boundaries to frame new development goals and addressing inequities in sustainability and resource distribution.
The document announces plans for annual United Nations MDG Awards to recognize accomplishments toward achieving the Millennium Development Goals and generate public support. The awards ceremony would take place at the UN General Assembly Hall and be broadcast globally, while also launching an online platform to encourage worldwide participation in discussions around achieving the MDGs.
Dipecho5 news letter 3rd edition- nov 2009DIPECHO Nepal
The document summarizes events in Nepal for International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction in October-November 2009. It describes a two-day symposium and people's rally coordinated by DIPECHO partners that culminated in the demand for an immediate disaster risk reduction and management policy in Nepal. Key events included a symposium where affected community leaders shared experiences, a convention where a large crowd demanded a DRR policy, and an exhibition illustrating DRR projects. A 9-point declaration on DRR rights was signed and handed to Nepal's President.
Reuse of Urban Waste for Agriculture An Investment Program for Progressive Ac...Sadaf Pitt
This document summarizes a report on a cooperative initiative between the World Bank, UNDP, private sector, and NGOs to advance the beneficial reuse of municipal organic waste for agriculture. The program was established following a 1996 meeting to address the dual problems of increasing urban waste and degrading soil fertility. The report outlines the current situation of food insecurity, poor waste disposal practices, and health issues. It discusses the potential to close the organic waste loop by recycling urban waste for agriculture. The report proposes conducting demonstration projects and feasibility studies in 3 locations to showcase waste recycling approaches and technologies. It recommends establishing an organizational structure and securing funding to implement the program in subsequent phases, with the goal of creating additional waste recycling projects worldwide.
DESA News is an insider’s look at the United Nations in the area of economic and social development policy. The newsletter is produced by the Communications and Information Management Service of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs in collaboration with DESA Divisions. DESA News is issued every month.
Part I: Our Future is Worth It: How YOUth can take ACTION for Sustainable Dev...EOTO World
This document provides information about how youth can get involved in shaping decisions around sustainable development at the upcoming Rio+20 Conference in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from June 20-22, 2012. It introduces the Major Group for Children and Youth (MGCY), the official voice for young people in UN sustainability negotiations. The MGCY develops policy recommendations and lobbies for their adoption. It is made up of task forces and working groups to facilitate youth participation. Examples are provided of successful youth-led sustainable development projects to inspire action. The document aims to empower youth to develop their own messages about sustainability and Rio+20 to spread awareness.
The article discusses water issues in Australia, specifically regarding the Murray-Darling river system which supplies water to four states. Heavy irrigation usage and drought had nearly killed the Murray River in the past by preventing it from reaching the ocean. The article also discusses a dispute over a town's plans to stop supplying treated sewage water to local farmers, who have come to rely on this water for irrigation in their dryland farming and say agriculture would not have developed without this water supply. The farmers are taking the town council to court over breaking this long-standing agreement.
Negotiating and Implementing MEAs: A manual for NGOsuncsd2012
This document provides an overview of negotiating and implementing multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs) for non-governmental organizations (NGOs). It covers key topics such as defining MEAs and their proliferation, basic information on selected MEAs, how MEAs enter into force internationally, and civil society participation in MEAs. The document also discusses the role of NGOs in MEA negotiations, national and regional preparations for MEA meetings, and networking strategies for NGOs. The overall aim is to help equip NGOs with useful information and guidance about engaging with the MEA process.
Stakeholder Forum- Pocket Guide to Sustainable Development Governanceuncsd2012
This document provides an overview of the challenges facing sustainable development governance at the global level. It discusses how, despite progress, environmental problems have intensified due to weaknesses in governance arrangements. Specifically, it outlines challenges around governing the global commons through the prism of national sovereignty. It also discusses criticisms of the effectiveness of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), including its status as a UN programme rather than specialized agency, limited funding, and location in Nairobi. The document notes calls for reforming international environmental governance to address such issues, including establishing a new autonomous global institution or strengthening UNEP's role and mandate.
Global transition 2012 march dialogue info packuncsd2012
How can we ensure a just transition to a green economy that benefits people and the planet?
- What are the opportunities and challenges for developing countries in transitioning to a green economy?
- How can we ensure the transition leaves no one behind and helps lift people out of poverty?
- What policies and initiatives have shown success in creating green jobs and livelihoods?
- How can we ensure a green economy respects environmental limits and helps restore ecosystems?
- What principles of equity and justice should guide the transition globally and nationally?
FORMAT of the Plenary Sessions
Each plenary session will follow the format below:
- Scene Setting: Short presentations from 2-3 panellists to set
March Informals and Third Intersessional programme of side eventsuncsd2012
This document provides the program of side events for informal consultations on the zero draft outcome document for the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (UNCSD or Rio+20) held from 19-23 March 2012. It lists over 50 side events organized over the 5 day period covering topics such as the green economy, sustainable development, poverty eradication, food sovereignty, private sector engagement, gender, oceans, water management and more. The side events were organized by various UN bodies, governments, NGOs and organizations to inform discussions around the Rio+20 outcome document.
This document provides a summary of progress made on commitments from the 2012 UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20). It reviews both negotiated outcomes and voluntary commitments.
The summary reviews progress on key negotiated commitments from Rio+20, including the establishment of the Open Working Group on Sustainable Development Goals and the inaugural meeting of the High-Level Political Forum. It also notes that over 1,400 voluntary commitments totaling $636 billion have been registered since Rio+20.
However, the document calls for independent third-party reviews of commitments to enhance accountability and public perception of progress. It welcomes this report as an important contribution toward reviewing both negotiated outcomes and voluntary commitments from Rio+20.
This document provides an overview of pathways towards a green economy and sustainable development. It discusses how investing 2% of global GDP into key economic sectors could help transition the world economy onto a more environmentally sustainable path. The sectors discussed include agriculture, fisheries, water, forests, renewable energy, manufacturing, waste, buildings, transport, tourism, and cities. Transitioning to a green economy in these sectors could catalyze economic activity comparable to business as usual, while reducing environmental risks and increasing resource efficiency. The report also examines what policy changes and enabling conditions would be needed to support a global shift towards a green economy.
This document provides an introduction and background on the People's Caravan on Disaster Risk Reduction in Nepal event held on October 13-14, 2009 to mark International Day for Disaster Reduction. The key objectives of the event were to raise public awareness on disaster risk reduction issues in Nepal and obtain commitments from policymakers to enact disaster management policies and institutionalize disaster risk reduction. A steering committee was formed comprising government, UN, and NGO representatives to organize the two-day event, which included a national symposium, rally, exhibition, convention, and meetings with high-level officials. The expected outcomes included a joint declaration committing to disaster management legislation and an increased understanding among communities of their rights and the need for stronger disaster risk
BlindSpot Prince's Foundation net-positive circular economyJames Greyson
Sept 2013 Masterclass presentation and biochar making demo
40 years of global problem solving -> problems overall worse.
Mapping the solution space -> new category of solutions?
Positive development -> net positive impacts
Switch policy and practice -> reverse intractable problems?
Biochar, precycling, circular economy
This document outlines the post-Rio+20 process for developing sustainable development goals (SDGs) to succeed the Millennium Development Goals after 2015. It describes the various consultations, working groups, and panels that will take place between 2012-2015 to establish the SDGs. These include country and thematic consultations, an open working group, an intergovernmental panel on resource mobilization, and input from an eminent persons panel. The document also discusses some of the key issues and themes that could be addressed by the SDGs.
Dipecho5 news letter 6th edition- april10DIPECHO Nepal
The document discusses advocacy efforts by DIPECHO partners in Nepal to promote disaster risk reduction as a priority. It outlines several joint advocacy activities:
1. Supporting a national symposium and rally on UNISDR day in October 2009 to adopt a 9-point declaration on DRR policy and hand it over to Nepal's president.
2. Supporting an organization to organize an Earthquake Safety Day in January 2010 to raise awareness of earthquake risk in Nepal.
3. Producing a joint documentary focusing on Nepal's National Strategy for Disaster Risk Management and the Hyogo Framework to advocate for Nepal's commitments under these frameworks.
4. Producing a joint radio program on flood preparedness with
Part IV: Our Future is Worth It: How YOUth can take ACTION for Sustainable De...EOTO World
The final installment of the Rio+20 toolkit series that focuses on the concept of the Institutional Framework for Sustainable Development and how to use the Arts to spread the word!
Presentation For Companies World Cleanup 2012Martin Pold
The document outlines plans for the World Cleanup 2012, a global civic initiative to clean up illegally dumped waste around the world between March and September 2012. Over 300 million volunteers from 100 countries are expected to collect 100 million tons of waste in a single day. The organizers have run similar national cleanup events since 2008. They aim to create the first global waste map and database to coordinate volunteers and track cleanup progress. The budget for preparations is 1.1 million euros. Partnerships with companies are sought to help with funding, promotion and volunteer engagement. The goal is to significantly reduce waste, raise environmental awareness, and bring communities together through a coordinated global cleanup effort.
This letter from the Chair of the National Round Table discusses the organization's work over the past year, including its contributions to the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) in Rio de Janeiro. The Round Table provided advice to the Prime Minister and had members participate in the Canadian delegation. While some see UNCED as disappointing, the letter argues real change cannot be achieved overnight and the momentum from the summit must be sustained to implement its goals. The Round Table will continue initiatives to advance sustainable development as outlined in the report.
BUILDING ON THE KYOTO PROTOCOL: OPTIONS FOR PROTECTING THE CLIMATEDr Lendy Spires
An Architecture for Climate Protection Kevin A. Baumert and Nancy Kete Walls, windows, floors, and doors are some of the elements used in designing a house. Not just any mix of architectural elements will create a functional home.
Although there are many possible designs, making a home functional means assembling walls, windows, and other elements into a compatible whole that meets the needs of its inhabitants. So too, a climate protection treaty has its own set of “architectural elements” that must meet the needs of its stakeholders.
Elements of a climate protection treaty include provisions for controlling greenhouse gas emissions, man-aging economic costs, and promoting accountability, among other things. While the options for designing a home may seem limitless, the diversity of potentially effective climate agreements is not nearly as constrained as current international negotiations might lead us to believe.
As with homes, innovation and creativity are needed in treaty design. Since 1997, the debate over global climate change has focused narrowly on the Kyoto Protocol—an international treaty to control greenhouse gas emissions that are trapping heat in the Earth’s atmosphere.
The Protocol calls on industrialized countries to reduce their emissions of greenhouse gases by about 5 percent below 1990 levels between 2008 and 2012. Over the past 5 years, government officials, observers, and experts have been absorbed in the arcane details of the Protocol, arguing at great length about the treaty’s merits and demerits.
As the Kyoto Protocol comes to life, this debate will shift to include new ideas for future commitments to protect the global climate system. This volume explores a set of options for designing an international framework for climate protection “beyond Kyoto,” that is, beyond the Kyoto Protocol’s first commitment period.1 We pay special attention to achieving international cooperation across the so-called North-South divide.
IISD Summary of side events- Friday, March 23rduncsd2012
The document summarizes discussions from several side events at a UN conference on sustainable development. Representatives from governments, NGOs, and international organizations expressed concerns that the proposed green economy and sustainable development goals may weaken human rights and not adequately address social issues like poverty. They emphasized public participation and ensuring the needs of small farmers and indigenous groups are considered. There were also discussions around establishing planetary and social boundaries to frame new development goals and addressing inequities in sustainability and resource distribution.
The document announces plans for annual United Nations MDG Awards to recognize accomplishments toward achieving the Millennium Development Goals and generate public support. The awards ceremony would take place at the UN General Assembly Hall and be broadcast globally, while also launching an online platform to encourage worldwide participation in discussions around achieving the MDGs.
Dipecho5 news letter 3rd edition- nov 2009DIPECHO Nepal
The document summarizes events in Nepal for International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction in October-November 2009. It describes a two-day symposium and people's rally coordinated by DIPECHO partners that culminated in the demand for an immediate disaster risk reduction and management policy in Nepal. Key events included a symposium where affected community leaders shared experiences, a convention where a large crowd demanded a DRR policy, and an exhibition illustrating DRR projects. A 9-point declaration on DRR rights was signed and handed to Nepal's President.
Reuse of Urban Waste for Agriculture An Investment Program for Progressive Ac...Sadaf Pitt
This document summarizes a report on a cooperative initiative between the World Bank, UNDP, private sector, and NGOs to advance the beneficial reuse of municipal organic waste for agriculture. The program was established following a 1996 meeting to address the dual problems of increasing urban waste and degrading soil fertility. The report outlines the current situation of food insecurity, poor waste disposal practices, and health issues. It discusses the potential to close the organic waste loop by recycling urban waste for agriculture. The report proposes conducting demonstration projects and feasibility studies in 3 locations to showcase waste recycling approaches and technologies. It recommends establishing an organizational structure and securing funding to implement the program in subsequent phases, with the goal of creating additional waste recycling projects worldwide.
DESA News is an insider’s look at the United Nations in the area of economic and social development policy. The newsletter is produced by the Communications and Information Management Service of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs in collaboration with DESA Divisions. DESA News is issued every month.
Part I: Our Future is Worth It: How YOUth can take ACTION for Sustainable Dev...EOTO World
This document provides information about how youth can get involved in shaping decisions around sustainable development at the upcoming Rio+20 Conference in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from June 20-22, 2012. It introduces the Major Group for Children and Youth (MGCY), the official voice for young people in UN sustainability negotiations. The MGCY develops policy recommendations and lobbies for their adoption. It is made up of task forces and working groups to facilitate youth participation. Examples are provided of successful youth-led sustainable development projects to inspire action. The document aims to empower youth to develop their own messages about sustainability and Rio+20 to spread awareness.
IISD Summary of side events- Tuesday, March 20thuncsd2012
This document summarizes side events at a UN conference on sustainable development. It discusses:
1) A panel on enhancing civil society engagement in sustainable development governance that addressed reforming UN bodies and establishing a new Council on Sustainable Development. Participants also discussed corporate influence and youth/poverty input.
2) A session on education for sustainable development that highlighted its role in transforming societies and addressed national ESD programs, green society approaches, and moving beyond schools.
3) An event on sustainable cities that featured examples of slum upgrading in Kenya and local initiatives in low-income communities, emphasizing community challenges and strengths and calls for women's participation.
The role of the United Nations in the governance of Socio-Ecological SystemsNicolò Wojewoda
Presentation delivered at the 13th Economics of Infrastructures Conference (http://www.ei.tbm.tudelft.nl/13thEvIConference). Includes an overview of the UN work related to sustainable development and a brief reflection related to international governance of such issues.
Part II: Our Future is Worth It: How YOUth can take ACTION for Sustainable De...EOTO World
This document provides information and resources for youth to get involved in influencing the Rio+20 conference on sustainable development. It outlines the history of major UN sustainability conferences, including Rio+20. It encourages youth to raise awareness locally, support youth delegates, and provides tips on lobbying decision makers, organizing events, and making effective presentations to inspire action for sustainable development.
DESA News is an insider's look at the United Nations in the area of economic and social development policy. The newsletter is produced by the Communications and Information Management Service of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs in collaboration with DESA Divisions. DESA News is issued every month.
The document outlines the strategy of the Road to Rio+20 coalition in the lead up to the 2012 UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20). The coalition aims to (1) raise awareness of Rio+20 through campaigns like Rio+You and model Earth Summits, (2) directly lobby governments at the UN and nationally, and (3) mobilize a global youth movement beyond the UN negotiations. The coalition will coordinate initiatives, advocate for its vision of sustainable development, and maintain a presence at Rio+20 and in its aftermath to continue the momentum.
IISD Summary of side events- Monday, March 19thuncsd2012
The document summarizes a side event at negotiations on sustainable development. It discusses the concept of a "socio-environmental protection floor" to provide social services and protect vulnerable populations during a transition to a green economy. Speakers from the UNDP, ILO, and Brazil supported the concept and Brazil's program provides additional income to families participating in environmental protection. Other discussions centered around technology assessments and promoting agroecology and traditional knowledge over industrial agriculture.
DESA News is an insider's look at the United Nations in the area of economic and social development policy. The newsletter is produced by the Communications and Information Management Service of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs in collaboration with DESA Divisions. DESA News is issued every month.
The Earth Summit was a major UN conference held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992 to discuss environmental issues and sustainable development. Over 100 world leaders and thousands of representatives from governments and NGOs attended. Key outcomes included the Climate Change Convention which led to the Kyoto Protocol, and agreements to protect indigenous lands and biodiversity. Subsequent UN conferences addressed issues like population growth, social development, and women's rights in relation to achieving global sustainability. However, governments have not fully implemented the plans and agreements from these summits.
The document discusses defining non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the variety of terms used to describe them. It also examines NGO participation in United Nations meetings, including how to prepare for meetings, influence negotiations, and work with other actors like governments, bureaus, and secretariats. The document provides advice on lobbying techniques and strategies for NGOs to effectively engage in and influence intergovernmental processes.
Australia at Rio+20 Seminar Facilitator, Rosemary Sainty
Former Head, Secretariat UN Global Compact Network Australia and
Adviser, Corporate Engagement, Transparency Australia
The document outlines proposals and discussions around the Rio+20 Agenda. Key points include establishing a green economy, strengthening governance on sustainable development, and defining sustainable development goals covering issues like consumption, settlements, biodiversity, poverty, oceans, water, food security and energy. There is discussion of "planetary boundaries" and creating new framework conventions on principles, corporate social responsibility, and emerging technologies. The document will continue to be inputted on until the Rio+20 conference in May 2012.
Side event: Challenge of communicating Rio+20: Engaging the Global Public in ...NRDC Race to Rio
How can we make sure Rio+20 reach the hearts and minds of billions in less than 90 days until Rio?
Rio+20 may be one of the largest and most important UN gatherings ever with expected participation of more than 110 heads of state and the involvement of thousands of top leaders from government, business, and civil society. Yet, while there have been some innovative outreach initiatives, Rio+20 has so far attracted limited media attention and is little known by the public.
Join the dialogue with a panel of leading practitioners and experts who will explore the challenges and opportunities of communicating about Rio+20 in a world much different than that at the first Earth Summit a generation ago. The panel will provide suggestions as how to enhance the effectiveness of current efforts and to encourage much broader engagement and cooperation among all stakeholders in raising public awareness of Rio+20 over the next three months. We would also like to hear from your ideas and projects.
Opening Remarks:
Elizabeth Thompson, Rio+20 Executive Coordinator
Speakers:
Dr. David E. Guggenheim, the “Ocean Doctor”
Marie-Pierre Daigle, National Director of We Canada
Elisabeth Rosenthal, Environmental Correspondent, New York Times
Charlotte Scadden, United Nations Department of Public Information
Colin Sutton, Social Media Business leader, OMD
Moderator:
Jacob Scherr, NRDC
This document summarizes a 2005 article from the journal Environment about the concept of sustainable development. It outlines the history and evolution of sustainable development from earlier concepts of peace, freedom, development and the environment. It discusses how sustainable development has been defined, including the widely used definition from the Brundtland Commission. It also examines goals for sustainable development over different time horizons and how indicators are used to define and measure progress toward sustainable development.
This document provides information about the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) happening in 2012. It discusses proposals for Sustainable Development Goals to commit stakeholders to achieving sustainability targets, similar to the Millennium Development Goals. Major groups are finding ways to scale up their initiatives and participate in the Rio+20 process. Upcoming events related to Rio+20 preparation are also listed.
Global dialogue on development: UNFF Forest Film Festival wins European Film Award, General Assembly highlights MDGs and the development agenda beyond 2015
Trends and analysis: Confronting family poverty and social exclusion, Reviewing responses to global job crisis, Principles and recommendations on Vital Statistics System
Capacity development: Platform for exchange of census data experience, Institutionalizing water accounts and statistics, Analyzing mortality, housing and the situation of the elderly in Ethiopia
Delloite report zero impact_monitor_2012Sheela Mistry
This document summarizes the outcomes of the first Zeronauts Symposium held in Rotterdam in June 2012. It introduces the concept of Zero Impact Growth (ZIG) as a paradigm for sustainable economic growth that respects planetary boundaries. It presents the results of the 2012 Zero Impact Growth Monitor (ZIG-M) assessment of 65 leading companies' strategies according to their alignment with ZIG principles. While many companies talk about sustainability, the ZIG-M found implementation gaps between talk and action. It recommends that companies accelerate sustainability efforts, collaborate more, and move beyond GDP indicators to measure true progress towards a 1-planet economy.
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Presentation by Paula Caballero from the Columbian government on the need for a single agenda with a single set of Goals that will serve to align priorities, efforts and resources to tackle the major development challenges of our times.
The document discusses Brazil hosting the Rio+20 United Nations conference on sustainable development in Rio de Janeiro in June 2012, 20 years after the original Rio 92 conference. It notes that over 100 heads of state will attend, along with 50,000 other participants. The conference will focus on green economies and sustainable development frameworks. It describes the various sites that will host conference events and exhibitions, including Riocentro, Athletes' Park, Barra Arena, Pier Maua, Quinta da Boa Vista park, and Flamengo park.
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The document discusses concerns over attempts at the UN Rio+20 conference to weaken or eliminate references to human rights obligations and equity principles from the conference outcome document. It calls on member states to ensure the negotiations strengthen rights and deliver a legitimate agenda on sustainability, democracy, and transparency. The letter urges the UN Secretary General to uphold the UN's legacy by ensuring Rio+20 builds on efforts to strengthen rights and does not undermine the relevance of the United Nations.
The document discusses concerns about the current state of negotiations around the UN Rio+20 conference's draft outcome document. It notes that the draft has become overly complicated with bracketed amendments that tend to be negative. It argues that the draft fails to embrace the vision of transforming patterns of production and consumption to stop exceeding planetary limits and address the needs of the poor and vulnerable. However, the will and determination for real change is not evident from the debates and amended text emerging from negotiations.
This document discusses the upcoming Rio+20 conference and issues surrounding sustainable development. It provides background on how human civilization developed during a stable geological period called the Holocene. However, humans are now having major impacts on the planet comparable to geological processes. The Rio+20 conference is an opportunity to reimagine socioeconomic systems and deliver well-being for all in harmony with nature. Progress is still needed to turn Rio+20 agreements into concrete actions and implementation.
This document discusses sustainable development goals (SDGs) which were proposed as an outcome of the Rio+20 conference. It outlines that the informal government meeting in Solo, Indonesia in 2011 put forward the ideas of upgrading the Commission on Sustainable Development to a Council, and introducing SDGs. The 64th UN DPI NGO Conference then produced 17 possible SDGs covering topics like sustainable consumption, livelihoods, climate change, biodiversity, health, and more.
The document discusses the evolution of corporate social responsibility (CSR) over the past two decades from a marginal issue to an important subject for businesses. It argues that while CSR has grown in importance, voluntary approaches are not enough and a United Nations convention is needed to establish global standards for CSR reporting and accountability. The document calls on governments to agree to a global policy framework requiring sustainability reporting from large companies in order to transform the private sector into a leader in sustainable development.
The document summarizes discussions from the Global Transition Dialogue #2 meeting where 150 stakeholders discussed progress towards sustainable development and a green economy. Key points discussed were that sustainable development goals are not being met, the transition needs to be accelerated, and the concept of a green economy needs better metrics and indicators. Stakeholders called for clearer principles of a green economy, better tracking of sustainable development progress, more integrated goals and targets, and guidance on investments and policies to incentivize sustainability.
The document discusses creating more sustainable cities and lifestyles. It summarizes a debate on green cities that highlighted using the London Olympics to promote long-term sustainability. It also discusses challenges defining and achieving green cities. Two panelists emphasized examining cities as environments to foster sustainability and viewing cities' roles in cultivating ecosystems. However, simply defining and achieving green cities is complex, requiring balancing various viewpoints. The document focuses on creating different ways of living and emphasizes that improving building efficiency alone will not achieve carbon savings needed for sustainability; wider societal change is necessary.
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Outreach Magazine: Rio+20 April/May meetings Day1
1. inside:
Deleting our Rights, Bracketing our Future:
Why we need a People's Summit
Common but Differentiated Responsibility
at Rio+20
a multi-stakeholder
magazine on
climate change
and sustainable
development
out reach. 23 April 2012
www.stakeholderforum.org/sf/outreach/ pic: Benoit Theodore
2. contents.
1 Note from the Editors
UN Human Rights Chief urges States to inject human rights into
2 Rio+20
Deleting our Rights, Bracketing our Future: 3
3 Why we need a People’s Summit
4 Common but Differentiated Responsibility at Rio+20
Road Map for international endorsement of a Charter of Universal
6 Responsibilities
7 Stable Populations: an Essential Condition for Sustainability
Profile. 4
8 Calling forth Rights of Nature at the Earth Summit Rio+20
9 Rio+20 Side Event Calendar
10 Principle 10: Time for a global convention
7
pic: Ian Wallace
OUTREACH IS PUBLISHED BY: Outreach is a multi-stakeholder publication on OUTREACH EDITORIAL TEAM
climate change and sustainable development.
It is the longest continually produced Editorial Advisors Felix Dodds Stakeholder Forum
stakeholder magazine in the sustainable Farooq Ullah Stakeholder Forum
development arena, published at various
international meetings on the environment; Editor Georgie Macdonald Stakeholder Forum
including the UNCSD meetings (since 1997), Co-editor Amy Cutter Stakeholder Forum
UNEP Governing Council, UNFCCC Conference
of the Parties (COP) and World Water Week. Editorial Assistant Jack Cornforth Stakeholder Forum
Published as a daily edition, in both print Print Designer Jessica Wolf Jessica Wolf Design
and web form, Outreach provides a vehicle
for critical analysis on key thematic topics in Web Designer Thomas Harrisson Stakeholder Forum
the sustainability arena, as well as a voice
of regional and local governments, women, Web Designer Matthew Reading-Smith Stakeholder Forum
About Stakeholder Forum indigenous peoples, trade unions, industry,
youth and NGOs. To fully ensure a multi-
Stakeholder Forum is an international stakeholder perspective, we aim to engage CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
organisation working to advance sustainable a wide range of stakeholders for article
Navi Pillay UN Human Rights chief Roger Martin Population Matters
development and promote democracy at a contributions and project funding.
global level. Our work aims to enhance open, Paul L. Quintos IIbon International Doris Ragettli Rights of Mother Earth
If you are interested in contributing
accountable and participatory international City University of Hong Christine Loh Civic Exchange
decision-making on sustainable development to Outreach, please contact the team Robert Gibson Kong
through enhancing the involvement (gmacdonald@stakeholderforum.org or Gita Parihar Friends of the Earth
of stakeholders in intergovernmental acutter@stakeholderforum.org) Sudha Reddy International Forum of
Ethics & Responsibilities
processes. For more information, visit: You can also follow us on Twitter:
www.stakeholderforum.org @OutreachLive
3. Note from the Editors
Georgie Macdonald and Amy Cutter
Editors for Outreach Magazine, Stakeholder Forum
Yesterday’s 42nd Earth Day Rio+20 offers us an opportunity to make the right
turn and change our course towards a just and
marked yet another milestone sustainable transition. Ban Ki-moon went on to note that
as we approach Rio+20. With “sustainable development recognizes that our economic,
social and environmental objectives are not competing
over 120 Heads of State and goals that must be traded off against each other, but
governments now expected to are interconnected objectives that are most effectively
pursued together in a holistic manner…We need an
attend the Summit – more than outcome from Rio+20 that reflect this understanding and
in 1992 – the pressure is now that relates to the concerns of all.”
mounting for Rio to deliver. The
Over the next two weeks, the Outreach team will be
next two weeks of negotiations tracking the negotiations, engaging stakeholders, covering
serve as one final opportunity events and gathering articles, in order to provide rich
daily insights for those attending the negotiations and
for us to ensure that we enter those following from afar. To help us target certain hot
the Summit on a sure footing and topics and timely discussions, we will be loosely basing
each edition around a series of themes. Today’s theme
produce a successful outcome. is Rights, Responsibility and Principles, continuing the
discussions that emerged in the March meetings.
The challenge was best summarised this month by
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who stated that We would like to invite our readers to contribute to
“The world stands at a crossroads…we need everyone – Outreach over the next nine days and at Rio itself. Below
government ministers and policymakers, business and civil is a list of daily themes, with content deadlines. Articles
society leaders, and young people – to work together to should be between 500-700 words in length (max. 700)
transform our economies, to place our societies on a more and we can also include images. Please contact us if
just and equitable footing, and to protect the resources
and ecosystems on which our shared future depends.” information about Outreach. .
you would like to contribute articles, or would like more
CONTENT DEADLINE
MEETING PUBLICATION DATES THEMES
(5PM EST EACH DAY)
Monday 23rd April Rights, Responsibility & Principles Today’s edition
Tuesday, 24th April Green economy Monday, 23rd April
Wednesday, 25th April Food and Agriculture Monday, 23rd April
Thursday, 26th April Oceans/Blue Economy Tuesday, 24th April
Rio+20: Second round Institutional Framework for Sustainable
of 'informal-informal' Friday, 27th April Wednesday, 25th April
Development
negotiations on the
Zero Draft of Outcome Monday, 30th April Energy Saturday, 28th April
Document Private Sector discussions on Sustainable
Tuesday, 1st May Saturday, 28th April
Development & Rio process
Wednesday, 2nd May Disaster, Risk and Resilience Monday, 30th April
Thursday, 3rd May Youth/Earth Debates Tuesday, 1st May
Friday, 4th May The Final Sprint to Rio Wednesday, 2nd May
1
RIO+20
4. UN Human Rights Chief urges States to inject
Navi Pillay
human rights into Rio+20
UN Human Rights chief
As negotiations on the Rio+20 Conference outcome enter
a critical phase, UN Human Rights chief Navi Pillay has
urged all United Nations Member States to ensure that
human rights are thoroughly integrated in the discussions
and in any final outcome.
Twenty years after the adoption of the landmark
Rio Declaration, the United Nations Conference on pic: Espen Faugstad
Sustainable Development is due to convene in June this
year. Regrettably, said Pillay in a letter sent to all UN because it was “thoroughly infused with human rights
Member States, the draft outcome document of the considerations essential to sustainable development.”
Rio+20 Conference fails to take sufficient account of
human rights imperatives. She called on all Member States to commit to ensuring
full coherence between their international human rights
“In recent years, people have taken to the streets in obligations and efforts to advance the green economy.
every region of the world, passionately demanding their
fundamental human rights – in many instances at great “All policies and measures aimed at advancing sustainable
personal risk,” Pillay said. “For Rio+20 to be successful, development must be firmly grounded in the right to
its outcome must ensure that explicit human rights development, based on the principles of participation,
safeguards are in place.” accountability at the national and international level, non-
discrimination, empowerment and the rule of law,” Pillay said.
Pillay warned that incoherence between international
human rights standards, environmental strategies and “Public and private sector actors must exercise due
economic policies can undercut all three. diligence, including by conducting human rights impact
assessments. They must take particular care to prevent
“Strategies based on the narrow pursuit of economic and remedy any negative impact on the human rights of
growth without due regard for equity and related vulnerable and marginalized groups, including indigenous
environmental, social and human rights considerations, peoples, minorities, migrants, people living in poverty,
will both fail in their economic objectives, and risk older people, individuals with disabilities, and children.
damaging the planet and the fundamental rights of Empowerment of women, the protection of their rights,
people,” she said. and their meaningful participation in decision-making
must be assured.”
The High Commissioner noted that there were numerous
examples of projects aimed at sustainable development Pillay added that States must ensure that explicit attention
seriously impinging on the rights of already vulnerable is paid to protecting the human rights to food, to water
communities, leading to landlessness, homelessness and and sanitation, to health, housing and education, and to
economic dispossession. participation in public affairs.
“Technocratic processes have excluded women from “A strong outcome at Rio, seamlessly integrating the
decision-making, economic and social inequalities have environmental, social, economic, and human rights
been exacerbated, indigenous peoples have seen threats elements of sustainable development, will do much to
to their lands and livelihood from some emission reduction help us advance our collective mission to create a world
schemes, scarce food-growing lands have sometimes free from fear and from want,” the UN rights chief added.
.
been diverted for the production of biofuels, and massive
infrastructure projects have resulted in the forced eviction “I look forward to being a part of this important process.”
and relocations of entire communities,” she said.
“Simply put, participatory, accountable, non- MORE INFO
discriminatory and empowering development is more This text was adapted from a press release from the Office
effective, more just and ultimately more sustainable.” of the High Commissioner on Human Rights published on
18th April 2012.
Pillay said that the 1992 Rio Declaration has been celebrated
for its integrated approach to economic development, For the full text of Navi Pillay’s letter to Member States,
social development and environmental protection – and please visit: www.ohchr.org/EN/Issues/HRAndClimateChange/Pages/
HRClimateChangeIndex.aspx
2
RIO+20
5. Deleting our Rights, Bracketing our Future:
Paul L. Quintos
Why we need a People’s Summit
Ibon International
I think the best way to Language hinting to the need for reform of International
Financial Institutions, the multilateral trading system and
appreciate the need for a the big banks are being dismissed as beyond the remit of
People’s Summit in Rio is to Rio. What happened to integrating the three pillars?
look at what happened at the last The powerful States are consistently opposing prescriptive
round of discussions in March. language that would commit governments to take action
on what they claim to support in principle. On the other
There we witnessed a systematic attempt by some hand, they are pushing for private sector investments and
powerful states to weaken, ‘bracket’, or outright eliminate initiatives to fill in the gap left by the public sector.
nearly all references to human rights obligations and
equity principles in the Outcome Document for Rio+20. If all the attempts from these States to remove rights,
eliminate equity, whittle down Rio principles and avoid
Let’s take the section on Food. One major power has concrete commitments to meaningful reforms in social,
proposed to remove text that refers to the ‘Right to food economic and environmental policies and governance are
and proper nutrition’ while others would like to see the successful, then what are we left with?
‘Right of everyone to have access to safe, sufficient and
nutritious food…’ bracketed. Text that refers to increasing The narrative emerging from these negotiations can only be
agricultural productivity or improving access of small understood in the context of the current global economic
farmers to global markets is accepted, but references crisis. New investment outlets, markets, sources of raw
to ‘Promoting access to land particularly for women, materials and new ways of squeezing more profits from
indigenous peoples and other vulnerable groups’ or the toil of working people are desperately being sought out.
‘specific attention must be paid to challenges faced by
poor smallholders, women and youth including their But governments can’t easily privatise if we assign clear
participation in decision-making…’ are contentious. obligations on states to ensure universal access to water,
which is what rights imply. They can’t expand to biofuel
The same story goes for water. Some States would like plantations if there are safeguards in place to respect
to delete the ‘Right to safe and clean drinking water customary land use rights and practices of indigenous
and sanitation’ from the text. But they agree to ‘efforts peoples. They can’t speculate on commodities and
to improve access’ because this can be met through the derivatives if we have financial regulations in place, and
privatisation of water utilities in order to encourage private they can’t aim for ever expanding capital accumulation
investment. Whereas rights assign the duty to the state. if we insist on the redistribution of resources and
environmental space within planetary boundaries.
It’s not just human rights that are under attack. Principles
already agreed upon in Rio in 1992 – the Polluter Pays Principle, That’s why we need a People’s Summit!
Precautionary Principle, and Common but Differentiated
Responsibility (CBDR) – are also being bracketed. A space where people can more freely and openly discuss
and question the fundamental underpinnings of the global
CBDR is particularly contentious with developed countries economic and political order, embrace new paradigms
which are trying to eliminate prescriptive language that for development and sustainability, and explore truly
would commit them to the provision of finance, technology transformative solutions, not the false solutions that we
transfers and capacity building in support of sustainable have heard so far in the preparatory negotiations.
development effort in the South.
But we can’t abandon the official process either. We
have to send a resounding message to our leaders that
pic: Sergiu Bacioiu we will not allow them to ‘delete’ our rights and ‘bracket’
our futures. We must not allow them to backtrack on the
Rio principles and on human rights obligations. We must
.
make it clear to them that this is not the future we want!
3
RIO+20
6. Common but Differentiated Responsibility
Robert Gibson
at Rio+20
Adjunct Professor, School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong
Action on climate change has Since the Kyoto Protocol, arguments over CBDR have been
one of the biggest barriers to action on climate change.
been weakened by disagreements Most developing countries have refused to agree to anything
on sharing responsibility which they consider to contravene the CBDR principle.
Some developed countries have refused to take additional
between countries. Rio+20 commitments to reduce emissions, as they consider these
should provide an equitable will reduce their ability to compete with rapidly growing
developing countries.
basis for future agreements
by defining how the principle International shipping as an example of CBDR preventing
of Common but Differentiated action on climate change
Responsibility (CBDR) applies
International shipping provides an example of how
to individuals and agreeing
contention around the principle of CBDR can limit action
that the responsibility of each to mitigate climate change. The International Chamber of
country should be the aggregate Shipping (ICS) has proposed putting a carbon price on the
emissions of all international shipping, with most of the
of the responsibilities of its money raised being used to fund mitigation and adaptation
residents. in developing countries. It has highlighted that:
• Its proposal meets the CBDR principle by the
The concept of CBDR was enshrined as Principle 7 of the way money is spent rather than how it raised.
Rio Declaration at the first Rio Earth Summit in 1992. • If the carbon price only applied to shipping
This reads: flagged in developed countries then ship owners
… In view of the different contributions to global will reflag their vessels in developing countries to
environmental degradation, States have common avoid it. This would make the scheme ineffective.
but differentiated responsibilities. The developed
countries acknowledge the responsibility that they bear
The ICS proposal would have raised the cost of
in the international pursuit to sustainable development
emissions from shipping and incentivised reduction of
in view of the pressures their societies place on the
these emissions. More significantly it could have raised
global environment and of the technologies and
substantial funds to help developing countries invest in low
financial resources they command.
carbon technology and adapt to climate change. Developing
countries, however, considered that having a carbon price
The Rio Earth Summit also produced the United Nations
apply to ships flagged in their countries would contravene
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) creating a list
the CBDR principle. They therefore blocked this proposal in
(Annex 1) of ‘developed’ countries incorporating CBDR in
meetings of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO)
its principles:
and the UNFCCC.
The Parties [i.e. Countries] should protect the climate
system for the benefit of present and future generations
of humankind, on the basis of equity and in accordance How CBDR applies to individual citizens
with their common but differentiated responsibilities
and respective capabilities. Accordingly, the developed To see the way forward on this issue, it is helpful to consider
country Parties should take the lead in combating how the arguments that justify CBDR at country level apply
climate change and the adverse effects thereof. to the position of individuals.
1. Firstly, carbon emissions, unchecked for long enough,
In 1997 the Kyoto Protocol required developed countries
will destabilise the climate, adversely impacting the
to reduce their emissions while developing countries only
standard of living and life expectancy of everyone. It is
needed to report their emissions. The USA refused to ratify
therefore in the interest of all individuals to fund action
this agreement partly because it considered the lack of
to achieve low carbon prosperity and thus reduce the
symmetry would create competitive distortions.
risk of destabilising the climate.
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RIO+20
7. 2. The following arguments for the greater responsibility Given the above points we conclude:
of developed countries apply equally to individuals:
1. Any individual, regardless of nationality or country
• Developed countries currently release greater of residence, should pay for the carbon emissions of
per capita emissions and place more pressure their activities which are part of ‘rich world lifestyles’
per capita on the environment and so should - including using fossil-fuelled transport, eating meat
pay more. Similarly, individuals with higher frequently and heating/cooling living spaces of more
consumption place more pressure on the
than modest area per person - and the money generated
environment and so should pay more.
should be used to create low carbon prosperity.
• Developed countries are richer and so can
afford to help fund mitigation and adaption 2. The responsibility of a country should be the aggregate
activities in developing countries. Similarly, of the responsibility of its residents.
individuals who are wealthier can afford to spend
more on preventing the climate from being 3. As there is more enjoyment of ‘rich world lifestyles’
destabilised. in developed countries and more action required to
achieve low carbon prosperity in developing countries
3. The argument that developed countries have ‘historical
there should be a flow of funds from developed to
responsibility’ due to their higher historic carbon
developing countries. As a result, individuals with poor
emissions appears reasonable for countries which have
living standards due to living in developing countries
a continuous existence but is not tenable when applied
should benefit from funds flowing into those countries
to individuals. For example, consider two individuals
to help them achieve low carbon prosperity.
with similar assets and consumption:
• If one of them lives in Bangkok and the other in Strengthening the CBDR principle
Paris should they pay different amounts on their
carbon emissions? Rio+20 should act on these conclusions by updating
• Does the answer change if they have different Principle 7 in the Rio Declaration as follows:
nationalities or have moved to their current States shall cooperate in a spirit of global partnership
country of residence during their lifetime? to conserve, protect and restore the health and integrity
• Does the answer change if they have lived all of the Earth's ecosystem. In view of the different
their lives in one country but their parents, or contributions to global environmental degradation
grandparents moved there from another country? caused by the current differing levels of resource
consumption of their citizens, States have common but
• What should be the position for people who are
differentiated responsibilities. All States acknowledge
half French and half Thai some of whom live in
Paris and some in Bangkok? the responsibility that they bear in the international
pursuit to sustainable development is determined by
the pressures the living standards of their citizens place
The conclusion from asking these questions is that, with on the global environment and by the technologies and
one minor exception, there is no reasonable or practical financial resources they command. Developed countries
way of distinguishing the responsibility of individuals. acknowledge the higher average living standards of
The minor exception is that people in a developed their citizens, and their greater access to technologies
country may have more responsibility due to benefiting and financial resources, increases their responsibility.
from infrastructure whose construction caused past
carbon emissions. This, however, is part of the argument This revised CBDR principle can then become the basis for
that those with a higher standard of living should pay negotiation within the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action
more for action to reduce the risk of destabilising the under the UNFCCC to increase the contribution of emerging
climate and is not, therefore, an additional reason for
differentiating the responsibility of individuals. .
economies to climate change mitigation, in line with the
increase of wealth and consumption of their citizens.
MORE INFO
The concept of ‘common but differentiated responsibilities’
referring to the emissions of individuals was proposed by
Shoibal Chakravarty, Ananth Chikkatur, Heleen de Coninck,
Stephen Pacala, Robert Socolow, and Massimo Tavoni in
"Sharing Global CO2 Emission Reductions Among One
Billion High Emitters."Proceedings of the National Academy
of Sciences of the United States of America (July 6, 2009)
pic: NASA Goddard
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RIO+20
8. Road Map for international endorsement of a
Charter of Universal Responsibilities
Sudha Reddy
International Forum of Ethics & Responsibilities
Since the first international Responsibility is also the core of any social contract
between socio-professional groups and the rest of
conference on environment in
the society, whether it’s scientists, professionals, civil
Stockholm, forty years ago, it has servants, farmers or children. It mitigates corporatist
or sectoral interests, or loyalty to a limited community
become clear that the two pillars of
without the conscience of being part of a larger one. The
the international community – the UN very concept of co-responsibility reflects, from the local to
Charter and the Universal Declaration the global level, this idea of a social contract.
of Human Rights – are no longer Over the last fifteen years, the international negotiations
sufficient to deal with the growing have failed even when our long term survival is at stake.
As a result of the heterogeneity of the state members of
interdependence of humanity and the the UN, all the major states have opted for consensus
biosphere. With the present incapacity conferences with a de facto veto right for every country.
International negotiations have therefore become mere
of our societies to curb development, bargaining between leaders that are only geared by their
and the failure of the international national interests and claiming their sovereignty. They
have become truly negligent of the common good. This
intergovernmental community to make the
cannot be changed except if the international community
decisions most needed to protect our truly acknowledges our global interdependence and its
corollary, the principle of universal responsibility.
future, the adoption of a third pillar
has become urgent. Ethics are the link between personal inner convictions,
which orient our choices and help us solve ethical
Over the years, the Universal Declaration of Human dilemmas, and the law, which is the expression of rules
Rights has been the starting point to define these rights agreed upon by a community as binding for personal
in a broader sense, including the economic, social, and collective behaviour. Common ethics combine the
cultural and environmental rights, which are part of influence of personal choices and orientation of the law.
human dignity and social justice. However, responsibility A Charter of Universal Responsibilities has the potential
is the hidden face of rights and a fair balance between to stimulate responsible behaviour at the individual and
rights and responsibilities is at the core of any true collective levels, be a common ethical reference for the
democracy and bio-civilization. different communities, institutions, stakeholders and
people in positions of power and authority, and the basis
All the reflections about the great transition that we are for international and national laws.
facing due to the shortcomings of the present development
model, underline the fact that beneath the different crises Therefore, representatives of the global civil society must:
there is an ethical crisis, with personal short term material
interests and violent power relations being celebrated by • Urge the governments which will participate in
the present economic and political ideology, at the expense the Rio+20 conference in June 2012 to put the
of relations of reciprocity, compassion and caring, within discussion on the draft of a Charter of Universal
society, and between humanity and nature. Responsibilities and the adopt a road map for
an international endorsement by the UN General
Assembly of a binding Charter within the coming
We need common ethics that have deep roots in our
three years on the institutional framework agenda
different cultures, philosophical or religious traditions,
of the conference; and
and reflect the interconnectedness of our universe to run
our fragile and only planet. Responsibility – reciprocity, • Support the ‘Call on Governments’ issued by the
caring and management of the commons – is at the International Network of Ethics and Responsibilities
and cascade it through different networks.
core of communities, and hence this common ethic.
Therefore, even the poorest persons and communities
claim, not only their rights, but also their responsibility MORE INFO
– towards children, elders and the commons – as the Find the draft of ‘Charter of Universal Responsibilities’
expression of being a citizen. & ‘Call on Governments’ on the International Forum of
.
Ethics & Responsibilities website: www.ethica-respons.net
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RIO+20
9. Stable Populations:
an Essential Condition for Sustainability
Roger Martin
Chair, Population Matters
part of our finite planet. Conversely, building ever more
schools, hospitals and roads just to maintain standards for
an ever-expanding population brings no additional benefit
to anyone; so it is not real ‘investment’, it’s just running
to stand still – as every African Education Minister knows
– and leaves less money for actual improvements; so long-
term poverty persists.
Yet population growth is a variable, not a ‘given’. Clearly
sustainable prosperity will be far easier to achieve, the
nearer to 8.1 billion the population stabilises. All it needs is
priority, and resources: in developing countries for (strictly
non-coercive) family planning and women’s education
and empowerment programmes; in developed countries
for public information programmes/incentives, aiming
pic: UN/ Kibae Park
to balance individual reproductive rights (which must be
respected) with social and environmental responsibilities
Population is a sensitive topic; but anyone genuinely to current and future generations. Ending unintended
concerned for the planet their children will inherit cannot pregnancies – 40% of the total – could achieve the goal.
ignore it. Everyone has a right to take control of their own
fertility and have as many children as they wish. But they Resources for family planning are the key. There are
also have a responsibility to take account of how their currently 215 million women (and rising) with an unmet
choices affect everyone else. The fact remains that, on our need for family planning. Yet total world aid for family
finite and degrading planet, population growth is, together planning is only 10% of the Goldman Sachs bonus pot,
with consumption, a multiplier of all our environmental and EU aid for family planning is only 0.4% of total EU aid
and resource problems. These all become harder, and – derisory figures. Priority for family planning is low, partly
ultimately impossible to solve with ever more people. because the ‘population’ problem has in recent years been
As Kofi Annan has said: “Population stabilization should marginalised as one largely of sexual and reproductive
become a priority for sustainable development.” health and women’s rights; whereas in reality it affects the
long-term prospects of success for all programmes across
The environmental impact of recent growth – all Departments. The additional cost of meeting the unmet
unprecedented in human history – is huge. Our numbers need for family planning, some $3.4 billion per year, is
have more than tripled to 7 billion in my lifetime, still about half what Americans spend on Halloween.
growing at 80 million per year or 10,000 per hour, and
projected by 2050 to be between 8.1 and 10.6 billion – a The implications for Rio+20 are clear. Ignoring the
range of 2.5 billion, or the Earth’s entire population in population multiplier guarantees ultimate failure for all
1950. Each additional person needs more food, water, sustainable development initiatives, since ever-rising
and energy and produces more waste, CO2 and pollution populations will overwhelm any development gains. The
(the rich consuming and polluting more than the poor, conference must recognise this, and include priority for
of course). So all population growth: increases soil family planning among its key recommendations. “Family
exhaustion, erosion, desertification, habitat destruction, planning could do more good for more people at less cost
deforestation, aquifer depletion, climate change, sea level than any other known technology” (UNICEF).
rise, and chemical or pathogenic pollution; and reduces
the finite and dwindling natural resources available per The consequences of continued silence on this key issue
person. There is an ethical principle behind the saying: will be grim. Indefinite population growth being physically
“It’s no use reducing your footprint if you keep increasing impossible, it is certain to end at some point. But this can
the number of feet”. only happen: either sooner by fewer births; or later by more
deaths. Maurice Strong, Secretary of the first Rio Earth
The economics matter. Smaller populations can
sustainably consume more resources per person than larger
ones, while remaining within the biophysical limits of their
.
Summit, put it bluntly: “Either we reduce our numbers
voluntarily, or nature will do it for us brutally”.
7
RIO+20
10. profile. Christine Loh
How did you get to the role you are in today and what People make things happen. To strive for
sustainable development, it may mean existing
advice would you give aspiring earth champions?
vested interests are affected. Those advocating
for change can face all sorts of pressure to stop.
I founded Civic Exchange in 2000 after I stepped
Thus, human rights – especially of freedom of
down from the legislature in order to focus on
expression and association – need to be protected.
policy research to find solutions to problems,
including environmental/ecological issues. For
Nationality: Chinese How important is the RIO+20 process and what do you
aspiring Earth Champions, I would like to say
that they are on the right path because restoring think the priorities for action should be in 2012 in the run
Country of residence:
Hong Kong
ecosystems is one of the most important things up to the summit?
humans can do today.
The Rio+20 process should transcend nationalities
Current Position: CEO of
non-profit think-tank Civic What do you believe should be achieved at Rio+20? and cultures and produce action across public
and private spheres to support the transition to a
Exchange
The world faces problems that are global in green economy. Before the summit, there needs to
nature. Climate change, extreme weather events be greater outreach in all communities so people
including flooding and drought, biodiversity loss, know Rio+20 is happening and people can see
desertification, famine, financial crisis, terrorism what they can do on the ground at home. Most
and war. It is necessary that humanity come people can’t go to Rio but they can log-on and
together to solve these problems collectively. see what happens there and look at the outcomes.
Although we are not yet very good at it, we are Furthermore, irrespective of the outcomes,
learning to act as a species on a planetary scale communities can still act locally.
in order to ensure the future is sustainable.
Rio+20 is one step on the pathway to Favourite quote:
sustainability. Thus, the most important thing is
for a consensus to be reached on a global scale 'Ecosystems functions are more valuable than
among policy makers. material consumption'. This is the conclusion from
Following the discussions on rights at the Rio+20 will be at Rio+20. .
John D Liu, ecological film maker and teacher who
negotiations, why is the inclusion of human rights within
international sustainable development so important?
Calling forth Rights of Nature at the Earth Summit Rio+20
Doris Ragettli
Rights of Mother Earth All humans and other beings are part of Planet The time has come for society to restructure
Earth, an indivisible, living community of the fundamental framework of our governance
interrelated forms. However, nature is treated as systems as they relate to the relationship of
property under current law around the world. humans and the environment.
The economic wellbeing and income generation
of society can no longer be dependent on the The grassroots movement www.RightsOfMotherEarth.com
destruction of nature. There are alternative ways, is delivering thousands of signatures to the Rio+20
which call forth a quantum shift in thinking and Earth Summit and requesting the acceptance and
acting on a global level. implementation of the Universal Declaration of
Rights of Mother Earth by all Nations.
Our call is for civil society, corporations,
governments and the UN, to recognise nature as We invite you to be the voice for Mother Earth at
a living being, in all its life forms, with the right the Earth Summit Rio+20. Visit our petition site
to exist, persist, maintain and regenerate its
vital cycles rather than being seen as property
– a resource to be consumed and exploited.
com/1/yes-to-rights-of-nature/ .
and say yes to Rights of Nature: www.thepetitionsite.
8
RIO+20
11. Rio+20 Side Event Calendar
Date Time Room Title Organisers
1:15-2:45 6 The future Local and regional governments want United Cities and Local Governments
World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA), Biovision,
23 April 2012
1:15-2:45 A Implementing sustainable, humane agriculture foundation for ecological development, International Partners for
Sustainable Agriculture (IPSA)
Rio+20 Issues Cluster on Innovation & 15/15/15 UN - Civil Society Partnership International Association for the Advancement of Innovative (IAAI)
6:15-7:45 7
Formula Approaches to Global Challenges
Environmental Health Initiatives: Innovative Approaches for Building
1:15-2:45 A Parliamentarians for Global Action
Sustainable Cities
1:15-2:45 7 Responding to the Global Soil Crisis Permanent Mission of Australia to the UN
24 April 2012
Gorakhpur Environmental Action Group (GEAG); Public Advocacy
Initiatives for Rights and Values in India (PAIRVI); Centre for
1:15-2:45 4 Reclaiming the ’92 Earth Summit and Revisiting the Rio+20 Agenda
Community Economics and Development Consultants Society
(CECOEDECON); and Beyond Copenhagen
6:15-7:45 A Promoting Rights and Equity through Sustainable Development Goals IBON International and Both Ends
1:15-2:45 A SDGs: Evolution or More of the Same? WWF-UK
Rio+20: Towards sustainable agriculture and a world free of hunger - An
1:15-2:45 7 interactive dialogue with the Rome-based Agencies and the Committee on Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
25 April 2012
World Food Security (CFS)
Sustainable Mobility on the Road to Rio+20: Priorities and Actions across Major
1:15-2:45 4 Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP)
Groups
United Nations Environment Programme- Division of Technology,
6:15-7:45 7 Resource Efficient Cities as drivers of change
Industry and Economics (UNEP-DTIE)
1:15-2:45 4 The Future We Want for Rio+20 on Oceans and Seas UN DPI
26 April 2012
Governments of Slovenia, Costa Rica, Cape Verde, Iceland, Singapore,
1:15-2:45 A Global outlook and local action: water and energy for sustainable development
UAE (the Green Group)
Blue Carbon as a Tool to Mitigate Climate Change and Preserve Key Marine and
6:15-7:45 7 UNESCO, Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC)
Coastal Ecosystems
The State of the World Environment told by UNEP’s GEO-5 report and Global
1:15-2:45 7 United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
27 April 2012
Solutions for Sustainability
1:15-2:45 A Rights at Risk: Decoding the Green Economy France Libertes Foundation Danielle Mitterrand
1:15-2:45 4 Planet Under pressure ICSU-UNESCO-IGBP
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RIO+20
12. Principle 10: Time for a global convention
Gita Parihar
Head of Legal, Friends of the Earth
20 years ago, on the threshold of a new millennium and in hopes environmentally oppressed planet. While regional approaches
of creating a brave new world, a momentous summit took place and conventions would continue to exist alongside it; a global
in Brazil. The legal frameworks and principles adopted then have convention would provide baseline standards for all. As a
set the stage for all environmental progress since. Amongst these result, any country that so chose could benefit from better
were the visionary principles of the Rio declaration. Principle 10 environmental decision-making, whether or not its neighbours
contains a simple but fundamental truth: the best way to achieve wished to do so.
good environmental decision-making is through the ‘participation
of all concerned citizens’, furnished with rights of information, Principle 10 magic is not restricted to the national level. As
participation and access to justice. any member of the civil society constituencies excluded from
the climate negotiations in Copenhagen will tell you; our
In the UNECE region, where I am from, this principle was access to negotiations is not treated as a right but instead as a
developed and made legally binding through the Aarhus privilege to be granted or withheld at the whim of the particular
Convention. The European Union then took the provisions of international institution or process concerned. In our globalised
the Aarhus Convention and applied them to its Member States world, it is simply not acceptable for decision-making on the
through internal legislation. Sometimes I wonder how it would greater environmental good to be made without the awareness
have been possible to work as an environmental lawyer before and involvement of concerned citizens. A global Principle 10
this happened. Without legally binding Principle 10 rights I would Convention would play a vital role in developing guidelines to
not be able to access information to understand the negative apply Principle 10 at the international level, building on work
(and positive) impacts of proposed projects, help members of done through the Aarhus Convention.
the public to have their say on development in their area, or
challenge bad environmental decision-making in court on behalf I watch attempts to backslide from this wonderful principle
of communities (or the organisation I work for), because of the with growing dismay. All states must acknowledge the basic
legal costs. Has the ability to do this resulted in more thoughtful legal principle of non-regression, you cannot go back from the
environmental decision-making with better outcomes for the standards you agreed 20 years ago. Instead, the opportunity
planet? The answer in my view is an unqualified yes. of returning to their first home should be seized. Principle
10 is neither loud nor attention-seeking, but when it is legally
With this in mind, what better way to celebrate Principle 10’s binding it quietly achieves positive steps towards sustainable
20th birthday than by giving it a global convention as a home?
This would fling open its doors to the entire population of our Rio could there be than that?.
development every single day. And what better outcome from
pic: Girl Guyed
Outreach is made possible by the support of