European Union
Mister Chairman, Mister Assistant Secretary General,
Excellencies, Distinguished delegates,
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the E uropean Union (EU) and its 27 Member States.
Let me first congratulate you once again for the effective manner in which you led the
Intergovernmental Preparatory Meeting (IPM) held here in New York two months ago. We
think that the IPM achieved the objective of paving the way for a successful policy session at
CSD 19, and we are convinced that under your leadership, we will reach meaningful
agreement on a complete set of policy options and actions on the thematic issues of the
current CSD cycle.
During the IPM we had the opportunity to exchange views on all the themes of the current
cycle and we believe that progress was made in terms of mutual understanding and
convergence of positions. The decisions the CSD 19 will take on SCP and on the other issues
of the current cycle should contribute to the green economy agenda of the UNCSD 2012.
Mr Chairman,
Your draft negotiating document lays down the foundation for a successful CSD 19. We
believe that it is a very good basis for our work, as it reflects the outcome of the IPM in a fair
and balanced manner.
I would now like to outline the general approach of the EU and its Member States on each of
the different themes, as this is the basis on which we will suggest amendments to the Chair's
text in the forthcoming negotiations.
On the 10-Year Framework of Programmes on Sustainable Production and Consumption
Patterns (10 YFP on SCP)
Our clear and main objective for this 19th session of the CSD is to adopt a decision
establishing the 10 YFP on SCP (2011-2021). Clear commitment at the highest politic al level
is essential in order to ensure the implementation of such decision as well as of its subsequent
programmes.
We would like to confirm our satisfaction about the approach of the draft negotiating text on
10 YFP on SCP, which put us on the right track that we need in order to start fruitful and
constructive negotiations. The draft text goes some way towards reflecting our aim for
establishing an ambitious, operational and coherent framework of programmes on the basis of
a common vision inspired by all our previous sustainable development commitments.
SCP have particularly strong linkages with the four other thematic issues of the 4th
implementation cycle, and a strong framework on SCP will thus bring important mutual
benefits.
By placing political priority on SCP (producing more from less), we will reach a threefold
win: promote poverty eradication, create jobs and slow down climate change.
In this regard, we also call for the involvement of all relevant stakeholders, including the
private sector.
On Inter-linkages and Cross-cutting issues
We welcome the constructive discussion that took place on Inter-linkages and cross -cutting
issues. In this context, just like the EU and its Member States, many other delegations referred
to issues such as poverty eradication, resource efficiency, gender equality, education or
capacity building.
Much remains to be done, however, and action is required by all of us. We see the CSD-19
decisions as a way to make progress on efficient provision of means of implementation as this
is a critical element for implementing global, regional and national level policies related to the
themes on the current CSD-cycle.
Regarding financial support, we would like to recall our preference for the full, efficient and
effective use of existing resources and sources of funding when implementing the decisions of
CSD 19.
On Transport
At the IPM we noted a broad consensus among participants on the pressing challenges on
Transport, especially concerning clean, affordable, accessible, efficient and healthy transport
systems in urban areas and access deficits in rural areas.
Regarding the Chair's text we think that the environmental dimension should be strengthened.
We would like to point out that a comprehensive approach dealing with the growing transport
challenges includes also environmental problems and climate change effects. In particular, we
would like to point out again that a highly energy efficient transport is needed to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions and that we need special measures to achieve it.
This comprehensive approach on transport should also address human health problems and
accessibility aspects, mainly for the elderly and disabled people.
It should be made clear that there is no "one-size -fits-all" approac h to meet the above
challenges in a national or regional context. Many countries have already gained positive
experience with tailor -made planning, regulatory, economic and technological measures as
well as communication strategies others can benefit from.
Furthermore, we explicitly plead for the development of reliable transport databases and tools
as well as reporting mechanisms on the basis of an agreed set of indicators, explored in a
participatory process.
We call on the CSD 19 to take up the above aspects in order to foster a globally harmonized
and consistent progress in developing sustainable transport patterns worldwide.
On Chemicals
The EU and its Member States consider that much progress has been made, but more needs to
be done, to improve the sound management of chemicals in a sustainable manner. The 2002
World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) set an ambitious target for 2020 which
will only be reached if efforts at national, regional and global levels are stepped up.
We welcome in particular the advances that are being made under the Globally Harmonized
System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS), the Strategic Approach to
International Chemicals Management (SAICM), the mercury negotiations, and efforts to
improve the coherence, co-operation and coordination between the chemicals and waste
Conventions.
We note that the UNEP -led Consultative Process on Financing Options for chemicals and
Wastes is ongoing and that it is too early to prejudge its outcome. However, all viable
solutions must remain on the table and be explored further.
We need to continue seeking further support for improvement in the long term cooperation
among existing and new chemicals management instruments, so that we do not add
complexity to the s ystem, duplicate efforts or compete for resources.
On Waste management
The IPM discussions have shown that there is a common understanding on the need to
formulate and implement policies that, through an integrated approach, firstly put a strong
emphasis on waste prevention and minimization, and secondly support effective and efficient
management of the remaining wastes, focusing in the following priority order on reuse,
recycling, on the recovery of useful materials and energy, as well as on environmentally
sound disposal.
When establishing a long-term waste management strategy, we do believe that clear
responsibilities and strict requirements are crucial and that a mix of legislative, non-legislative
and economic instruments together with clear political objectives is most effective .
Hazardous waste should be regulated under strict specifications in order to prevent or limit, as
far as possible, the potential negative effects on the environment and on human health due to
inappropriate management. We consider that it is vital to move towards increased safe and
environmentally sound management of hazardous waste by supporting the role of the Basel
Convention in the field of hazardous waste management, especially when it comes to the
issues of illegal shipment of waste and the e-waste challenge.
In the field of radioactive waste management, we would like to recall the fundamental
principles of the Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety
of Radioactive Waste Management under the auspices of the International Atomic Energy
Agency, as well as the importance of putting in place national programmes on spent fuel and
radioactive waste management.
On Mining
From the very fruitful discussions held during IPM on Mining, it resulted clear that there is
broad agreement on the need to introduce a more sustainable holistic approach to the mining
sector in general.
This IPM meeting provided a useful picture of the main challenges in this area. The need for
good governance at all levels, the fair sharing of benefits from mining activities between
national institutions and local communities, the promotion of transparency and the
implementation of relevant international conventions have inter alia been emphasized during
the discussions.
We have listened to calls for more support in terms of sound technology, know-how, capacity
building and financial means. The EU and its Member States will continue to support
developing countries in their efforts to establish a sustainable mining sector. The EU Raw
Materials Initiative indeed takes these objectives into account.
We would like to recall as well that part of the income generated by mining should be
channeled specifically to the environmental recovery of abandoned and orphan mining areas.
Finally, we welcome the clear reference in the Chair's text to the need to take steps to
eradicate all forms of child labour in mining, since child labour is one of the EU's main
concerns.
Final remark
In conclusion, Mr Chairman, I am confident that we will continue working in the same
constructive and open mood of the IPM and I wish to underline that the EU and its Member
States are ready and willing to work jointly with all CSD members and all other stakeholders
with a view to reach a successful and ambitious outcome of this CSD cycle that will
accurately reflect the core of sustainable development in relation to all these topics.
Thank you for your attention.
Excellencies, Distinguished delegates,
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the E uropean Union (EU) and its 27 Member States.
Let me first congratulate you once again for the effective manner in which you led the
Intergovernmental Preparatory Meeting (IPM) held here in New York two months ago. We
think that the IPM achieved the objective of paving the way for a successful policy session at
CSD 19, and we are convinced that under your leadership, we will reach meaningful
agreement on a complete set of policy options and actions on the thematic issues of the
current CSD cycle.
During the IPM we had the opportunity to exchange views on all the themes of the current
cycle and we believe that progress was made in terms of mutual understanding and
convergence of positions. The decisions the CSD 19 will take on SCP and on the other issues
of the current cycle should contribute to the green economy agenda of the UNCSD 2012.
Mr Chairman,
Your draft negotiating document lays down the foundation for a successful CSD 19. We
believe that it is a very good basis for our work, as it reflects the outcome of the IPM in a fair
and balanced manner.
I would now like to outline the general approach of the EU and its Member States on each of
the different themes, as this is the basis on which we will suggest amendments to the Chair's
text in the forthcoming negotiations.
On the 10-Year Framework of Programmes on Sustainable Production and Consumption
Patterns (10 YFP on SCP)
Our clear and main objective for this 19th session of the CSD is to adopt a decision
establishing the 10 YFP on SCP (2011-2021). Clear commitment at the highest politic al level
is essential in order to ensure the implementation of such decision as well as of its subsequent
programmes.
We would like to confirm our satisfaction about the approach of the draft negotiating text on
10 YFP on SCP, which put us on the right track that we need in order to start fruitful and
constructive negotiations. The draft text goes some way towards reflecting our aim for
establishing an ambitious, operational and coherent framework of programmes on the basis of
a common vision inspired by all our previous sustainable development commitments.
SCP have particularly strong linkages with the four other thematic issues of the 4th
implementation cycle, and a strong framework on SCP will thus bring important mutual
benefits.
By placing political priority on SCP (producing more from less), we will reach a threefold
win: promote poverty eradication, create jobs and slow down climate change.
In this regard, we also call for the involvement of all relevant stakeholders, including the
private sector.
On Inter-linkages and Cross-cutting issues
We welcome the constructive discussion that took place on Inter-linkages and cross -cutting
issues. In this context, just like the EU and its Member States, many other delegations referred
to issues such as poverty eradication, resource efficiency, gender equality, education or
capacity building.
Much remains to be done, however, and action is required by all of us. We see the CSD-19
decisions as a way to make progress on efficient provision of means of implementation as this
is a critical element for implementing global, regional and national level policies related to the
themes on the current CSD-cycle.
Regarding financial support, we would like to recall our preference for the full, efficient and
effective use of existing resources and sources of funding when implementing the decisions of
CSD 19.
On Transport
At the IPM we noted a broad consensus among participants on the pressing challenges on
Transport, especially concerning clean, affordable, accessible, efficient and healthy transport
systems in urban areas and access deficits in rural areas.
Regarding the Chair's text we think that the environmental dimension should be strengthened.
We would like to point out that a comprehensive approach dealing with the growing transport
challenges includes also environmental problems and climate change effects. In particular, we
would like to point out again that a highly energy efficient transport is needed to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions and that we need special measures to achieve it.
This comprehensive approach on transport should also address human health problems and
accessibility aspects, mainly for the elderly and disabled people.
It should be made clear that there is no "one-size -fits-all" approac h to meet the above
challenges in a national or regional context. Many countries have already gained positive
experience with tailor -made planning, regulatory, economic and technological measures as
well as communication strategies others can benefit from.
Furthermore, we explicitly plead for the development of reliable transport databases and tools
as well as reporting mechanisms on the basis of an agreed set of indicators, explored in a
participatory process.
We call on the CSD 19 to take up the above aspects in order to foster a globally harmonized
and consistent progress in developing sustainable transport patterns worldwide.
On Chemicals
The EU and its Member States consider that much progress has been made, but more needs to
be done, to improve the sound management of chemicals in a sustainable manner. The 2002
World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) set an ambitious target for 2020 which
will only be reached if efforts at national, regional and global levels are stepped up.
We welcome in particular the advances that are being made under the Globally Harmonized
System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS), the Strategic Approach to
International Chemicals Management (SAICM), the mercury negotiations, and efforts to
improve the coherence, co-operation and coordination between the chemicals and waste
Conventions.
We note that the UNEP -led Consultative Process on Financing Options for chemicals and
Wastes is ongoing and that it is too early to prejudge its outcome. However, all viable
solutions must remain on the table and be explored further.
We need to continue seeking further support for improvement in the long term cooperation
among existing and new chemicals management instruments, so that we do not add
complexity to the s ystem, duplicate efforts or compete for resources.
On Waste management
The IPM discussions have shown that there is a common understanding on the need to
formulate and implement policies that, through an integrated approach, firstly put a strong
emphasis on waste prevention and minimization, and secondly support effective and efficient
management of the remaining wastes, focusing in the following priority order on reuse,
recycling, on the recovery of useful materials and energy, as well as on environmentally
sound disposal.
When establishing a long-term waste management strategy, we do believe that clear
responsibilities and strict requirements are crucial and that a mix of legislative, non-legislative
and economic instruments together with clear political objectives is most effective .
Hazardous waste should be regulated under strict specifications in order to prevent or limit, as
far as possible, the potential negative effects on the environment and on human health due to
inappropriate management. We consider that it is vital to move towards increased safe and
environmentally sound management of hazardous waste by supporting the role of the Basel
Convention in the field of hazardous waste management, especially when it comes to the
issues of illegal shipment of waste and the e-waste challenge.
In the field of radioactive waste management, we would like to recall the fundamental
principles of the Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety
of Radioactive Waste Management under the auspices of the International Atomic Energy
Agency, as well as the importance of putting in place national programmes on spent fuel and
radioactive waste management.
On Mining
From the very fruitful discussions held during IPM on Mining, it resulted clear that there is
broad agreement on the need to introduce a more sustainable holistic approach to the mining
sector in general.
This IPM meeting provided a useful picture of the main challenges in this area. The need for
good governance at all levels, the fair sharing of benefits from mining activities between
national institutions and local communities, the promotion of transparency and the
implementation of relevant international conventions have inter alia been emphasized during
the discussions.
We have listened to calls for more support in terms of sound technology, know-how, capacity
building and financial means. The EU and its Member States will continue to support
developing countries in their efforts to establish a sustainable mining sector. The EU Raw
Materials Initiative indeed takes these objectives into account.
We would like to recall as well that part of the income generated by mining should be
channeled specifically to the environmental recovery of abandoned and orphan mining areas.
Finally, we welcome the clear reference in the Chair's text to the need to take steps to
eradicate all forms of child labour in mining, since child labour is one of the EU's main
concerns.
Final remark
In conclusion, Mr Chairman, I am confident that we will continue working in the same
constructive and open mood of the IPM and I wish to underline that the EU and its Member
States are ready and willing to work jointly with all CSD members and all other stakeholders
with a view to reach a successful and ambitious outcome of this CSD cycle that will
accurately reflect the core of sustainable development in relation to all these topics.
Thank you for your attention.