It was a pleasure to listen to the panellists this morning, presenting very interesting examples
of partnerships. We noted that in practically all of them the scientific, engineering and
technology communities were among the partners and we stand ready to enhance our
involvement.
The Scientific and Technological Community major group also very much welcomes calls
made by a number of governments and regional groups during last week?s discussions ?
unfortunately only partly included in the Chair?s Summary - to strengthen partnerships
involving our major group of scientists, engineers and technology experts. These calls related
to developing jointly innovation and R&D strategies at all levels for the CSD-18 topical
areas, as well as partnerships on scientific and technological capacity building, the
development of new environmentally sound technologies, and the transfer of such
technologies, where appropriate, including South-South cooperation.
Research partnerships and information exchanges on chemical risks, waste management, and
transforming the transport and mining sectors are vital for overcoming major obstacles to
sustainable development in these CSD-18 topical areas.
A 10-Year-Programme on Sustainable Consumption and Production will have to be built on a
wide range of partnerships, and the involvement of the Scientific and Technological
Community, including the social and economic sciences, will be essential.
There exist many examples of ongoing partnership initiatives with our communities either in
the lead or as a major partner. Earlier this morning, we heard from Mr. (Mauricio) Fernandes
about the successful International Year of Planet Earth in 2009 which represented a
partnership between the earth sciences community, UN organizations, governments, private
sector and civil society organizations. Next year 2011, coinciding with CSD-19, will be the
International Year of Chemistry, lead by the International Union of Chemistry and
UNESCO, which will strive to build an equally large partnership as for the IYPE.
Enhancing knowledge through sound research - and technology through sound engineering
will be pivotal for achieving sound policies and technological innovation. We are involved
with relevant UN system organizations in worldwide scientific research and assessment
partnerships on several major global environmental change issues, such as climate change
and biodiversity loss. With WMO and many governments, we are currently involved in the
development of a Global Framework of Climate Information Services.
Finally, I wish to refer to our strong partnership links with most of our Major Groups
partners. The Farming First partnership involving the Farmers, Business and Industry and
Scientific and Technological Community major groups is an excellent example in this regard.
Thank you.
