Opportunity: Make use of existing instruments
? One of the implementation challenges with regard to the themes of the current
cycle is the fact that for many of the issues we already have specific international
instruments in place such as the chemicals and waste conventions, SAICM etc.
? While it will be necessary to create new international instruments and approaches
for new and emerging issues such as mercury and other chemicals of global
concerns such as nanomaterials and nanotechnologies, we should make sure
that we do not promote a mushrooming of institutions, frameworks and
conventions.
? We also have to make sure that old and new instruments are future proof; that
they are able to take up new similar challenges so that we do not have to renegotiate
for each specific issue a specific regime, but can work in a
comprehensive, coherent, synergetic, efficient and effective manner. The
development of a new convention on the heavy metals mercury will be a golden
opportunity to move towards such an effective and efficient flexible and future
proof approach.
Focus on issues where the CSD can make a difference
? The main focus of our deliberations should be on issues where the CSD can
make a difference.
? The uniqueness of the CSD is that it allows us to consider certain issues in a
broader context than we usually do within more specialized processes. In this
sense, we think that the issue of governance in the chemicals and waste cluster is
one particular area where the CSD could make a very useful contribution.
? The CSD could underline that there is still a considerable potential to further
enhancing coordination, cooperation and coherence in the chemicals and waste
cluster and that there are a lot more synergies between the existing and possible
new instruments that can be realized to the benefit of a more sustainable
development. The CSD could underline the need for a comprehensive, coherent
and forward looking global chemicals and waste regime.
? The complex issue of promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns
presents another opportunity of the current CSD cycle. Here, we do not yet have
any instruments in place that provide a framework for further action. Therefore,
SCP probably is the issue where the CSD can make the most important
contribution by providing the platform for establishing a 10 Year Framework of
Programmes.
Proposal by the CSD 17: Creation of the Taks Force for Implementation
? Yesterday, at the opening of the High Level Segment Minister Gerda Verburg, the
former Chairperson of CSD 17, proposed the creation of a task force ?to boost the
implementation of CSD decisions?. We would be interested to learn more about
this proposal.
- How would such a Task Force operate?
- What could it do to concretely to boost implementation of CSD decisions?
- Who would participate in such a Task Force?
Challenge: Need to communicate better what sustainable development is about
? Sustainable development needs an ambassador who is able to explain what it is
about in simple terms. As stressed by the US in the straight talk session this
morning: people need to understand the relevance of our decisions. Basically,
what would be needed is someone who can do for sustainable development what
Al Gore did for the climate change issue.
