On Thursday morning, delegates considered the 10-year framework of programmes (10YFP) on sustainable consumption and production (SCP). The session was facilitated by CSD Chair László Borbély, who noted broad support at CSD 18 for a 10YFP, and progress during a High-level Intersessional Meeting held in Panama City in January 2011. Observing that many SCP initiatives are already in place at the national and local levels, Chair Borbély said CSD is the only intergovernmental forum that offers governments an opportunity to take an integrated perspective based on economic, social and environmental objectives. He said the 10YFP could provide a global framework and reduce fragmentation, recognizing national sovereignty and differences. Delegates were then briefed by DSD Director Tariq Banuri on the Secretary-General’s report on the 10YFP (E/CN.17/2011/8). They also heard three expert panelists give presentations on existing SCP initiatives and the characteristics of a future 10YFP. Following the panel presentations, many delegates made interventions. Most endorsed adopting a 10YFP at CSD 19 and made particular recommendations or suggestions about what the 10YPF should and should not do, as well as possible institutional arrangements.

On Thursday afternoon, the IPM held a session on interlinkages and cross-cutting issues. It was chaired by CSD Vice Chair Andrew Goledzinowski (Australia), who noted many linkages among the five thematic areas under consideration at CSD 18/19. Delegates were then briefed on the Secretary-General’s report (E/CN.17/2011/3). Following this, three experts gave panel presentations focused on relevant policies and investments, technologies and how to consolidate governance across various sustainable development processes and treaties. Delegates highlighted various interlinkages, with some highlighting progress in finding synergies among the chemicals-related treaties as a positive trend example.