ENB:13:25
[Next] .
[Previous] .
[Contents]
PROGRAMME ELEMENT I.2: UNDERLYING CAUSES OF DEFORESTATION AND DEGRADATION
Working Group I held initial discussions on programme element I.2 on 12 September. Ralph Schmidt (UNDP) introduced the Secretary-General’s report on underlying causes of deforestation and forest degradation (E/CN.17/IPF/1996/15). The report addresses methods for judging optimum forest cover and considers the usefulness of a diagnostic framework to assist countries in identifying the causes of deforestation and forest degradation (D&FD). The report contains conclusions and proposals for action on consumption and production patterns, a national policy framework and application of the diagnostic framework.
The G-77/CHINA, COLOMBIA, MALI and the PHILIPPINES noted a lack of proposals for addressing social and economic factors in D&FD and dissimilarities between deforestation and degradation. Along with the EU and BRAZIL, the G-77/CHINA emphasized historical lessons. NORWAY noted that national policy frameworks must adhere to similar principles in all countries. INDIA noted that deforestation can physically cross political boundaries. The PHILIPPINES emphasized natural causes of forest destruction. UGANDA and ZIMBABWE called for balanced treatment of developed and developing countries and said actions can precede studies. The NETHERLANDS called for determination of desired forest cover.
On the diagnostic framework, SOUTH AFRICA supported its establishment. CHINA called for voluntary diagnostic frameworks. KENYA called for a flexible diagnostic framework and capacity-building assistance, and rejected efforts to compare case study results. ZIMBABWE called for diagnostic frameworks to address implementation strategies and financing requirements. ECUADOR encouraged international support for testing a diagnostic framework.
On consumption and production, MALI, supported by UGANDA and ZIMBABWE, stressed energy needs as a cause of D&FD, and, supported by CAMEROON and INDIA, called for poverty alleviation. ECUADOR and GABON called for increased attention to the effects of oil prospecting and consumption. The US sought characterization of long- term trends in consumption and production of forests and forest products. The EU, supported by the NETHERLANDS and FINLAND, noted unplanned causes of D&FD and supported further analysis of international causes. FUNDACION NATURA said international causes of deforestation, such as poverty, transboundary pollution and consumption patterns, must be addressed. NEW ZEALAND noted the role of plantation forests in mitigating forest degradation and encouraged their use.
A draft negotiating text was discussed on 18 September. The G-77/CHINA, supported by COLOMBIA, emphasized: production and consumption patterns; non-market values of forest goods and services; studies on historical causes of D&FD; and discriminatory international trade practices. COLOMBIA proposed language acknowledging the need for an international meeting to discuss the underlying causes of D&FD.
The G-77/CHINA proposed Forest Principles language on “management, conservation and sustainable development of all types of forests” for several locations in the text. The US proposed using “SFM.” Supported by JAPAN and CANADA, he said a reference to environmental impact assessments should be included as an example of mechanisms to improve policy formulation and coordination rather than as a separate point. The EU specified language on the “promotion of open and participatory programmes for the implementation of NFPs, taking into account D&FD.” She also called for: formulation of mechanisms aimed at the equitable sharing of benefits from the forests; policies for securing land tenure for indigenous peoples and local communities; and prompt government action when direct or indirect causes have been identified.
On production and consumption patterns, the US called for further study of the conclusions from a recent Norwegian conference on consumption and production patterns as underlying causes of D&FD. The EU deleted a statement that poverty and consumption patterns have a major influence on deforestation and urged governments, “where relevant,” to prepare strategic studies of the implications of “current” consumption and production patterns for forests. JAPAN proposed deleting language to address terms of trade, discriminatory trade practices and unsustainable policies related to sectors such as agriculture and energy.
On diagnostic frameworks, the EU proposed deleting language stating that such frameworks should not be used as a basis for ODA conditionality. NEW ZEALAND, on behalf of AUSTRALIA, CHILE, CHINA, SOUTH AFRICA and UGANDA, urged countries to actually use the diagnostic framework as an analytical tool in assessing options for utilization of forests and forest lands. CANADA called for all countries to undertake case studies using the diagnostic framework, as well as research, technology transfer and capacity-building activities. Environmental NGOs called for donor assistance to developing countries for strategic analysis of policies contributing to D&FD. CANADA added assistance for countries with economies in transition.
On plantation forests, NEW ZEALAND, on behalf of AUSTRALIA, CHILE, CHINA, SOUTH AFRICA and UGANDA, noted the role of plantation forests as an important element of SFM. JAPAN added language supporting the conversion of plantation forests. NORWAY stressed the need for plantations to meet social, economic and environmental conditions, including conservation of biodiversity.
A second version of the draft negotiating text, containing annotations based on earlier textual comments, was discussed on 20 September. Countries only addressed paragraphs relating to proposals for action. Discussions on this programme element will continue at IPF-4.