ENB:05:80
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DRAFTING GROUP I
In 29(a) (integrated transport policies), the G-77/CHINA added references to international cooperation in transfer of ESTs and implementation of appropriate training programmes. In 29(c) (energy efficiency), delegates accepted G-77/CHINA text on adopting and promoting, as appropriate, measures to mitigate the negative environmental impacts of transportation, adding “including measures to improve efficiency in the transport sector.” An EU proposal for an international tax on aviation fuel was bracketed following support from SWITZERLAND and NORWAY and opposition from the G-77/CHINA, the US, AUSTRALIA, CANADA, RUSSIA and JAPAN. The EU and the US supported text on phasing out leaded gasoline within ten years. The G-77/CHINA said this must be accompanied by technical and economic assistance to developing countries. AUSTRALIA preferred not specifying a time-frame. Delegates accepted the Chair’s compromise formulation, noting CSD-3’s decision on the issue and calling for accelerated phase-out of leaded gasoline as soon as possible, preferably within ten years, and exploration of ways to provide economic or technical assistance to developing countries.
On 30 (atmosphere), the EU, supported by SWITZERLAND, said he would bracket his proposal, which includes specific emissions reduction targets, if challenged. The G-77/CHINA emphasized that the Berlin Mandate focuses on strengthening commitments of developed countries. SAMOA, for AOSIS, underscored the AOSIS protocol as consistent with the Berlin Mandate. The US proposed language noting that the CSD should recommend that the FCCC accelerate negotiations and recognize the global nature of the problem. The US, AUSTRALIA, JAPAN, CANADA, COLOMBIA, IRAN, RUSSIA, VENEZUELA, NIGERIA and SAUDI ARABIA objected to including specific negotiating positions in the text and cautioned against prejudging the COP-3 outcome. Delegates agreed to note the need for an international concerted effort and political will (AOSIS). The US noted that greenhouse gas emissions and concentrations continue to rise, even as scientific evidence confirms the severe risk of global climate change. IRAN proposed “suggests” rather than “confirms.” Delegates agreed that scientific evidence continues to diminish uncertainties and “points evermore strongly” to the risk. The Chair proposed bracketing proposals for the COP-3 outcome from the US (“satisfactory result”), JAPAN (agreement on quantified objectives for emission reductions and on policies and measures), the EU (15% reduction below 1990 levels by 2010) and AOSIS (20% reduction below 1990 levels by 2005). This “menu” of proposals will be considered at UNGASS. New paragraphs were added on international cooperation and observational networks (AOSIS).
On 31 (ozone), the EU proposed that the Montreal Protocol needs strengthening, especially as regards methyl bromide and earlier phase-out in developing countries. The G-77/CHINA said the CSD should not determine if a protocol needs to be strengthened, and prioritization of issues should be left to the COP.
On 32 (toxic chemicals), delegates noted the Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety, Inter-organizational Programme on the Sound Management of Chemicals, the “Responsible Care” initiative and the Code of Ethics on the International Trade in Chemicals. The EU, AUSTRALIA, ICELAND, CANADA and the US highlighted the recent UNEP Governing Council decision on chemicals and recommended using its exact language. CANADA suggested including the dates for negotiating PIC and POPs agreements. NORWAY noted the need to identify POPs beyond the twelve currently specified by UNEP. CANADA, supported by AUSTRALIA and the US, noted risk assessment and management regimes for inorganic chemicals. The G-77/CHINA called for international cooperation and support. Delegates requested the Chair to produce a consolidated text.
On 32bis (hazardous wastes), delegates agreed that hazardous waste and radioactive waste will be addressed in separate paragraphs. They also asked the Chair to produce a consolidated text on hazardous waste that highlights: the Basel Convention’s technical working group; liability and compensation; the principle of “proximity;” and waste recycling and disposal. On radioactive wastes, the Chair will develop a consolidated text based on, inter alia: the Bamako Convention; the IAEA; treatment of improperly stored existing waste; prior notification; and irradiated nuclear fuel.
On 33 (land and sustainable agriculture), delegates agreed to an integrated approach to “protecting and sustainably managing land and soil resources (EU), including identification of land degradation (AUSTRALIA) that involves all interested parties (G- 77/CHINA), in particular women (NORWAY).” The EU objected to the US suggestion to “promote” rather than “ensure” secure land tenure for farmers. The G-77/CHINA opposed NORWAY’s call for measures to improve food security for the urban poor. The EU, JAPAN and the REPUBLIC OF KOREA objected to an AUSTRALIAN proposal for continued WTO work to liberalize international trade and remove distortions to sustainable development in agriculture. The EU and the US opposed G-77/CHINA text on plans to provide complete access to basic requirements of agriculture for developing countries.
In 34 (desertification and drought), the EU, US and JAPAN objected to the G- 77/CHINA text on “new and additional financial resources” in reference to the global mechanism. G-77/CHINA and EU amendments regarding the global mechanism were bracketed as options. Delegates continued into the night.