Brussels, 23/02/2012 (Agence Europe) - The 12th special session of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Governing Council that has now ended in Nairobi (20-22 February) allowed European Environment Commissioner Janez Potocnik to invite all those taking part to do their utmost to ensure that the UN conference Rio+20 (20-22 June) results in a roadmap and specific targets for a green economy and in the launching of an institutional framework for a sustainable environment.
In his view, “the Rio+20 conference can help push forward the sustainable development agenda and contribute to making a real difference in the lives of millions. The outcome can translate into tangible and concrete benefits for all countries. Moving towards an inclusive green economy will be key for achieving success. But for this, we need the commitment of all parties and the will to move in the same direction.” On the sidelines of the meeting, Connie Hedegaard, Commissioner for Climate Action, took part in bilateral discussions, especially with the environment ministers of South Africa and Qatar (the current and future presidencies of the UNFCCC Conference of the Parties on Climate Change), representatives of the least developed countries, and with Mercedes Bresso, President of the Committee of the Regions, who was invited for the first time to attend UNEP ministerial consultations.
Bresso announced projects in favour of sustainable development adopted by many European towns and regions, and called on all local and regional authorities to be more actively involved in policy decisions relating to the environment and sustainable development, as well as in implementation of the programme at global level, while using to best advantage experience gained by the European green capitals. The Rio+20 conference is on the agenda of the European Council scheduled for 1-2 March. It will be up to the Environment Council of 9 March to make the EU's negotiation position for Rio+20 official. (AN/transl.jl)