WT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
18 June 2018  
(18-3736) Page: 1/38 
Committee on Trade and Environment    
 
 
ENVIRONMENTAL DATABASE FOR 2016  
NOTE BY THE SECRETAR IAT1 
1. The WTO Environmental Database (EDB)  is prepared in response to a recommendation in 
the 1996 Report of the Committee on Trade and Environment (WT/CTE/1)  for the Secretariat to 
compile and update annually all environment -related notifications to the WTO.2 
2. The EDB for 2016 covers information o n: (i) environment -related measures notified under  
WTO Agreements (Section 1); (ii) environment -related provisions of notified preferential or 
Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs) (Section 2); and (iii) environment -related measures mentioned 
in Trade Policy Re views (TPRs)  (Section  3).3  
3. Information in the EDB is drawn from 3,744  notifications  submitted by WTO Members and 
21 TPRs circulated  in 2016. The EDB is being circulated in two parts: this document, which 
contains a brief description and overall analysis  of the environment -related notifications submitted 
by WTO Members and TPRs in 2016; and the database exclusively circulated electronically under 
WT/CTE/EDB/16/ Add.1, which provides the underlying data, charts, and tables used for the 
analysis.  The EDB is available at the WTO website: https://www.wto.org/ edb. 
4. The electronic data in WT/CTE/EDB/ 16/Add.1 enables users to search through all EDB  
environment -related information according to sp ecific criteria, for instance by Member, Agreement, 
type of measure, product, or environmental objective.  The electronic file is divided into two main 
worksheets:  "Notifications", listing all the environment -related notifications; and "TPRs", providing 
the environment -related information mentioned in TPRs.  In addition, a third worksheet entitled 
"Summary" is included to allow users to retrieve pre -defined summary tables and graphs  for the 
period 199 7 – 2016. A detailed user's guide is included in Annex V to this document.  
 
 
_______________  
  
                                                
1 This document has been prepared under the Secretariat's own responsibility and is without prejudice 
to the positions of Members or to their rights and obligations under the WTO.  
2 Previous Environmental Databases have been circulated in the following documents: EDB 1996 in 
WT/CTE/W/46, EDB 1997 in WT/CTE/W/77, EDB 1998 in WT/CTE/W/118, EDB 1999 in WT/CTE/W/143, 
EDB 2000 in WT/CTE/W/195, EDB 2001 in WT/CTE/EDB/1, EDB 2002 in WT/CTE/EDB/2, EDB 2003 in 
WT/CTE/EDB/3, EDB 2004 in WT/CTE/EDB/4, EDB 2005 in WT/CTE/EDB/5, EDB 2006 in WT/CTE/EDB/6, 
EDB 2007 in WT/CTE/EDB/7, EDB 2008 in WT/CTE/EDB /8, EDB 2009 in WT/CTE/EDB/9 and Add.1, EDB 2010 
in WT/CTE/EDB/10 and Add.1, EDB 2011 in  WT/CTE/EDB/11 and Add.1, EDB 2012 in  WT/CTE/EDB/12 and 
Add.1 , EDB 201 3 in WT/CTE/EDB/1 3 and Add.1 , EDB 201 4 in WT/CTE/EDB/1 4 and Add.1 , and EDB 201 5 
in WT/CTE/EDB/1 5 and Add.1.  
3 The list of search words is contained in Annex I to this document. See also the following documents 
containing information on search words: WT/CTE/W/46, W T/CTE/W/78 and WT/CTE/W/102.  WT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
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TABLE OF CONTENTS  
1   WTO NOTIFICATIONS  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 4 
 Regulatory Measures  ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 9 1.1  
1.1.1    Quantitative Restrictions (QR)  ................................ ................................ ....................  9 
1.1.2    Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures (ILP)  ................................ ......................... 11 
1.1.3    Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT)  ................................ .......................... 13 
1.1.4    Agreement on the Application of Sanita ry and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS)  .................. 14 
 Support measures  ................................ ................................ ................................ ......16 1.2  
1.2.1    Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (SCM)  ................................ ........ 16 
1.2.2    Agreement on Agriculture  ................................ ................................ ......................... 18 
1.2.3    Government Procurement Agreement (GPA)  ................................ ............................... 20 
 Other Measures  ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 20 1.3  
1.3.1    General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS)  ................................ ......................... 20 
1.3.2    Agreement on Trade -related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIP S) ................... 20 
1.3.3    Agreement on Trade -Related Investment Measures (TRIMs)  ................................ ......... 21 
1.3.4    State Trading  ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 22 
1.3.5    Balance of Payments Provisions  ................................ ................................ ................. 22 
2   NOTIFICATIONS OF TRA DE AGREEMENTS  ................................ ................................ . 23 
 Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs)  ................................ ................................ ............... 23 2.1  
3   INFORMATION CONTAINE D IN TRADE POLICY RE VIEWS  ................................ ..........  24 
 TPRs of WTO Members in 2016  ................................ ................................ ..................... 25 3.1  
4   ANNEXES  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................  30 
Annex I - Environment -related Search Words  ................................ ................................ ........ 30 
Annex II - Number of Environment -related Notifications (1997 – 2016)  ................................ ....31 
Annex III - Number of Environment -related Notifications and Measures (2016)  ......................... 32 
Annex IV - Search Word Frequency in Notifications in 2016  ................................ ..................... 33 
Annex V - Electronic EDB User's Guide  ................................ ................................ .................. 34 
 
 WT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
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  TABLE OF CHARTS  
Chart 1.1 - Environment -related Notifications (1997 – 2016)  ................................ ....................  4 
Chart 1.2 - Environment -related Notifications by Members (2016)  ................................ ............  5 
Chart 1.3 - Environment -related  Notifications by Agreement (2016)  ................................ ..........  6 
Chart 1.4 - Types of Environment -related Objectives identified in the EDB (2016)  .......................  7 
Chart 1.5 - Type of Measures identified in the EDB (2016)  ................................ .......................  8 
Chart 1.6  - Type of Sectors identified in the EDB ( 2016)  ................................ ..........................  9 
Chart 1.7 - Environment -related QR Notifications (2007 – 2016)  ................................ ...............  9 
Chart 1.8 - Types of Environment -related Measures in QR Notifications (2016)  .......................... 10 
Chart 1.9 - Environment -related ILP Notifications (2007 – 2016)  ................................ ............. 11 
Chart 1.10 - Types of Environment -related Measures in ILP Notifications (2016)  ........................ 12 
Chart 1.11 - Environment -related TBT Notifications (2007 – 2016) ................................ ........... 13 
Chart 1.12 - Types of Environme nt-related TBT Notifications (2016)  ................................ ........ 14 
Chart 1.13 - Environment -related SPS Notifications (2007 – 2016)  ................................ .......... 15 
Chart 1.14 - Types of Environment -related SPS Notifications (2016)  ................................ ........ 15 
Chart 1.15 - Environment -related SCM Notifications (2007 – 2016)  ................................ .......... 16 
Chart 1.16 - Types of Environ ment-related Measures in SCM Notifications (2016)  ...................... 17 
Chart 1.17 - Environment -related Agriculture Notifications (2007 – 2016)  ................................ .18 
Chart 1.18 - Types of Environment -related Measures in Agriculture Notifications (2016)  ............. 19 
Chart 1.19 - Environment -related GPA Notifications (2007 – 2016)  ................................ .......... 20 
Chart 1.20 - Environment -related GATS Notifications (2007 – 2016)  ................................ ........ 20 
Chart 1.21 - Environment -related TRIPS Notifications (2007 – 2016)  ................................ .......21 
Chart 1.22 - Environment -related TRIMs Notifications (2007 – 2016)  ................................ .......21 
Chart 1.23 - Types of Envir onment -related Measures in TRIMs Notifications (2016)  .................... 22 
Chart 1.24 - Environment -related State Trading Notifications (2007 – 2016)  ............................. 22 
Chart 1.25 - Environment -related State Trading Notifications (2007 – 2016)  ............................. 23 
Chart 2.1  - Environment -related RTA Notifications (2007 – 2016)  ................................ ............ 23 
Chart 3.1 - Types of Environment -related Measures Mentioned in TPRs (2016)  .......................... 24 
Chart 3.2 - Sectors Covered by Environment -related Entries Mentioned in TPRs (2016)  .............. 25 
Chart 4.1 - Search function  ................................ ................................ ................................ .35 
 
  WT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
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  1  WTO NOTIFICATIONS  
1.1.  In 2016, of the 3,744 notifications submitted by WTO Members,4 15.4% or 575 notifications 
were environment -related. Since 1997, there has been a sustained increase in the number of 
environment -related notifications to the WTO. The share of environment -related notifications as a 
percentage of total notifications has also almost doubled over the same time period albeit wi th 
year-on-year fluctuations (see Chart 1.1).5 
Chart 1.1 - Environment -related Notifications (1997 – 2016 ) 
 
1.2.  As shown in Chart 1.2 below, environment -related notifications have been submitted by WTO 
Members fr om all regions of the world and at all levels of development. Seventy seven Members 
submitted notifications of environment -related measures, with the United  States (98 notifications), 
the European Union (80), Mexico (22), and China (18) notifying the highe st number of 
environment -related notifications in 2016.  
  
                                                
4 This number includes regular notifications, as well as adde nda, corrigenda and revisions, except in the 
case of TBT and SPS notifications where addenda  and corrigenda are not covered.  
5 The drop in total number and share of environment -related notifications from 2013 onwards can be 
partially explained by a change in methodology regarding environment -related SPS notifications. See 
section  1.1.4 for more detailed information.  
8.1%11.2%9.2%10.7%7.8%11.3%9.8% 10.8% 10.8%14.7%
13.5%13.4% 14.3% 13.2%15.8% 16.9% 17.5%14.6% 14.6% 15.4%165211
182245
186281
247 244311357 353395474453477569620
551
498575
1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Proportion of Environment-related Notifications Total Environment-related NotificationsWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
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  Chart 1.2 - Environment -related Notifications by Members (2016)  
 
7
3
5
2
16
2
1
1
8
2
2
15
11
18
3
9
1
9
3
4
8
80
1
4
3
1
4
4
3
7
6
5
10
1
11
3
11
2
8
1
3
4
22
8
5
2
2
3
3
2
4
10
2
13
1
8
1
3
8
6
1
4
15
3
5
3
3
10
6
5
98
2
1
4
2
9
2Afghanistan
Albania
Argentina
Armenia
Australia
Bahrain, Kingdom of
Barbados
Bolivia, Plurinational State of
Brazil
Brunei Darussalam
Burundi
Canada
Chile
China
Colombia
Costa Rica
Cuba
Czech Republic
Ecuador
Egypt
El Salvador
European Union
Fiji
France
Georgia
Ghana
Guatemala
Honduras
Hong Kong, China
India
Indonesia
Israel
Japan
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Korea, Republic of
Kuwait, the State of
Kyrgyz Republic
Macao, China
Malaysia
Mauritius
Mexico
New Zealand
Nicaragua
Norway
Oman
Pakistan
Panama
Paraguay
Peru
Philippines
Qatar
Russian Federation
Rwanda
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of
Senegal
Seychelles
Singapore
South Africa
Sweden
Switzerland
Chinese Taipei
Tajikistan
Thailand
Tunisia
Turkey
Uganda
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
United States of America
Uruguay
Vanuatu
Viet Nam
Yemen
Zambia
ZimbabweWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
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  1.3.  Chart 1.3 illustrates the incidence of environment -related notifications across  
WTO A greements.6 As in previous years, the TBT Agreement has the highest number of 
environment -related notifications (377 notifications), accounting for 66% of all WTO environment -
related notifications in 2016. A number of environment -related measures were also  notified under 
the SPS Agreement (62), the Agreement on Agriculture  (43), the Agreement on Import Licensing 
Procedures (39), and the SCM Agreement (31 notifications).7 
Chart 1.3 - Environment -related Notifica tions by Agreement ( 2016 ) 
 
1.4.  The environment -related notifications can be broadly grouped into two categories. The first 
consists of notifications that mention environmental considerations as the principal objective of the 
notified measure. The second category includes notifications t hat are not primarily aimed at 
environmental protection, but contain environment -related elements.  
1.5.  Furthermore, some notifications are made separately for each and every measure (such as 
most notifications under the TBT or SPS  Agreements) while others cov er various or multiple 
measures in a single notification (such as SCM or agriculture notifications). In the latter case, the 
various measures are broken down and reported separately in the database.  
1.6.  There were 1,176 separate environment -related measures in cluded in the EDB in 2016 from 
the 575 environment -related notifications in 2016. The TBT Agreement reported the highest 
number with 377  environment -related measures, followed by the Agreement on Agriculture (259), 
the SCM Agreement (190), and the Import L icensing Procedures Agreement with  
153 environment -related measures (see Annex III).  
                                                
6 In 2016, environment -related notifications were identified under the following WTO Agreements: 
Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT); Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary 
Measures (SPS); Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (SCM); Agreement on Agriculture; 
Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures (ILP); Understanding on the Interpretation of Article XVII of the 
GATT 1994 (State Trading Enterprises) ; the Understanding on the Interpretation of Article XXIV of the GATT 
1994 (Regional Trade Agreements  (RTAs) ); Agreement on T rade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property 
Rights (TRIPS);  the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS); Decision on Notification Procedures for 
Quantitative Restrictions (QR); Agreement on Trade -Related Investment Measures  (TRIMs); the Understandi ng 
on the Balance -of-Payments (BoP) Provisions of GATS 1994 ; and Agreement on Government Procurement 
(GPA) . 
7 No environment -related notifications were submitted under the following WTO Agreements: 
Agreement on Implementation of Article VI of the GATT 1994 (Anti -dumping); Agreement on Safeguards; 
Agreement on Implementation of Article VII of the GATT  1994 (Customs Valuation); Agreement on Textiles and 
Clothing ; Agreement on Pre -shipment Inspection ; Agreement on Rules of Origin ; the Informa tion Technology 
Agreement; the Trade Facilitation Agreement; and other notifications such as preferential trade arrangements 
notified to the Committee on Trade and Development  (CTD).  
TBT, 377, 66%
SPS, 62, 11%SCM, 31, 5%Agriculture, 43, 8%ILP, 39, 7%State Trading, 2, 0.3%RTAs, 3, 0.5%TRIPS, 1, 0.2%GATS, 1, 0.2%Quantitative 
Restrictions, 12, 2%TRIMS, 1, 0.2%BoP Provisions, 1, 
0.2%GPA, 2, 0%WT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
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  1.7.  The environment -related measures mentioned in the 2016 notifications addressed a range of 
environmental objectives (see Chart 1.4), including chemical, toxic and hazardou s substances 
management (19.2%), general environmental protection (14.5%), energy conservation and 
efficiency (11.4%), Multilateral Environmental Agreements  (MEAs ) implementation and compliance 
(11.0%), other environmental risks mitigation (10.6%), and was te management and recycling 
(10.3%).  
Chart 1.4 - Types of Environment -related Objectives8 identified in the EDB (2016 )9 
 
1.8.  In terms of types of measure (see Chart 1.5), technical regulation or specifications ac counted 
for the largest share of the total measures analysed in the 2016 notifications (35.6%), followed by 
grants and direct payments (16.5%), import licences (13.8%), and non -monetary support 
(13.4%). These numbers are not surprising since most of the en vironment -related measures 
identified in 2016 were notified under the TBT Agreement, the Agreement on Import Licensing 
Procedures,  the Agreement on Agriculture, and the SCM Agreement.  
                                                
8 See Annex V, Section III for a list of the harmonized categories by types of measures, objectives or 
sectors.  
9 Since more than one environmental objective can be mentioned in a notified measure, the total 
number may exceed 100 %. 
19.2%
14.5%
11.4%
11.0%
10.6%
10.3%
9.4%
9.2%
9.1%
7.4%
7.2%
6.4%
6.1%
5.9%
5.0%
4.7%
4.3%
4.2%
4.2%
3.2%
2.0%
1.4%
1.4%
0.8%226
171
134
129
125
121
111
108
107
87
85
75
72
69
59
55
50
49
49
38
23
16
16
9Chemical, toxic and hazardous substances management
General environmental protection
Energy conservation and efficiency
MEAs implementation and compliance
Other environmental risks mitigation
Waste management and recycling
Biodiversity and ecosystem
Sustainable agriculture management
Water management and conservation
Natural resources conservation
Alternative and renewable energy
Animal protection
Sustainable and environmentally friendly production
Air pollution reduction
Environmental protection from pests and diseases
Plant protection
Soil management and conservation
Climate change mitigation and adaptation
Ozone layer protection
Sustainable fisheries management
Sustainable forestry management
Environmental goods and services promotion
Afforestation/reforestation
Environmentally friendly consumptionType of ObjectiveWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
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  Chart 1.5 - Type of Measu res10 identified in the EDB (2016)11 
 
1.9.  In the sectoral analysis (Chart 1.6), the sector that was most frequently associated with 
environment -related measures was agriculture with 33.6% of all the identified measures, followed 
by manufacturing (25.5%), chemicals (19.1%), energy (11.1%), and services (7.9%). Sectors 
such as wildlife or waste are captured under the heading "Other" and accounted for 14.5% of the 
total measures. About two per cent of the measures did not specify any particular sector. Anothe r 
nearly two per cent of the measures applied to all products or economic activities.  
  
                                                
10 The harmonized categories "type of measures" and "type of sectors" were updated in EDB 2014. See 
Annex V, Section III for a list of the harmonized categories by types of measures, objectives or sectors.  
11 Since more than one environmental objective can be mentioned in a notified measure, the total 
number may e xceed 100 %. 
35.6%
16.5%
13.8%
13.4%
8.2%
7.3%
5.0%
4.8%
3.7%
1.6%
1.5%
1.3%
1.2%
1.1%
1.1%
1.1%
0.6%
0.4%
0.3%
0.3%
0.3%
0.2%
0.2%
0.2%
0.1%
0.1%
0.1%419
194
162
157
96
86
59
56
43
19
18
15
14
13
13
13
7
5
3
3
3
2
2
2
1
1
1Technical regulation or specifications
Grants and direct payments
Import licences
Non-monetary support
Ban/Prohibition
Conformity assessment procedures
Countervailing measure / investigation
Export licences
Not specified
Import quotas
Regulation affecting movement or transit
Risk assessment
Other environmental requirements
Investment measures
Loans and financing
Tax concessions
Quarantine requirements
Import tariffs
Environmental provisions in trade agreements
Other price and market based measures
Public procurement
Export quotas
Income or price support
Other measures
Intellectual property measures
Other support measures
Safeguard measure / investigationType of MeasureWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
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  Chart 1.6 - Type of Sectors12 identified in the EDB (2016)13 
 
1.10.   In 2016, the search words most commonly found in the environment -related measures 
notified continued to be "environment" (found in 44.3% of all environment -related notifications), 
"energy" (19.8%), "hazardous" (11.8%), "organic" (11.1%), and "bio" (10.3%). Other frequently 
mentioned search words include ''wa ste'' (9.4%), "emissions" (8.3%), "conserv(ation)" (8.2%), 
and "sustainable" (7.7%) (see Annex IV for the search word frequency in notifications).  
Regulatory Measures  1.1  
1.1.1   Quantitative Restrictions (QR)  
1.11.   In 2016, of the 16 notifications submitted by Members purs uant to the Council for Trade in 
Goods Decision on Notification Procedures for Quantitative Restrictions, 12 (75% of all QR 
notifications) were environment -related (see Chart 1.7). These 12 notifications referred to 
113 distinct environment -related measure s. 
Chart 1.7- Environment -related QR Notifications (200 7 – 2016 )14 
 
 
1.12.   As illustrated in Chart 1.8, the sectors covered by the notified environment -related QR 
measures included: chemicals (42%), agriculture (10%), fisheries (8%), manufacturing (6%), 
mining (5%), forestry (4%), and energy (3%). Other sectors including waste and wildlife were 
covered in 36% of the measures.  
                                                
12 The harmonized categories "type of measures" and "type of sectors" were updated in EDB 2014. See 
Annex V, Section III for a list of the harmonized categories by types of measures, objectives or sectors.  
13 Since more than one environmental obj ective can be mentioned in a notified measure, the total 
number may exceed 100 %. 
14 The most recent ten year period is covered in the chart. For the full EDB time series covering the 
period 199 7 to 201 6 see WT/CTE/EDB/1 6/Add.1.  
395
300
225
170
130
93
52
47
26
22
2033.6%
25.5%
19.1%
14.5%
11.1%
7.9%
4.4%
4.0%
2.2%
1.9%
1.7%Agriculture
Manufacturing
Chemicals
Other
Energy
Services
Fisheries
Forestry
Not specified
Mining
All products/economic activitiesType of Sector subject to Measure
50%
33%25%17%25%93%
50%68%73% 75%
34
21 213
515
812
Share of environment-related QR notifications Number of environment-related QR notificationsWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
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  Chart 1.8 - Types of Environment -related Measures in QR Notifications ( 2016 )15 
 
1.13.   The most frequently mentioned environment -related QR measures were ban/prohibition 
(65%), followed by export licences (29%), and import licences (19%).  
1.14.   In terms of objectives, multilateral environmental agreements (M EAs) implementation and 
compliance were cited in 50% of all the notified environment -related QR measures. These MEAs 
include  the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora  
(CITES ), the Montreal Protocol, the Basel Conve ntion, the Stockholm Convention, and the 
Rotterdam Convention. Animal protection was mentioned in 28% of all notified environment -
related QR measures. Other environmental objectives included chemical, toxic and hazardous 
substances management (27%), natura l resources conservation (19%), plant protection (15%), 
ozone layer protection (13%), and waste management and recycling (13%).  
1.15.   Members that submitted the most environment -related QR measures in their notification 
were: Russian Federation and the United St ates (with 15 measures each); and Mexico, Nicaragua, 
and Singapore with 14 measures each.  
  
                                                
15 Since more than one activity /measure/objective can be mentioned in a notified measure, the total 
number may exceed 100 %. See also the Summary section in WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1 for the full breakdown by 
sector, measure  or objective . 
1%1%2%3%5%6%13%13%15%19%27%28%50%1%1%2%3%19%29%65%3%4%5%6%8%10%36%42%
11236715151721313257112321337334679114147
Sustainable forestry managementOther environmental risks mitigationBiodiversity and ecosystemEnvironmental protection from pests and diseasesSustainable fisheries managementAir pollution reductionWaste management and recyclingOzone layer protectionPlant protectionNatural resources conservationChemical, toxic and hazardous substances managementAnimal protectionMEAs implementation and complianceExport quotasConformity assessment proceduresOther environmental requirementsImport quotasImport licencesExport licencesBan/ProhibitionEnergyForestryMiningManufacturingFisheriesAgricultureOtherChemicalsType of Objective Type of Measure Type of SectorWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
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  1.1.2   Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures (ILP)  
1.16.   In 2016, of the 96 notifications submitted by Members under the ILP Agreement, 39  (or 
41% of all ILP notifications) w ere environment -related (see Chart 1.9). These 39 notifications 
referred to 153 environment -related measures.  
Chart 1.9 - Environment -related ILP Notifications (200 7 – 2016 )16 
 
1.17.   As indicated in Chart 1.10, the sectors covered by the notified environment -related ILP 
measures included: chemicals such as ozone depleting substances and radioactive substances 
(35%), manufacturing (13%), agriculture (12%), and energy (8%). Other sectors such as waste 
and water were co vered in 39% of the measures while five per cent of the measures did not 
specify any particular sector or product.  
                                                
16 The most recent ten year period is covered in  the chart. For the full EDB time series covering the 
period 1997 to 2016 see WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1 . 
20%39%28% 29% 29%35%24%38%45% 41%132023212330
2338
3339
Share of environment-related ILP notifications Number of environment-related ILP notificationsWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
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  Chart 1.10 - Types of Environment -related Measures in ILP Notifications ( 2016 )17 
 
 
1.18.   On types of  measures, import and export licenses accounted for 90% and 15% of the 2016 
environment -related ILP measures respectively, while 12% of the notified measures referred to a 
ban or prohibition.  
1.19.   In terms of objectives, compliance with obligations under MEAs, such as CITES, the Basel 
Convention, the Rotterdam Convention and the Montreal Protocol, was stated as the 
environmental objective of 44% of the notified environment -related ILP  measures. Other 
environment -related objectives included chemical, toxic and ha zardous substances management 
(35%), plant protection (22%), waste management and recycling (20%), animal protection 
(20%), ozone layer protection  (19%), biodiversity and ecosystem (11%), and environmental 
protection from pests and diseases (10%).  
                                                
17 Since more than one activity /measure/objective can be mentioned in a notified measure, the total 
number may exceed 100 %. See also the Summary section in WT /CTE/EDB/16/Add.1 for the full breakdown by 
sector, measure  or objective . 
0.7%0.7%0.7%1.3%1.3%1.3%1.3%3%7%10%11%19%20%20%22%35%44%1%1%2%2%4%6%7%8%8%12%15%90%0.7%1.3%3%3%4%5%8%12%13%35%39%
1112222411161729303133536811336911121318231244681219205459
Sustainable and environmentally friendly productionSustainable agriculture managementAfforestation/reforestationWater management and conservationSoil management and conservationClimate change mitigation and adaptationAir pollution reductionEnergy conservation and efficiencyGeneral environmental protectionEnvironmental protection from pests and diseasesBiodiversity and ecosystemOzone layer protectionAnimal protectionWaste management and recyclingPlant protectionChemical, toxic and hazardous substances managementMEAs implementation and complianceNot specifiedImport tariffsQuarantine requirementsConformity assessment proceduresRisk assessmentOther environmental requirementsRegulation affecting movement or transitImport quotasTechnical regulation or specificationsBan/ProhibitionExport licencesImport licencesServicesAll products/economic activitiesMiningForestryFisheriesNot specifiedEnergyAgricultureManufacturingChemicalsOtherType of Objective Type of Measure Type of SectorWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
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  1.20.   Members that submitted the most environment -related ILP measures were: the Philippines 
(27 measures in two notifications), Malaysia (16 measures in two notifications),  
Cuba (15 measures in one notification), Australia (14 measures in one notification), and Singap ore 
(10 measures in two notifications).  
1.1.3   Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT)  
1.21.   In 2016, of the 1,686 regular TBT notifications submitted by Members, 377 (22%)18 were 
environment -related (see Chart 1.11). The TBT Agreement continues to be the agreeme nt under 
which most environment -related notifications are submitted (on average 201 environment -related 
TBT notifications have been submitted annually over the period 1997 -2016).  
Chart 1.11 - Environment -related TBT Notifications (200 7 – 2016 )19 
 
 
1.22.   As indicated in Chart 1.12, the sectors most frequently associated with the 2016 
environment -related TBT notifications were manufacturing mentioned in 49% of the notifications. 
Other sectors covered i n the environment -related notifications included chemicals (31%), energy 
(10%), and agriculture (8%).  
                                                
18 This number excludes adde nda and corrigenda.  
19 The most recent ten year period is covered in the chart. For the full EDB time series covering the 
period 1997 to 2016 see WT/CTE/EDB /16/Add.1 . 
16% 19% 18% 19% 22% 23% 24% 23% 23% 22%168238274 270 268353384
358
305377
Share of environment-related TBT notifications Number of environment-related TBT notificationsWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 14 - 
 
  Chart 1.12 - Types of Environment -related TBT Notifications ( 2016 )20 
 
 
1.23.   On types of measures, the 2016 envir onment -related TBT measures were either technical 
regulation or specifications (95%) or conformity assessment procedures (18%).  
1.24.   In terms of objectives, chemical, toxic and hazardous substances management was the 
most frequent environmental objective mentio ned in 32% of the environment -related TBT 
notifications. Other environmental objectives included other environmental risks mitigation (26%), 
energy conservation and efficiency (20%), general environmental protection (17%), air pollution 
reduction (10%), wa ste management and recycling (9%), climate change mitigation  and 
adaptation (7%), sustainable and environmentally friendly production (6%), and biodiversity and 
ecosystem (6%).  
1.25.   In 2016, Members that submitted the most environment -related TBT notifications were the 
United States (89), the European Union (67), Mexico (17), Chinese Taipei (13), China (12), and 
Uganda (10).  
1.1.4   Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS)  
1.26.   In 2016, of the 1,037 regular SPS notifications21, 62 (6%) were en vironment -related (see 
Chart 1.13).22  
                                                
20 Since more than one activity /measure/objective can be mentioned in a notified measure, the total 
number may exceed 100 %. See also the Summary section in WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1 for the full breakdown by 
sector, measure  or objective . 
21 This number excludes addenda and corrigenda.  
22 The share of environment -related SPS notifications dropped  in 2014 compared to previous years  due 
to a modified approach used for identifying environment -related SPS notifications.  From 2014 onwards, only 
0.5%0.5%1%1%1%1%2%2%3%5%5%6%6%7%9%10%17%20%26%32%18%95%0.3%2%2%2%2%8%8%10%31%49%
2244556811171721242534386474971196835916689313137116185
MEAs implementation and complianceAnimal protectionSustainable forestry managementSustainable fisheries managementSoil management and conservationOzone layer protectionNatural resources conservationEnvironmentally friendly consumptionWater management and conservationSustainable agriculture managementAlternative and renewable energyBiodiversity and ecosystemSustainable and environmentally friendly productionClimate change mitigation and adaptationWaste management and recyclingAir pollution reductionGeneral environmental protectionEnergy conservation and efficiencyOther environmental risks mitigationChemical, toxic and hazardous substances managementConformity assessment proceduresTechnical regulation or specificationsNot specifiedForestryFisheriesAll products/economic activitiesServicesOtherAgricultureEnergyChemicalsManufacturingType of ObjectiveType
of
Measu
re Type of SectorWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 15 - 
 
  Chart 1.13 - Environment -related SPS Notifications  (200 7 – 2016 ) 23 
 
1.27.   As illustrated in Chart 1.14, the sectors that were most frequently associated with the 2016 
environment -related SPS  notifications were agriculture covered in 68% of the notifications, 
followed by manufacturing (15%), other sectors such as those relating to waste and wildlife 
(15%), fisheries (10%), chemicals (8%), and forestry (6%).  
Chart 1.14 - Types of Environment -related SPS Notifications ( 2016 )24 
 
 
1.28.   On types of measures, technical regulation or specifications accounted for 66% of the 
environment -related SPS notifications. Other SPS measures included conformity assessment 
procedures (23%), regulation affecting movement or transit (11%), and risk assessment (11%).  
                                                                                                                                                  
the environment -related content in the "description" of the SPS notification is considered for inclusion in the 
EDB. 
23 The most recent ten year period is covered in the chart. For the full EDB time series covering the 
period 1997 to 2016 see WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1 . 
24 Since more than one activity /measure/objective can be mentioned in a notified measure, the total 
number may exceed 100 %. See also the Summary section in WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1 for the full breakdown by 
sector, measure  or objective . 
12%
9%11%8% 8% 11% 12% 4% 4% 6%98
84 81 837691107
44 4762
Share of environment-related SPS notifications Number of environment-related SPS notifications
2%2%5%6%8%10%15%16%19%23%26%32%40%5%6%6%6%11%11%23%66%6%8%10%15%15%68%
113456910121416202534447714414569942
Sustainable forestry managementMEAs implementation and complianceAnimal protectionPlant protectionSustainable fisheries managementGeneral environmental protectionWaste management and recyclingChemical, toxic and hazardous substances managementOther environmental risks mitigationSustainable agriculture managementSustainable and environmentally friendly productionEnvironmental protection from pests and diseasesBiodiversity and ecosystemImport licencesQuarantine requirementsNot specifiedBan/ProhibitionRisk assessmentRegulation affecting movement or transitConformity assessment proceduresTechnical regulation or specificationsForestryChemicalsFisheriesOtherManufacturingAgricultureType of Objective Type of Measure Type of SectorWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 16 - 
 
  1.29.   In terms of objectives, biodiversity and ecosystem was the most frequent environmental 
objective mentioned in the environment -relate d SPS notifications (40%), followed by 
environmental protection from pests and diseases (32%), sustainable and environmentally friendly 
production (26%), sustainable agriculture management (23%), other environmental risks 
mitigation (19%), chemical, toxic and hazardous substances management (16%), waste 
management and recycling (15%), and general environmental protection (10%).  
1.30.   In 2016, Members that submitted the most environment -related SPS notifications were: 
Australia (8); the Philippines (7); Costa Rica  (4), New Zealand (4) and the United States (3).  
Support measures  1.2  
1.2.1   Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (SCM)  
1.31.   In 2016, of the 127 notifications submitted by Members under the SCM Agreement,  
31 (24%) were environment -related (see Chart 1.15). Over the period 1997 -2016, the number of 
environment -related SCM notifications ranged from five to 51 notifications, with an average of 
around 28 notifications per year.  25 
Chart 1.15 - Environment -related SCM Notifications (200 7 – 2016 )26  
 
1.32.   As illustrated in Chart 1.16, 42% of the measures referred in the 2016 environment -related 
SCM notifications specifically concerned the manufacturing sector. Other specific activities 
identified included energy (34%), agricu lture (20%), other sectors such as wildlife or waste (9%), 
and fisheries (9%).  
1.33.   As in previous years, the majority of environment -related SCM measures notified in 2016 
took the form of grants and direct payments (60% of all the identified measures), followe d by 
countervailing measure/ investigation (31%), other forms of support included tax 
concessions  (7%), and loans and financing (4%).  
1.34.   In terms of objectives, the most frequently mentioned environmental objectives in the 2016 
environment -related SCM measure s were the promotion of alternative and renewable energy 
(34%), energy conservation and efficiency (26%), general environmental protection (18%), water 
management and conservation (13%), sustainable agriculture management (12%), waste 
management and recycl ing (12%), biodiversity and ecosystem (11%), and air pollution reduction 
(11%).  
  
                                                
25 Since 2001, WTO Members n otify SCM measures once every two years, which explains the year -on-
year variation in environment -related SCM notifications. See G/SCM/M/30 , para. 6 and G/SCM/M/46, para. 43.  
26 The most recent ten year period is covered in the chart. For the full EDB time series covering the 
period 1997 to 2016 see WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1 . 
20%5%22%
7%34%
16%30%26%39%
24%33
540
847
1748
2951
31
Share of environment-related SCM notifications Number of environment-related SCM notificationsWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 17 - 
 
  1.35.   Members that submitted the most environment -related SCM measures were: the European 
Union (95 measures in 10 notifications); Australia (27 measures in three notifications); t he United 
States (19 measures in two notifications); China (16 measures in two notifications); and Canada 
(12 measures in two notifications).  
Chart 1.16 - Types of Environment -related Measures in SCM Notificat ions ( 2016 )27 
 
  
                                                
27 Since more than one activity /measure/objective can be mentioned in a notified measure, the total 
number may exceed 100 %. See also the Summary section in WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1 for the full bre akdown by 
activity, measure  or objective . 
0.5%1%2%2%4%4%5%6%6%8%8%11%11%12%12%13%18%26%34%0.5%0.5%0.5%1%1%1%2%4%7%31%60%2%3%4%5%5%9%9%20%34%42%
12447891111161620212223253449641112223713591143589101718386579
Soil management and conservationAfforestation/reforestationChemical, toxic and hazardous substances managementAnimal protectionOther environmental risks mitigationSustainable forestry managementNatural resources conservationEnvironmental goods and services promotionClimate change mitigation and adaptationSustainable fisheries managementSustainable and environmentally friendly productionAir pollution reductionBiodiversity and ecosystemWaste management and recyclingSustainable agriculture managementWater management and conservationGeneral environmental protectionEnergy conservation and efficiencyAlternative and renewable energyRisk assessmentPublic procurementOther support measuresOther price and market based measuresNot specifiedIncome or price supportNon-monetary supportLoans and financingTax concessionsCountervailing measure / investigationGrants and direct paymentsChemicalsAll products/economic activitiesServicesForestryNot specifiedFisheriesOtherAgricultureEnergyManufacturingType of Objective Type of Measure Type of SectorWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 18 - 
 
  1.2.2   Agreement on Agriculture  
1.36.   In 2016, of the 208 notifications submitted by Members under the Agreement on 
Agriculture, 43 (21%) were environment -related and covered 259 environment -related measures 
(see Chart 1.17). Over the period 1997 -2016,  the number of environment -related agriculture 
notifications varied, ranging from 20 to 49 notifications, with an average of around 34 notifications 
per year.  
Chart 1.17 - Environment -related Agriculture Notif ications (200 7 – 2016 )28 
 
1.37.   As indicated in Chart 1.18, 98% of all environment -related agriculture measures pertained 
directly to the agriculture sector. There were environment -related agriculture measures, in which 
services, forestry, fisheries, and energy activities were also mentioned.  
                                                
28 The most recent ten year period is covered in the chart. For the full EDB time series covering the 
period 1997 to 2016 see WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1 . 
29%
18% 17%25% 24% 22% 25%20% 22% 21%34
243649
4445
3442
3243
Share of environment-related Agriculture notifications Number of environment-related Agriculture notificationsWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 19 - 
 
  Chart 1.18 - Types of Environment -related Measures in Agriculture Notifications 
(2016 )29  
 
 
1.38.   On types of measures, the environment -related agriculture measures included mainly non-
monetary domestic support measures, such as training, advisory services or research programs 
(59%), grants and direct payments (31%), as well as loans and financing (2%). Unspecified 
measures accounted for 14% of the environment -related agriculture mea sures notified.  
1.39.   In terms of objectives, water management and conservation was mentioned in 27% of all 
environment -related measures notified under the Agreement on Agriculture in 2016. Other 
objectives included sustainable agriculture management (20%), natu ral resources conservation 
(18%), general environmental protection (17%), soil management and conservation (15%), and 
biodiversity and ecosystem (10%).  
1.40.    Members that submitted the most environment -related agricultural measures were: Peru 
(56 measures in tw o notifications); Australia (43 measures in four notifications);  
Canada (21 measures in two notifications); Norway (16 measures in two notifications); and 
Argentina (15 measures in two notifications).  
                                                
29 Since more than one activity /measure/objective can be mentioned in  a notified measure, the total 
number may exceed 100 %. See also the Summary section in WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1 for the full breakdown by 
activity, measure  or objective . 
0.8%0.8%1%1%2%2%2%2%3%3%4%5%6%8%10%15%17%18%20%27%1.5%1.5%2%14%31%59%1%2%3%5%8%29%98%
2233455679111315202539454753694463680154257122074254
Waste management and recyclingAir pollution reductionAnimal protectionAlternative and renewable energyEnvironmental goods and services promotionEnergy conservation and efficiencyChemical, toxic and hazardous substances managementOther environmental risks mitigationSustainable fisheries managementSustainable forestry managementClimate change mitigation and adaptationAfforestation/reforestationSustainable and environmentally friendly productionEnvironmental protection from pests and diseasesBiodiversity and ecosystemSoil management and conservationGeneral environmental protectionNatural resources conservationSustainable agriculture managementWater management and conservationImport tariffsImport quotasLoans and financingNot specifiedGrants and direct paymentsNon-monetary supportEnergyNot specifiedFisheriesOtherForestryServicesAgricultureType of Objective Type of Measure Type of SectorWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 20 - 
 
  1.2.3   Government Procurement Agreement (GPA)  
1.41.   In 2016, of the  66 notifications submitted under the plurilateral Agreement on Government 
Procurement, two notifications (by Japan and Ukraine) were environment -related (see Chart 1.19). 
The objectives of these notifications related to environmental goods and services pr omotion and 
general environmental protection, respectively.  
Chart 1.19 - Environment -related GPA Notifications (200 7 – 2016 )30 
 
 
Other Measures  1.3  
1.3.1   General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS)  
1.42.   In 2016, of the 21 notifications submitted by Members pursuant to the GATS, one notified 
by the European Union was environment -related (see Chart 1.20). The notified environment -
related measure related to the promotion of projects on alternative and renewable energy as well 
as energy conservation and efficiency.  
Chart 1.20 - Environment -related GATS Notifications (200 7 – 2016 )31 
 
1.3.2   Agreement on Trade -related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS)  
1.43.   In 2016, of the 142 notifi cations submitted by Members under Article 63.2 of the TRIPS 
Agreement, only one contained environment -related provisions (see Chart 1.21). The 
environment -related provisions in this notification referred to the protection of the environment 
from improper destruction of infringing goods.  
                                                
30 The most recent ten year period is covered in the chart. For the full EDB time series cov ering the 
period 1997 to 2016 see WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1 . 
31 The most recent ten year period is covered in the chart. For the full EDB time series covering the 
period 1997 to 2016 see WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1 . 
38%57%62%
9% 13%8% 13%19% 10%3%3818
321254
2
Share of environment-related GPA notifications Number of environment-related GPA notifications
4%3% 5% 2% 4%11%
5% 0 0 02
13
137
1
Share of environment-related GATS notifications Number of environment-related GATS notificationsWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 21 - 
 
  Chart 1.21 - Environment -related TRIPS Notifications (200 7 – 2016 )32 
 
1.3.3   Agreement on Trade -Related Investment Measures (TRIMs)  
1.44.   In 2016, of the four notifications submitted under the TRIMs Agreement, one submitted by 
Kazakhstan contained 12 environment -related measures. This notification was the first TRIMs 
notification to be included in the EDB (see Chart 1.22).  
Chart 1.22 - Environment -related TRI Ms Notifications (200 7 – 2016 )33 
 
1.45.   Chart 1.23 illustrates the classification of the 12 environment -related measures identified in 
the notification. These measures pertained to the mining sector (100%) and the energy sector 
(83%). All were investment measures, but some in addition referred to technical regulation or 
specifications (50%) and other environmental requirements (25%). The environment -related 
objectives identified included waste management and recycling (58%), general environ mental 
protection (50%), chemical, toxic and hazardous substances management (33%), and natural 
resources conservation (33%).  
                                                
32 The most recent ten year period is covered in the chart. For the full EDB time series covering the 
period 1997 to 2016 see WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1 . 
33 The most recent ten year period is covered in the chart. For the full EDB time series covering the 
period 1997 to 2016 see WT/CTE/ EDB/16/Add.1 . 
4%5% 2% 8%14%3% 4% 5%1% 1%37
289
49
5
1 1
Share of environment-related TRIPS notifications Number of environment-related TRIPS notifications
25%
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 01
Share of environment-related TRIMS notifications Number of environment-related TRIMS notificationsWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 22 - 
 
  Chart 1.23 - Types of Environment -related Measures in TRIMs  Notifications ( 2016 )34  
 
 
1.3.4   State Trading  
1.46.   In 2016, of the 41 notifications submitted under the Understanding on the Interpretation of 
Article XVII of the GATT 1994 (State Trading Enterprises), two by Afghanistan and Kazakhstan 
were environment -related (see Chart 1.24). These notifications referred to tariff rates 
differentiation to stimulate energy saving behaviour and export quotas and state control to 
preserve sturgeon species in compliance with the CITES, respectively.  
Chart 1.24 - Environment -related State Trading Notifications (200 7 – 2016 )35 
 
1.3.5   Balance of Payments Provisions  
1.47.   In 1997, there was one environment -related notification submitted under the Understanding 
on the Balance -of-payments Provisions of the GATT 1994. Since then, there had been no such 
notifications identified until 2016, when one out of the four BoP Provision s notifications was 
environment -related (see Chart 1.25). This notification referred to the modification of Ecuador's 
                                                
34 Since more than one activity /measure/objective can be mentioned in a notified measure, the total 
number may exceed 100 %. See also the Summary section in WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1 for the full breakdown by 
activity, measure  or objective . 
35 The mos t recent ten year period is covered in the chart. For the full EDB time series covering the 
period 1997 to 2016 see WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1 . 
8%17%25%33%33%50%58%8%8%8%25%50%100%83%100%
123446711136121012
Plant protectionOther environmental risks mitigationSoil management and conservationNatural resources conservationChemical, toxic and hazardous substances managementGeneral environmental protectionWaste management and recyclingRisk assessmentOther measuresBan/ProhibitionOther environmental requirementsTechnical regulation or specificationsInvestment measuresEnergyMiningType of Objective Type of MeasureType of
Sector
4%5%10%
4%7% 5% 01
04
04
02
12
Share of environment-related State Trading notifications Number of environment-related State Trading notificationsWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 23 - 
 
  safeguard measure to address the country's needs to protect persons, communities and nature 
against the adverse effects of natural or manm ade disasters through risk prevention, disaster 
mitigation, restoration and the improvement of social, economic and environmental conditions.  
Chart 1.25 - Environment -related State Trading Notifications ( 2007  – 2016 )36 
 
 
 
2  NOTIFICATIONS OF TRA DE AGREEMENTS  
Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs)  2.1  
2.1.  In 2016, of the 18 RTA notifications submitted by Members pursuant to the Understanding on 
the Interpretation of Article  XXIV of the GATT 1994, three (17%) were environment -related (see 
Chart 2.1). In particular, these notifications related to the RTAs' inclusion of environmental 
provision.37 
2.2.  The three notifications referred to the Bilateral Trade Agreements between the Republic of 
Korea and China, Colombia and New Zealand, respe ctively. These Agreements established 
cooperation on trade in goods and services with the inclusion of provisions on environmental 
issues related to all products/economic activities.  
Chart 2.1 - Environment -related RTA Notifications (200 7 – 2016 )38 
 
 
 
                                                
36 The most recent ten year period is covered in the chart. For the full EDB time series covering the 
period 1997 to 201 6 see WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1 . 
37 The statistics only reflect information captured through keywords  in the text of the notification.  For a 
deeper analysis capturing the texts of the RTAs notified to the GATT/WTO since 1957, see MONTEIRO, Jose, 
“Typology of Envi ronment -Related Provisions in Regional Trade Agreements”, WTO ERSD working paper, 2016  
(available at https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/reser_e/ersd201613_e.htm ).  
38 The most recent ten year period is covered in the chart. For the full EDB time series covering the 
period 1997 to 2016 see WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1 . 
25%
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 01
Share of environment-related Balance of Payments Provisions notifications
Number of environment-related Balance of Payments Provisions notifications
11% 13% 15% 9%5% 5%21%25%
17%
04 4 4
3
2 24
3 3
Share of environment-related RTA notifications Number of environment-related RTA notificationsWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 24 - 
 
  3  INFORMATION CONTAINE D IN TRADE POLICY RE VIEWS  
3.1.  The EDB covers information on the environment -related policies, measures or programmes 
contained in the Secretariat and Government Trade Policy Review (TPR) reports. Environment -
related information is usually found in the following sections of the TPRs: trade policy framework; 
trade policies and practices by measure; and trade policies by selected sector.  
3.2.  Twenty one TPRs were circulated in 2016. There were 1148 entries  with references to 
environment -related policies, measures or sectors in these TPRs.39 The highest number of 
environment -related entries were found in the TPRs  of the United States (147), followed by the 
Republic of Korea (90), China (76), Maldives (67), an d Tunisia (65). Examples of environment -
related entries identified in the TPRs are presented in Section 3.1 below.  
3.3.  Chart 3.1 provides a detailed breakdown of the types of environment -related measures 
reported in the TPRs. Environment -related measures most frequently mentioned in the TPRs of 
2016 were tax concessions (13%), technical regulation or specifications (10.1%), ban/prohibition 
(9.1%), grants and direct payments (9.1%), and import licences (7.6%).  
Chart 3.1 - Type s of Environment -related Measures Mentioned in TPRs (2016 ) 
 
  
                                                
39 The number of environment -related TPR entries corresponds to the number of times particular 
environment -related policies, measures or programmes are mentioned in the Secretariat or Government TPR 
Reports.  
Ban/Prohibition, 75, 9.1%
Conformity assessment 
procedures, 21, 2.5%
Countervailing measure / 
investigation, 2, 0.2%
Export licences, 35, 4.2%
Export quotas, 1, 0.1%
Export tariffs, 2, 0.2%
Grants and direct 
payments, 75, 9.1%
Import licences, 63, 7.6%
Import quotas, 4, 0.5%
Import tariffs, 5, 0.6%
Income or price support, 
12, 1.5%
Intellectual property 
measures, 10, 1.2%
Internal taxes, 33, 4.0%
Investment measures, 17, 
2.1%
Loans and financing, 37, 
4.5%Non-monetary support, 
39, 4.7%Not specified, 3, 0.4%Other environmental 
requirements, 57, 6.9%Other measures, 37, 4.5%Other price and market 
based measures, 24, 2.9%Other support measures, 
35, 4.2%Public procurement, 11, 
1.3%Quarantine requirements, 
5, 0.6%Regulation affecting 
movement or transit, 5, 
0.6%Risk assessment, 25, 
3.0%Services requirements, 1, 
0.1%Tax concessions, 107, 
13.0%Technical regulation or 
specifications, 83, 10.1%WT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 25 - 
 
  3.4.  Regarding environment -related trade policies by sector, the most frequently mentioned 
sectors in the TPRs were energy (28%), followed by agriculture (14%), manufacturing (9%), 
services (9%), and fisheries (9%) (see Chart 3.2).  
Chart 3.2 - Sectors Covered by Environment -related Entrie s Mentioned in TPRs ( 2016 ) 
 
 
 
TPRs of WTO Members in 2016  3.1  
3.5.  Twenty one TPRs were circulated in 2016, namely (in alphabetical order): Albania; China; 
Democratic Republic of  the Congo; El Salvador; Fiji; Guatemala; Honduras; Republic of Korea; 
Malawi; Maldives; Russian Federation; Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Singapore; Solomon Islands; 
Sri Lanka; Tunisia; Turk ey; Ukraine; United Arab Emirates; United States; and Zambia.  
3.6.  The environment -related TPR entries are reported under the headings: trade policy 
framework; trade policies and practices by measure; and trade policies by sector. In general, trade 
policy frame work entries include information on government environmental policies, plans, 
programmes and investment policies. Environment -related trade policies and practices by measure 
include environmental requirements and QRs (e.g.  technical regulation or specifica tions, 
conformity assessment procedures, import/export licences, bans and prohibitions); price and 
market based measures (e.g. import/export tariffs, import/export quotas, and internal taxes); and 
support measures (e.g. grants and direct payments, loans an d financing, tax concessions, non -
monetary support measures, income or price support, and public procurement). The environment -
related sectors mentioned in the 2016 TPRs include agriculture, energy, chemicals, fisheries, 
forestry, manufacturing, mining, an d services.  
3.7.  The TPR of Albania40 includes 40 environment -related entries. Examples of the policy 
framework entries in the TPR include: the emphasis on the need to undertake deep structural 
reforms to boost economic growth, safeguard macroeconomic stability and ensure sustainable 
development; and concessions/ public –private partnerships being awarded for the administration 
of waste water, cleaning of canals and dams, waste management, and rehabilitation of land and 
forests. On environment -related measures, th e TPR entries include import licensing requirements 
on waste, plant protection products, certain fish and fish products, and wild species of flora and 
fauna listed in the Appendices of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of 
Wild Fau na and Flora (CITES). In the sectoral analysis, the TPR entries cover, inter alia: tourism 
being a key channel for Albania to achieve sustainable growth while safeguarding the 
environment; the mining laws providing for control and rehabilitation of the env ironment; and 
Albania's support for renewable energy.  
3.8.  The TPR of China41 includes 76 environment -related entries. Examples of the policy 
framework entries in the TPR include: the Chinese government's focus on promoting the 
development of emerging industries  such as energy conservation and environment protection; and 
the country's revised Investment Catalogue aiming at channelling foreign direct investment (FDI) 
                                                
40 WT/TPR/G/337 and WT/TPR/S/337/Rev.1 . 
41 WT/TPR/G/342 and WT/TPR/S/342/Rev.1 . 
Agriculture, 148, 14%
All products/economic 
activities, 1, 0.1%
Chemicals, 58, 6%
Energy, 281, 28%
Fisheries, 89, 9%Forestry, 45, 4%Manufacturing, 94, 9%Mining, 15, 1%Not specified, 90, 9%Other, 109, 11%Services, 91, 9%WT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 26 - 
 
  towards the use of greener technologies. On environment -related measures, the TPR entries cover, 
inter alia: consumption tax levied on products that are harmful to the environment; prohibited 
items related to solid waste listed in the Catalogue of Prohibited Imports for Solid Waste; and the 
export licensing requirement on substances that deplete the oz one layer. In the sectoral analysis, 
the TPR entries include the government's support for small farmland water conservancy facilities 
and national key construction projects on water and soil conservation.  
3.9.  The TPR of the Democratic Republic of  the Congo42 includes 51 environment -related entries. 
Examples of the policy framework entries in the TPR include: the National Programme on the 
Environment, Forestry, Water Resources and Biodiversity; and the requirement for private 
investors to comply with environmenta l protection and nature conservation regulations. On 
environment -related measures, the TPR entries cover, inter alia: permits for import, export and 
re-export of animals, wildlife products and by -products; and requirements for packaging to be 
reusable, rec yclable and/or biodegradable. In the sectoral analysis, TPR entries include: the 
country's commitment to the protection of the environment and sustainable management of 
forests and natural resources; and the new law to introduce "responsible" fishing that respects the 
ecosystem.  
3.10.   The TPR of El Salvador43 includes 39 environment -related entries. Examples of the policy 
framework entries in the TPR include: El Salvador's Five Year Development Plan 2014 -2019 giving 
priority to renewable and sustainable sources an d developing sustainable tourism; and the 
country's membership in the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), whose objectives include 
preserving the environmental integrity of the Caribbean Sea and promoting the sustainable 
development of the region. On en vironment -related measures, TPR entries cover, inter alia: 
co-financing provided for cleaner production and energy efficiency; and the national intellectual 
property policy issued in 2014 to protect biodiversity. In the sectoral analysis, TPR entries inclu de: 
establishing the basis for the adaptation of crop farming, livestock farming, fishing and 
aquaculture to climate change; and the contribution of renewable energy (e.g. from hydroelectric, 
geothermal, and biomass sources) to the country's energy mix.  
3.11.   The TPR of Fiji44 includes 58 environment -related entries. Examples of the policy framework 
entries in the TPR include: Fiji's participation in the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic 
Relations (PACER) Plus negotiations, with discussions on the environment a nd renewable energy; 
and the country's legislation including the Ozone Depleting Substances Act 1998 and the 
Endangered and Protected Species Act 2002. On environment -related measures, TPR entries 
cover, inter alia: loans at concessional interest rates for  renewable energy businesses; and tax and 
customs incentives for renewable energy plant and machineries, biofuel production, and renewable 
energy goods. In the sectoral analysis, TPR entries include: Fiji's proactive domestic, sub -regional 
and regional mea sures to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing and to ensure 
sustainability of fisheries resources; and the Fijian Tourism Development Plan 2007 -2016, which 
sets the framework for the sustainable development of the tourism sector.  
3.12.   The TP R of Guatemala45 includes 41 environment -related entries. Examples of the policy 
framework entries in the TPR include: Guatemala being designated a megadiverse country in 2010 
at the Tenth Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity;  and the National 
Competitiveness Agenda (2012 -2021) that focuses on the sustainable management of natural 
resources. On environment -related measures, TPR entries cover, inter alia: standards and 
technical regulations concerning the environment, climate ch ange and energy efficiency; and 
import licensing requirements for animals and seafood products included in the CITES. In the 
sectoral analysis, TPR entries include: Guatemala's participation in the Central American 
Agricultural Policy (PACA) 2008 -2017, to,  among other objectives, contribute to the development 
of sustainable agriculture in the region; and the Guatemalan Sustainable Tourism Master Plan 
2015-2025 aimed at developing tourism in a sustainable way at the environmental, economic, 
social and cultur al levels.  
                                                
42 WT/TPR/G/339 and WT/TPR/S/339 . 
43 WT/TPR/G/344 and WT/TPR/S/344/Rev.1 . 
44 WT/TPR/G/330 and WT/T PR/S/330/Rev.1 . 
45 WT/TPR/G/348 and WT/TPR/S/348 . WT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 27 - 
 
  3.13.   The TPR of Honduras46 includes 53 environment -related entries. Examples of the policy 
framework entries in the TPR include: the Canada -Honduras Free Trade Agreement that also 
includes cooperation commitments relating to the environment. On enviro nment -related measures, 
TPR entries cover, inter alia: eco -tax on used vehicles; Employment and Economic Development 
Zones for the development of renewable energy areas; and environmental impact being 
considered when evaluating bids for public procurement.  In the sectoral analysis, TPR entries 
include: the implementation of an integrated tourism model which takes the environment into 
account while consolidating existing tourism products and designing new ones; and "Green Box" 
measures that strengthen local management of natural resources and reduce the environmental 
vulnerability of poor rural households.  
3.14.   The TPR of the Republic of Korea47 includes 90 environment -related entries. Examples of the 
policy framework entries in the TPR include: Korea's active part icipation in the WTO Environmental 
Goods Agreement (EGA) negotiations. On environment -related measures, TPR entries cover, inter 
alia: support measures involving grants, tax concessions or low -interest loans to encourage 
environmental protection activities  (e.g. new renewable energy dissemination and green 
technology R&D); and the Advance Informed Agreement Procedure and labelling requirements 
applied to genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and living modified organisms (LMOs). In the 
sectoral analysis, TP R entries include: Korea's efforts to manage fishery resources more efficiently, 
restore the coastal ecosystem, and create spawning grounds and habitats; and the plan to 
facilitate the development of "green cars", including electric vehicles.  
3.15.   The TPR of Malawi48 includes 34 environment -related entries. Examples of the policy 
framework entries in the TPR include restrictions on foreign investment applied to industries whose 
operations pose environmental concerns (including those involving hazardous waste and 
radioactive materials). On environment -related measures, TPR entries cover, inter alia: tariff 
rebates for biodiesel; and trade permit requirement on importation of wild animals, trophies and 
products. In the sectoral analysis, TPR entries include: various  afforestation, forestry conservation 
and management programmes towards the sustainable development of the country's forestry 
sector.  
3.16.   The TPR of Maldives49 includes 67 environment -related entries. Examples of the policy 
framework entries in the TPR include:  Maldives' leading role in international efforts on climate 
change; and the adoption of economic and social policies with environment considerations as key 
priorities during the review period. On environment -related measures, TPR entries cover, inter 
alia: import duty at the rate of 400% levied on non -biodegradable plastic bags and polythene 
sheets to protect the fragile ecosystem and environment; hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) 
import quota in accordance with Maldives' commitments under the Montreal Proto col; and tax 
concessions granted to environmentally -friendly products. In the sectoral analysis, TPR entries 
include: investments in alternative fuels and renewable energy in the country; and the Tourism 
Master Plans striving for global excellence in envir onmentally -responsible tourism.  
3.17.   The TPR of the Russian Federation50 includes 44 environment -related entries. Examples of 
the policy framework entries in the TPR include: sustainable development considered as one of the 
country's main trade policy objectives . On environment -related measures, TPR entries cover, inter 
alia, licensing requirements for imports and exports of ozone depleting substances, hazardous 
waste, and species of wild fauna and flora controlled under the CITES. In the sectoral analysis, TPR 
entries include: the State Programme for the sustainable development of rural areas and the 
promotion of environmentally -friendly production in the agriculture sector; and the National Plan 
to prevent IUU fishing.  
3.18.   The TPR of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia51 includes 40 environment -related entries. 
Examples of the policy framework entries in the TPR include one of the country's economic 
development objectives being to increase value added of natural resources while ensuring 
sustainability, environmental and wildl ife protection. On environment -related measures, TPR 
                                                
46 WT/TPR/G/336 and WT/TPR/S/336/Rev.1 . 
47 WT/TPR/G/346 and WT/TPR/S/346 . 
48 WT/TPR/G/335 and WT/TPR/S/335/Rev.1 . 
49 WT/TPR/G/332 and WT/TPR/S/332/Rev.1 . 
50 WT/TPR/G/345 and WT/TPR/S/345/Rev.1 . 
51 WT/TPR/G/333 and  WT/TPR/S/333/Rev.1 . WT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 28 - 
 
  entries cover, inter alia: export licensing requirements for ozone depleting materials and certain 
wild fauna and flora, and products thereof; and technical regulations and conformity assessment 
procedur es regarding the labelling of organic products. In the sectoral analysis, TPR entries 
include: the government's mining strategy study to ensure environmental sustainability of the 
sector; and several projects to promote renewable energy applications.  
3.19.   The T PR of Singapore52 includes 26 environment -related entries. Examples of the policy 
framework entries in the TPR include: strategies to enhance infrastructure and develop sustainable 
urban spaces . On environment -related measures, TPR entries cover, inter alia , non -automatic 
export licensing requirements for endangered animal and plant species, hazardous substances and 
waste, and pesticides. In the sectoral analysis, TPR entries include: Singapore's participation in all 
major International Maritime Organization  (IMO) conventions on ship safety and marine pollution 
prevention ; and policies to reduce Singapore's Greenhouse Gas Emissions by switching from fuel 
oil to natural gas . 
3.20.   The TPR of Solomon Islands53 includes 48 environment -related entries. Examples of the 
policy framework entries in the TPR include: Solomon Islands considering  excessive  fisheries 
subsidi zation by distant water fishing nations as a key contributor to  overfishing; and the country's 
vulnerability to natural disaster and climate change. On envir onment -related measures, TPR 
entries cover, inter alia : licensing requirements for imports of live fish, wildlife specimens, and 
ozone depleting substances; and import duty and goods tax  exemption for imported solar 
equipment. In the sectoral analysis, TPR  entries include: the policy objectives set out in Forestry 
Development Strategy 2009 -13 including encouraging reforestation and  smallholder plantation 
schemes,  establishing parks and conservation areas , and encouraging participation in initiatives 
aimed a t reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation . 
3.21.   The TPR of Sri Lanka54 includes 50 environment -related entries. Examples of the policy 
framework entries in the TPR include the Government  aligning its economic reforms aimed at 
achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs). On environment -related measures, TPR 
entries cover, inter alia : certification of environmental management systems and the accreditation 
scheme for greenhouse gas va lidation and verification bodies ; and export duties and export cess 
on certain goods to protect the environment. In the sectoral analysis, TPR entries include: the 
clothing sector pursuing sustainable environment policies (Green Factories) ; and Sri Lanka's  efforts 
to promote alternative energy sources such as wind and solar energy.  
3.22.   The TPR of Tunisia55 includes 65 environment -related entries. Examples of the policy 
framework entries in the TPR include the importance of the green economy in reducing 
environme ntal risks and shortages of natural resources in Tunisia. On environment -related 
measures, TPR entries cover, inter alia : environmental assessment becoming  a mandatory 
requirement when evaluating a business  since 2004; grants  to encourage  the protection of  the 
environment  (e.g. for pollution clean -up and damage repair facilities ); and prior authorization 
requirement for exportation of wastes included in list A of the Basel Convention.  In the sectoral 
analysis, TPR entries include: the fisheries development plan for 2016 -2020 with an emphasis on 
protecting, conserving , and developing marine resources while continuing to develop the biological 
recovery s ystem and  combat unregulated fishing ; and various programmes for the enhancement 
of energy efficiency and th e promotion of renewables and alternative energy sources.  
3.23.   The TPR of Turkey56 includes 47 environment -related entries. Examples of the policy 
framework entries in the TPR include: the country's support for the liberalization of  trade in 
environmental goods for the SDGs and to address climate change . On environment -related 
measures, TPR entries cover, inter alia : import licensing requirements for endangered species of 
wild fauna and flora; and state aid programmes supporting environmental protection activitie s 
(e.g. aid to support SMEs during the certification of environmental management systems and 
energy efficiency support given to low -capacity SMEs). In the sectoral analysis, TPR entries 
include: Turkey's main agricultural law providing for the protection o f biodiversity and genetic 
                                                
52 WT/TPR/G/343 and WT/TPR/S/343/Rev.1 . 
53 WT/TPR/G/349 and WT/TPR/S/349 . 
54 WT/TPR/G/347 and WT/TPR/S/347 . 
55 WT/TPR/G/341 and WT/TPR/S/341/Rev.1 . 
56 WT/TPR/G/331/Rev.1 and WT/TPR/S/331/Rev.1 . WT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 29 - 
 
  resources; and Turkey's Chemicals Industry Strategy and Course of Action Document  setting the 
target to promote environmentally -friendly products.  
3.24.   The TPR of Ukraine57 includes 55 environment -related entries. Examples of the policy 
framework entries in the TPR include:  the Canada -Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA) , which 
addresses environmental issues; and the emergence of a new competitive and efficient market for 
recycling and packaging waste in Ukraine. On environment -related measures, TPR entries cover, 
inter alia : value added tax (VAT) exemption for imports of energy -saving equipment and 
equipment using renewable energy; and import and export licensing requirements for ozone 
depleting substances. In the sectoral analysis , TPR entries include: the government's role in 
restocking fish species; and pollutant spill prevention services being exclusively provided by state-
owned enterprises, institutions and organizations . 
3.25.   The TPR of the United Arab Emirates58 includes 38 environ ment-related entries. Examples of 
the policy framework entries in the TPR include:  the Abu Dhabi future energy  initiative to develop  
Masdar City – the world’s first carbon neutral, zero waste city completely powered by renewable 
energy ; and the implementat ion of UAE Vision 2021  aimed at attaining sustainable development. 
On environment -related measures, TPR entries cover, inter alia , labels indicating energy efficiency  
required for household electrical products . In the sectoral analysis, TPR entries include : the 
Ministry of Environment and Water  encouraging  the use of modern technology in agriculture  (e.g. 
modern irrigation and hydroponics ) to conserve water ; and the fisheries survey noting a sharp 
decline in demersal catch  as a result of overfishing and degradation of the coast.  
3.26.   The TPR of the United States59 includes 147 environment -related entries. Examples of the 
policy framework entries in the TPR include:  the US' t rade negotiating objectives defined in the 
2015 Trade Pr omotion Authority  including to ensure the mutual supportiveness of trade and 
environmental policies and to seek to protect and preserve the environment ; and the President's 
Executive Order on Combating Wildlife Trafficking issued in 2013. On environment -related 
measures, TPR entries cover, inter alia : renewable energy R&D support; grants for clean energy 
technologies ; reforestation expenditures i ncome tax concession ; and the management and 
certification mechanisms to combat IUU fishing. In the sectoral anal ysis, TPR entries include: the 
Rural Energy for America Program, which encourages installations of renewable energy systems 
and energy efficiency ; and the US  Coast Guard  being responsible for environmental protection in 
maritime transport.  
3.27.   The TPR of Zambi a60 includes 39 environment -related entries. Examples of the policy 
framework entries in the TPR include  Zambia's commitment to supporting priority sectors in order 
to mainstream cross -cutting issues such as environment. On environment -related measures, TPR 
entries cover, inter alia : licensing requirement for import of genetically -modified organisms; and 
zero value added tax rate for energy -saving appliances, machinery and equipment. In the sectoral 
analysis, TPR entries include: the Mineral Resource Development Policy 2013  with environmental 
protection standards ; and the National Forestry Policy issued in  2014 that aims to reduce 
deforestation and forest degradation , focusing on ensuring  increased forest cover through 
integrated participatory forest management . 
3.28.   The information provided above is only illustrative to highlight the wide range and depth of 
data av ailable in the EDB. A complete listing can be accessed in the TPR section of the electronic 
database (see also Annex V for the EDB User Guide).61 
 
 
_______________  
 
 
  
                                                
57 WT/TPR/G/334 and WT/TPR/S/334/Rev.1 . 
58 WT/TPR/G/338 and WT/TPR/S/338/Rev.1 . 
59 WT/TPR/G/350 and WT/TPR/S/350 . 
60 WT/TPR/G/340 and WT/TPR/S/340/Rev.1 . 
61 See WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1.  WT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 30 - 
 
   
4  ANNEXES  
Annex I - Environment -related Search Words62 
Basel Convent ion HCFCs  
Bio Indigenous  
Carbon  Kyoto Protocol  
Cartagena  Modified organism  
CFCs  Marking  
CITES  Montreal Protocol  
Clean  Natural resources  
Climate  Novel  
Conserv(ation)  Organic  
Desertification  Ozone  
Diversity  Package(ing)  
Eco-label  Pollution  
Ecology  Preservation  
Emissions  Preserve  
Endangered  Recycle  
Energy  Renewable  
Environment  Saving  
Extinct   (Soil) erosion  
Fauna  Species  
Fish  Sustainable  
Flora Toxic 
Forest  Tree 
Genetic  Waste  
GHGs  Wildlife  
Green (house)  Wood  
Hazardous   
 
 
                                                
62 See also the following documents containing information on search words: WT/CTE/W/46, 
WT/CTE/W/78 and WT/CTE/W/102.   
 
  WT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 31 - Annex II - Number of Environment -related Notifications63 (1997 – 2016 ) 
WTO 
Agreements  1997  1998  1999  2000  2001  2002  2003  2004  2005  2006  2007  2008  2009  2010  2011  2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  
TBT  89(795)  98(648)  83(671)  97(610)  67(539)  114(582)  100(794)  107(638)  121(771)  155(874)  168 
(1032)  238 
(1265)  274 
(1490)  270 
(1413)  268 
(1216)  353 
(1551)  384 
(1605)  358 
(1558)  305 
(1305)  377 
(1686)  
SPS  8(286)  21(296)  12(402)  26(402)  25(621)  47(610)  50(687)  57(612)  105 
(1298)  140(901)  98(849)  84(889)  81(737)  83 
(1051)  76 
(1007)  91(856)  107 
(929)  44 
(1169)  47(1283)  62 
(1037)  
SCM  16(136)  32(133)  27(126)  38(160)  24(159)  31(177)  34(171)  13(122)  27(168)  8(97)  33(164)  5(99)  40(181)  8(117)  47(140)  17(108)  48(158)  29(110)  51(130)  31 
(127)  
Agriculture  20(237)  22(216)  27(195)  40(228)  40(242)  32(197)  34(173)  29(157)  25(148)  24(126)  32(119)  24(137)  36(210)  49(195)  44(182)  45(203)  34(135)  42(210)  32(148)  43 
(208)  
Anti-
Dumping  4(109)  1(133)  3(133)  0(127)  0(134)  1(166)  2(155)  3(134)  0(127)  0(112)  0(118)  0(134)  0(157)  0(164)  0(127)  0(133)  0(122)  2(120)  0(114)  0 (143)  
ILP 13(51)  20(63)  10(68)  21(77)  7(55)  13(96)  16(57)  12(40)  20(45)  19(62)  13(65)  20(51)  23(82)  21(72)  23(78)  30(85)  23(96)  38(99)  33(74)  39 (96)  
Safeguards  0(42)  1(47)  0(99)  1(110)  1(137)  1(170)  1(147)  3(75)  1(80)  0(86)  0(59)  0(73)  0(171)  0(106)  2(64)  2(89)  2(112)  2(110)  4(79)  0 (89)  
Customs 
Valuation  0(9) 1(14)  1(15)  3(36)  1(41)  1(41)  0(11)  0(17)  1(13)  0(1) 0(9) 0(12)  0(6) 0(4) 0(4) 3(13)  2(13)  2(23)  2(9) 0 (4) 
State Trading  0(37)  2(36)  0(50)  0(50)  1(56)  5(58)  3(38)  0(43)  1(12)  1(37)  0(20)  1(24)  0(29)  4(77)  0(8) 4(39)  0(17)  2(51)  1(14)  2 (41) 
RTAs  6(55)  8(74)  14(75)  8(56)  10(64)  0(41)  0(56)  0(70)  0(63)  0(30)  0(25)  4(37)  4(30)  4(26)  3(33)  2(37)  2(40)  4(19)  3(12)  3 (18)  
TRIPS  0(172)  1(106)  3(69)  5(333)  6(236)  16(225)  5(147)  7(251)  2(59)  2(38)  3(72)  7(139)  2(84)  8(97)  9(66)  5(139)  9(209)  5(96)  1(67)  1 (142)  
GATS  0(24)  1(25)  0(21)  0(25)  0(46)  7(43)  0(41)  4(52)  1(53)  1(29)  0(41)  0(49)  0(68)  2(45)  1(38)  3(66)  1(48)  3(75)  7(64)  1 (21) 
QRs 5(15)  3(11)  2(13)  5(18)  2(10)  4(14)  2(8) 7(10)  1(6) 2(8) 3(6) 4(12)  2(8) 1(6) 2(8) 13(14)  5(10)  15(22)  8(11)  12 (16)  
TRIMs  0(18)  0(22)  0(12)  0(10)  0(2) 0(29)  0(13)  0(12)  0(14)  0(14)  0(13)  0(9) 0(21)  0(18)  0(4) 0(4) 0(6) 0(6) 0(5) 1 (4) 
BoP 
Provisions  1(23)  0(11)  0(7) 0(9) 0(7) 0(4) 0(0) 0(1) 0(1) 0(0) 0(1) 0(0) 0(9) 0(6) 0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0(5) 1 (4) 
Preshipment 
Inspection  0(2) 0(1) 0(1) 0(0) 0(1) 0(0) 0(0) 0(1) 0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0(1) 0(0) 0(2) 0(2) 0(4) 0(3) 0(2) 0(2) 0 (1) 
Rules of 
Origin  0(4) 0(6) 0(3) 0(4) 0(6) 0(4) 0(4) 0(3) 0(2) 0(1) 0(7) 0(4) 0(5) 0(4) 0(8) 0(14)  0(22)  0(17)  0(13)  0 (17)  
GPA 2(7) 0(14)  0(9) 0(19)  2(14)  9(21)  0(8) 1(11)  5(11)  4(10)  3(8) 8(14)  18(29)  3(32)  2(16)  1(13)  2(15)  5(27)  4(40)  2 (66)  
ITA  0(0) 0(18)  0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0(0) 0 (0) 
Trade 
Facilitation                   0(55)  0(26)  0 (17)  
Other 
notifications  1(15)  0(5) 0(3) 1(8) 0(6) 0(4) 0(3) 1(7) 1(3) 1(2) 0(5) 0(8) 0(4) 0(6) 0(9) 0(6) 1(5) 0(4) 0(7) 0 (7) 
Total 
environment -
related 
notifications  165 
(2027)  211 
(1879)  182 
(1972)  245 
(2282)  186 
(2376)  281 
(2482)  247 
(2513)  244 
(2256)  311 
(2874)  357 
(2428)  353 
(2613)  395 
(2957)  481 
(3321)  453 
(3441)  477 
(3010)  569 
(3374)  620 
(3545)  551 
(3773)  498 
(3408)  575 
(3744) 
Share of 
environment -
related 
notifications  8.10%  11.20%  9.20%  10.70%  7.80%  11.30%  9.80%  10.80%  10.80%  14.70%  13.50%  13.40%  14.50%  13.20%  15.80%  16.90%  17.49%  14.60%  14.61%  15.36% 
 
 
 
                                                
63 Figures in parenthesis represent the total number of notifications  submitted by Members  under each relevant WTO Agreement.  This number includ es regular notifications as well as adden da, 
corrigenda and revisions , except in the case of  TBT and SPS notifications, where addenda, corrigenda and revisions  are not covered.  WT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 32 - 
 
  Annex III - Number of Environment -related Notifications and Measures64 (2016 ) 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
                                                
64 Notifications may contain more than one measure.  
377
62
314339
2 3 1 112
1 1 2377
62190259
153
2 3 1 1113
12
1 2
Total Environment-related Notifications Total Environment-related MeasuresWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 33 - 
 
  Annex IV - Search Word Frequency in Notifications in 201665 
 
 
  
                                                
65 Figures in parenthesis indicate the share of total environment -related notifications that included a 
given search word.  
18 (3.1%)
59 (10.3%)
7 (1.2%)
1 (0.2%)
13 (2.3%)
33 (5.7%)
16 (2.8%)
11 (1.9%)
48 (8.3%)
1 (0.2%)
10 (1.7%)
24 (4.2%)
48 (8.3%)
30 (5.2%)
113 (19.7%)
257 (44.7%)
5 (0.9%)
31 (5.4%)
26 (4.5%)
29 (5.0%)
21 (3.7%)
23 (4.0%)
12 (2.1%)
69 (12.0%)
12 (2.1%)
2 (0.3%)
2 (0.3%)
11 (1.9%)
26 (4.5%)
36 (6.3%)
64 (11.1%)
33 (5.7%)
1 (0.2%)
37 (6.4%)
5 (0.9%)
7 (1.2%)
33 (5.7%)
13 (2.3%)
21 (3.7%)
39 (6.8%)
16 (2.8%)
45 (7.8%)
33 (5.7%)
1 (0.2%)
55 (9.6%)
22 (3.8%)
5 (0.9%)Basel Convention
Bio
Carbon
Cartagena
CFCs
CITES
Clean
Climate
Conserv(ation)
Desertification
Diversity
Ecology
Emissions
Endangered
Energy
Environment
Extinct
Fauna
Fish
Flora
Forest
Genetic
Green (house)
Hazardous
HCFCs
Indigenous
Kyoto Protocol
Modified organism
Montreal Protocol
Natural resources
Organic
Ozone
Package(ing)
Pollution
Preservation
Preserve
Recycle
Renewable
Saving
Species
(Soil) erosion
Sustainable
Toxic
Tree
Waste
Wildlife
WoodWT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
- 34 - 
 
  Annex V - Electronic EDB User's Guide  
I. WHAT INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE IN THE ELECTRONIC EDB?  
1. The electronic EDB compiles all environment -related notifications made under the vario us 
WTO Agreements and environment -related measures/activities reported in the TPRs in an Excel 
Workbook.66 It allows users to search through the EDB environment -related information according 
to specific criteria, for instance by Member, agreement, type of m easure, sector  or environmental 
objective.   
2. The Excel Workbook is divided into two main worksheets:  "Notifications", listing all the 
environment -related notifications; and "TPRs", providing the environment -related information 
mentioned in TPRs.  In addition , a third worksheet entitled "Summary" is included to allow users to 
retrieve pre -defined summary tables and graphs  for the period 1997 – 2016. 
A. "Notifications" worksheet  
3. The "Notifications" worksheet displays the following information:  
 Agreement : the WTO Agreement being notified;  
 Document symbol : the symbo l of the notification document ; 
 Document link : the W eb link to WTO Documents Online;  
 Notifying Member : the Member notifying the environment -related measure;  
 Region group : the region of the notifying M ember;  
 Development status : the development status of the notifying Member;  
 Year: the year of notification;  
 Notification pursuant to : the provisions of the relevant Agreement;  
 Measure description : a description of the measure as indicated in the notification;  
 Type of measure : the type of measure stated in the notification;  
 Coverage of  the measure : products/activities subject to the notified measure;  
 ICS – HS code : ICS or HS classification of the relevant products (when available);  
 Implementation p eriod: the implementation period or date of the entry into force of the 
notified measure;  
 Environment -related objective : the environment -related objective of the measure;  and  
 Keywords : the environment -related keyword search included in the notification (s ee 
Annex I).  
4. Three harmonized categories have also been created to facilitate research:  
 Type of environment -related objectives ;  
 Type of measures ; and  
 Type of sectors subject to the measure . 
B. "TPRs" worksheet  
5. The "TPRs" worksheet displays the following information:  
 Entries : Each environment -related entry is numbered;  
 Type of TPR : TPR reports prepared by either the Secretariat or the Member;  
 Document symbol : the symbol of the TPR document;  
Document link : the Web link to WTO Documents Online ; 
 Document refe rence : reference made to the chapter (e.g. "I II") and paragraph number 
"§" in the TPR document ("G" or "S" for government or secretariat TPR);  
                                                
66 WT/CTE/EDB/16/Add.1  WT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
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   Member : the Member covered in  the TPR;  
 Region group : the region of the Member;  
 Development status : the development status of the Member;  
 Year: the year of publication of the TPR;  
 Type of information : the type of environment -related information found in the TPR 
(whether trade policy framework; trade policy by measure; or trade policy by sector);  
 Type of meas ures: the measure (s) associated with the environment -related information  
(for TPR, an additional category of type of measure is included to those used for 
notifications: General environmental reference);  
 Type of sectors : the sector (s) associated with the environment -related information;  
 Relevant information : an excerpt of the environment -related information found in the 
TPR; and 
 Keywords : the keyword search included in the TPR reports.  
C. "Summary" worksheet  
6. The "Summary" worksheet pro vides pre -defined information and graphs on environment -
related notifications to each WTO Agreement and measures mentioned in TPRs.   
II. HOW TO USE THE ELECTRONIC EDB?  
7. The Excel Workbook allows searches through all the variables mentioned above by using th e 
filter function . Users can, by clicking on the right -bottom arrow icon of the heading of the 
selected variable, either select the information on a drop -down list (see left image of Chart 4.1 ) or 
type in the relevant information (see right image of Chart 4.1 ). 
Chart 4.1 - Search function  
    
 
 
 
8. Multiple criteria search is also possible, for instance, to search all notifications made by a 
given country or region/development status group with a specific environment -related objective or 
a speci fic type of measure.  
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  9. For example, retrieving all TBT notifications that contain "technical regulation or 
specifications" to promote "energy conservation and efficiency", can be done as follows:  
a. select the "Notifications" spreadsheet;  
b. select the TBT Agreem ent in the column "Agreement" by clicking on the bottom -right 
arrow icon and typing "Technical barriers to trade" in the search box;  
c. select the type of measure in the column "Harmonized types of measures" by clicking on 
the bottom -right arrow icon of the h eading and typing "technical regulation or 
specifications" in the search box;  
d. select the type of objective in the column "Harmonized types of environment -related 
objectives" by clicking on the bottom -right arrow icon of the heading and typing "energy 
conse rvation and efficiency" in the search box.  
10. After the search, to go back to the full database, it is important to follow the reverse order 
of the selection:  
a. click on the bottom -right arrow icon of the heading of the variable "Category of 
environment -relate d objective" and select the "Select All" box;  
b. click on the bottom -right arrow icon of the heading of the variable "Category of type of 
measure " and select the "Select All" box; and  
c. click on the bottom -right arrow icon of the heading of the variable "Agreement" and 
select the "Select All" box.  
11. Once the data is selected through the filter, the user can print the records by hiding the 
variables of no interest (select the column, right -click and select "hide" option). In addition, the 
user can apply the scaling option available with the printer to fit all the selected columns on one 
page.  
III. HARMONIZED CATEGORIES  
Table 4.1 - Category of environment -related objectives (25)  
Afforestation/reforestation  
Air pollution reduction  
Alternativ e and renewable energy  
Animal protection  
Biodiversity and ecosystem  
Chemical, toxic and hazardous substances management  
Climate change mitigation and adaptation  
Energy conservation and efficiency  
Environmental goods and services promotion  
Environmental protection from pests and diseases  
Environmentally friendly consumption  
General environmental protection  
MEAs implementation and compliance  
Natural resources conservation  
Other environmental risks mitigation  
Ozone layer protection  WT/CTE/EDB/16  
 
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  Plant protection  
Soil management and conservation  
Sustainable agriculture management  
Sustainable and environmentally friendly production  
Sustainable fisheries management  
Sustainable forestry management  
Sustainable mining management  
Waste management and recycling  
Water management and conservation  
 
Table 4.2 - Category of type of measures (30)  
Anti-dumping measure / investigation  
Ban/Prohibition  
Conformity assessment procedures  
Countervailing measure / investigation  
Environmental provisions in trade agreements  
Export licences  
Export quotas  
Export tariffs  
Grants and direct payments  
Import licences  
Import quotas  
Import tariffs  
Income or price support  
Intellectual property measures  
Internal taxes  
Investment measures  
Loans and financing  
Non-monetary support  
Not specified  
Other environmental requirements  
Other measures  
Other price and market based measures  
Other support measures  
Public procurement  
Quarantine requirements  
Regulation affecting movement or transit  
Risk assessment  
Safeguard measure / investigation  
Tax concessions  
Technical regulation or specifications  
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  Table 4.3 - Category of sectors subject to the measure (11)  
Agriculture  
All products/economic activities  
Chemicals  
Energy  
Fisheries  
Forestry  
Manufacturing  
Mining  
Not specified  
Other  
Services  
 
 
 
 
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