Very importantly, the plan seeks to harness commercial interests in meeting environmental concerns. In this manner, it is expected that resources will be mobilised to address the worst sources of pollution. A longer term Strategic Action Programme for the environment will soon be initiated, with support from the Global Environment Facility. Current Environmental Situation Detailed assessments of the region s environmental situation have been conducted. There appears to be an emerging consensus among Tumen Programme member countries on what constitute the most significant environmental concerns in the region.
Water pollution is the most serious problem.
Tumen waters fail to meet internationally accepted environmental standards. The efforts of individual countries to apply minimum standards have so far been ineffectual. Greater regional cooperation is needed to address the problem. The trans-boundary cost of water pollution is high. Downstream farming and drinking water is directly affected.