CELEX: 52005PC0244
Language: en
Date: 2005-06-07
Title: Proposal for a Council Decision on the signature of the Protocol on Soil Protection, the Protocol on Energy and the Protocol on Tourism to the Alpine Convention

Important legal notice

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52005PC0244

Proposal for a Council Decision on the signature of the Protocol on Soil Protection, the Protocol on Energy and the Protocol on Tourism to the Alpine Convention  /* COM/2005/0244 final */  

	[pic] | COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES |Brussels, 7.6.2005COM(2005) 244 finalProposal for aCOUNCIL DECISIONon the signature of the Protocol on Soil Protection, the Protocol on Energy and the Protocol on Tourism to the Alpine Convention(presented by the Commission)EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM1. BACKGROUNDMany environmental problems have a transboundary nature and can be addressed effectively only through international cooperation. For this reason, Article 174 of the EC Treaty establishes that one of the key objectives of European Community (EC) policy on the environment is to promote measures at international level to deal with regional environmental problems.As the alpine region is an ecologically highly sensitive area the EC must pay more attention to that region and must address its problems by an appropriate approach. The Commission supports the objective of promoting a high level of environmental protection by taking into account the diversity of situations in the various regions. Priority areas of the 6th Environment Action Programme[1] - climate change, nature and biodiversity, health and quality of life as well as natural resources and waste – can be promoted and strengthened in the mountain regions by international agreements.The Convention on the Protection of the Alps, the Alpine Convention, was signed by the European Community at Salzburg on the 7th November 1991, and by Council Decision 96/191/EC of 26th February 1996[2] the Community ratified the Convention, which finally entered into force on the 4th April 1998. The other Contracting Parties are Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Slovenia and Switzerland.The reasons for the Council decision are still valid. They are the following:(1) the conclusion of the Convention forms part of the involvement of the Community in the international activities on the protection of the environment recommended in (…) the fifth Programme of Action (1992) by the European Communities on the Environment and(2) the protection of the Alps is a major challenge to all Member States owing to the cross-frontier nature of the economic, social and ecological problems of the Alpine area.Pursuant to Article 2(2) and (3) of the Alpine Convention, concrete measures to achieve these goals are laid down in different Protocols. By ratifying the Alpine Convention, the EC is committed to fulfil the obligations of this Convention. The signature and ratification of the Protocols fit within the framework of the environmental policy of the European Community; in particular Article 174(4) of the EC Treaty provides explicitly for international cooperation in the environmental field. They are also consistent with the 6th Environment Action Programme. Finally, the Alpine Convention and the Protocols which complete the Convention, provide a framework for sustainable development based on the principles of subsidiarity, prevention and cooperation, and the polluter-pays principle. These are principles followed by EC policies.The Convention is clearly covered by the EC environmental policy framework as set out in Article 174 of the EC Treaty. The Protocols can be considered as measures which make the Convention operational. Although each of the Protocols is an International agreement they all derive from the Alpine Convention. Hence it is appropriate to approach them all from an environmental point of view and for them to have a common legal basis, namely Article 174 ff. of the EC Treaty even though they cover specific objectives.All the Protocols have been signed by the Member States of the Alpine Convention. Germany, Austria, Slovenia and Liechtenstein have ratified the Protocols and they have entered into force. France, Italy and Switzerland are currently undertaking efforts to ratify the Protocols.2. THE COMMUNITY AND THE PROTOCOLSThe Commission has identified three of the Protocols which it would be desirable for the European Community to sign at the present time. They are the Protocols on Soil Protection, on Energy, and on Tourism. The European Commission has already adopted a proposal for the signature of the Protocol on Transport which has to be signed by the Council. The Protocols on Spatial Planning and Sustainable Development, on Mountain Agriculture, and on Nature protection have already been signed by the European Community. Signature of the Protocols on Mountain Forests, and on Dispute settlement will be considered at a later stage.a) Protocol on Soil ProtectionThe Alpine Convention’s Protocol on Soil protection gives a number of strong indications on soil protection in line with the Commission’s reflections on the strategy for soil protection[3] and the European Parliament’s resolution[4] on the Commission’s communication “Towards a Thematic Strategy for Soil Protection”. One of the main goals, set out in article 1 of the Protocol, is the safeguard of the multifunctional role of soil based on the idea of sustainable development. Therefore, the sustainable productivity of soil must be ensured, in its natural function (as basis of life and living space for human beings, animals and plants, as a crucial element of nature and landscape, as part of the eco-system and as genetic recource), as an archive of natural and cultural history and in order to guarantee its use for agriculture and forestry, urbanism and tourism, other economic uses, transport and infrastructure, and as a source of raw materials.The Protocol could help to implement appropriate measures at national and regional level as any approach to soil protection must take account of the considerable diversity of regional and local conditions that exist across Europe. The signature and ratification of the Protocol would be a concrete measure to strengthen the Commission’s strategy as progress is expected according to the Council conclusions on integrated soil protection[5]. Indeed several elements contained in the Protocol can be used as building blocks for a Community policy on soil protection such as soil monitoring requirements, identification of risk zones for erosion, flooding and landslides, an inventory of contaminated sites, and the establishment of harmonised databases.However, the Commission proposes to introduce a Declaration regarding Article 12 paragraph 3 of the Protocol on Soil Protection on the use of sewage sludge which should be interpreted in the light of the Council Directive on the protection of the environment, and in particular of the soil, when sewage sludge is used in agriculture (86/278/EEC)[6]. The Commission is of the opinion that sludge can have valuable agronomic properties and encouragement of its application in agriculture provided it is used correctly and does not impair the quality of the soil and of agricultural products, is outlined in Recital 7 of this Directive, nor give rise to harmful effects on man (direct or indirect consequences on human health), animals, plants and the environment, as it is outlined in Recital 5 and Article 1 of the Directive.Another proposed Declaration concerns Article 17(2) of the Protocol on Soil Protection. This Article should be read in such a way as to ensure that waste management plans for the pre-treatment, treatment and disposal of waste and residual materials are drawn up and implemented, in order to avoid soil contamination and ensure compatibility not only with the environment but also with human health.Concerning Article 19(2) and Article 21(2) a Declaration is suggested that the common observation system under the Alpine Convention should be as compatible as possible with the Global Earth Observation System of the Systems (GEOSS). Earth observation systems consist of measurements of air, water, and land made on the ground, from the air, or from space. Historically observed in isolation, the current effort is to look at these elements together and to study their interactions. The Global Earth Observation System of Systems is envisaged as a distributed system of systems building upon current co-operative efforts among existing observing and processing systems, working with their own mandates, and delivering a system that provides timely, useful and accurate data, information, products and services to any and all legitimate users around the world.b) Protocol on EnergyThe 6th Environment Action Programme[7] sets out the European Community’s commitment to combat climate change as well as the sustainable management and use of natural resources. Specific measures must be taken to raise energy efficiency, to promote the use of renewable energy and to guarantee the integration of climate change aspects into other policies.Contracting Parties to the Protocol on Energy agree to take appropriate measures in the field of energy saving, production, transport, delivery and use of energy to foster conditions for sustainable development.The provisions of the Protocol are in line with the Commission’s policy[8] and the signature of the Protocol would also strengthen trans-border cooperation with Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Monaco. This would help to ensure that our goals are shared by regional partners and that such initiatives cover the whole Alpine eco-region. The European Union (EU) has committed itself to a number of environmental policies which could and should also be promoted on regional level by appropriate (inter-)governmental bodies such as the Alpine Convention.However, the Commission suggests introducing a Reservation regarding Article 9 of the Protocol on Energy which concerns questions of nuclear power. So far as the EC is concerned, such requirements are provided for in the Treaty establishing the Atomic Energy Community (EURATOM). Neither the decision to be taken nor the decision by which the Alpine Convention has been ratified is based on the EURATOM Treaty but solely on the EC Treaty. Consequently, in the absence of an adequate legal basis, the EC can not accede to this Article unless it were to be revised in more general terms.c) Protocol on TourismTourism is an economically highly important sector in most parts of the Alps and is directly linked to environmental and social impacts. As the mountain region is a unique and ecologically very sensitive area a balance between economic interests and environmental concerns is extremely important for the sustainable development of the region. Tourist activities are practised by local populations but mainly by people coming from destinations outside the mountain region. Tourism is a more and more global phenomenon even if measures need to be implemented on national or regional level.With its recently adopted communication on “Basic orientations for the sustainability of European tourism”[9] the Commission aims at addressing specific problems related to tourism and additional challenges specific to particular geographical areas, such as the Alps. One important approach is the promotion of sustainable patterns of tourism.The recently adopted working paper on “Community measures affecting tourism”[10] clearly shows the wide range of EU policies and legislation which concerns, directly or indirectly, European and international tourism.The Protocol on Tourism whose overall goal is to promote environmentally friendly and sustainable tourism by specific measures and recommendations can be used as instrument for integrating environmental aspects of sustainable tourism development into economic and social strategies.Signature of the Protocol would be a strong political signal for the Alpine region and mountain regions in general and a concrete step in the follow-up of the World Summit on Sustainable Development, and the International Year 2002 on Eco-Tourism.3. CONCLUSIONSThe Alpine Convention and its Protocols are an instrument which enables the European Community to strengthen environmental protection for a large highly sensitive cross-border zone. The European Community is committed to the objectives of the Convention and the Protocols. The signature of the Protocols will be a clear sign of this commitment.Proposal for aCOUNCIL DECISIONon the signature of the Protocol on Soil Protection, the Protocol on Energy and the Protocol on Tourism to the Alpine ConventionTHE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community, and in particular Articles 175 (1) and 300(2) first subparagraph first sentence thereof,Having regard to the proposal from the Commission[11],Whereas:(1) The Convention on the protection of the Alps (Alpine Convention) was signed on behalf of the European Community on 7 November 1991[12].(2) The Protocols are an important step in the implementation of the Alpine Convention, and the European Community is committed to the objectives of this Convention.(3) Economic, social and ecological cross-border problems of the Alps remain a major challenge to be addressed in this highly sensitive area.(4) Community Policies, in particular priority areas of 6th Environment Action Programme[13], should be promoted and strengthened within the Alpine region.(5) It is appropriate that these Protocols be signed by the Community.HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS:Sole ArticleThe President of the Council is hereby authorised to designate the person(s) empowered to sign, on behalf of the Community, subject to conclusion, the Protocol on Soil Protection, the Protocol on Energy and the Protocol on Tourism to the Alpine Convention, done at Salzburg on 7 November 1991, and to confer upon them the power necessary for that purpose.Done at Brussels,For the CouncilThe PresidentDECLARATION S BY THE EUROPEAN COMMISSIONREGARDING ARTICLE 12 PARAGRAPH 3 OF THE PROTOCOL ON «SOIL PROTECTION» OF THE ALPINE CONVENTIONThe above Article should be interpreted in the light of the Council Directive of 12 June 1986 on the protection of the environment, and in particular of the soil, when sewage sludge is used in agriculture (86/278/EEC)[14]. The Commission is of the opinion that sludge can have valuable agronomic properties and it is therefore justified to encourage its application in agriculture provided it is used correctly. Furthermore, the Commission is of the opinion that the use of sewage sludge must not impair the quality of the soil and of agricultural products as it is outlined in Recital 7 of this Directive, nor give rise to harmful effects on man (direct and indirect consequences on human health), animals, plants and the environment, as it is outlined in Recital 5 and Article 1 of the Directive.DECLARATION BY THE EUROPEAN COMMISSIONregarding Article 17 paragraph 2 of the Protocol on «Soil Protection» of the Alpine ConventionArticle 17(2) of the Protocol on Soil Protection should be read in such a way as to ensure that waste management plans for the pre-treatment, treatment and disposal of waste and residual materials are drawn up and implemented, in order to avoid soil contamination and ensure compatibility not only with the environment but also with human health.DECLARATION BY THE EUROPEAN COMMISSIONregarding Article 19 paragraph 2 and Article 21 paragraph 2 of the Protocol on «Soil Protection» of the Alpine ConventionConcerning Article 19(2) and Article 21(2) the common observation system should be as compatible as possible with the Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS).RESERVATION BY THE EUROPEAN COMMISSIONregarding Article 9 of the Protocol on «ENERGY» of the Alpine ConventionArticle 9 of the Protocol on Energy concerns questions of nuclear power. So far as the EC is concerned, such requirements are provided for in the Treaty establishing the Atomic Energy Community (EURATOM). Neither the decision to be taken nor the decision by which the Alpine Convention has been ratified is based on the EURATOM Treaty but solely on the EC Treaty. Consequently, in the absence of an adequate legal basis, the EC can not accede to this Article unless it were to be revised in more general terms.PROTOCOLON THE IMPLEMENTATION O F THE ALPINE CONVENTION OF 1991IN THE FIELD OF SOIL CONSERVATIONSOIL CONSERVATION PROTOCOLPreambleThe Federal Republic of Germany,The Republic of Austria,The French Republic,The Italian Republic,The Principality of Liechtenstein,The Principality of Monaco,The Republic of Slovenia,The Swiss Confederation,andThe European Community,In accordance with their task, arising from the Convention on the Protection of the Alps (Alpine Convention) of 7 November 1991, of pursuing a comprehensive policy for the protection and the sustainable development of the Alpine region;In compliance with their obligations under Article 2(2) and (3) of the Alpine Convention;Aiming to reduce quantitative and qualitative soil impairments, in particular by applying agricultural and silvicultural production processes which have a minimal detrimental impact on the soil, by using land economically, controlling erosion and restricting soil sealing;Aware of the fact that the protection of the Alpine soils, their sustainable management and the restoration of their natural functions in impaired locations are matters of general interest;Recognising that the Alps, constituting one of the largest continuous natural areas in Europe, are characterised by an ecological diversity and by highly sensitive ecosystems whose functionality must be preserved;Convinced that the local population must be able to determine its own social, cultural and economic development plan and take part in its implementation in the existing institutional framework;Aware that, on the one hand, the Alps are an important living and economic environment for the resident populations and a recreational environment for the populations of other regions and that, on the other hand, the preservation of soil functions is jeopardised by diverging claims on soil utilisation which clash within the narrow confines of the Alpine region; and that for this reason, economic interests must be reconciled with ecological requirements;Recognising that the soil occupies a special position within ecosystems, that its formation as well as the regeneration of impaired soils happen very slowly, that increased soil erosion is to be expected owing to topographical conditions in the Alpine region, and that the soil constitutes a sink for harmful substances while contaminated soils can be a source of inputs of those substances into neighbouring ecosystems, thus putting at risk humans, animals and plants;Aware that soil utilisation, especially for the purposes of human settlement, the development of trade and industry, infrastructures, the extraction of mineral resources, tourism, agriculture, forestry and transport can lead to quantitative or qualitative soil impairments and that accordingly, adequate integrated measures should be proposed to prevent, control and repair damage to the soil;Considering that soil conservation has manifold implications for other policies in the Alpine region and should therefore be coordinated in a cross-disciplinary and cross-sectoral fashion;Convinced that certain problems can only be resolved in a cross-border framework and require joint measures on the part of the Alpine States, to be implemented by the Signatories in accordance with the available means,Have agreed as follows:Chapter IGeneral obligationsArticle 1Objectives(1) This Protocol serves to implement the obligations in the field of soil conservation entered into by the Contracting Parties to the Alpine Convention.(2) The Alpine soil shall be preserved in a sustainable manner to allow it to perform:1. its natural functions asa) a livelihood resource and a living environment for humans, animals, plants and micro-organisms,b) a characteristic element of nature and the landscape,c) an integral part of the ecological balance, especially with regard to its water and nutrient cycles,d) a conversion and compensating medium to offset inputs of substances, especially due to its filtering, buffering and storage qualities, in particular for the protection of groundwater,e) a genetic reservoir,2. its function as an archive of natural history and the history of civilisation, as well as3. its functions asa) a location for agricultural use including pasture farming and forestry,b) a space for human settlement and tourism activities,c) a location for other commercial usages, for transport, supply and distribution, and water and waste disposal,d) a source of raw materials.In particular, the ecological functions of soil, which are essential elements of the ecological balance, shall be safeguarded and preserved both qualitatively and quantitatively on a long-term basis. The restoration of impaired soils shall be promoted.(3) The measures to be taken are aimed specifically at soil utilisation which suits its location, at the economical use of land resources, at the avoidance of erosion and detrimental changes to the soil structure, and at minimising the input of substances harmful to the soil.(4) The diversity of soils, which is typical of the Alpine region, and its characteristic locations shall be preserved and promoted in particular.(5) In this endeavour the principle of prevention, which comprises the safeguarding of the functionality of soils and the possibility to use them for various purposes as well as their availability to future generations with a view to sustainable development, is of particular significance.Article 2Fundamental obligations(1) The Contracting Parties undertake to initiate the requisite legal and administrative measures for ensuring the conservation of soils in the Alpine region. The respective national authorities shall be responsible for monitoring those measures.(2) If there is a risk of serious and sustained damage to the functionality of soils, protection shall, as a matter of principle, be given priority over utilisation.(3) The Contracting Parties shall explore the possibilities of supporting, through fiscal and/or financial measures, the actions for soil conservation in the Alpine region targeted by this Protocol. Measures compatible with soil conservation and with the objectives of a prudent and environmentally sound utilisation of soils shall be specially supported.Article 3Taking account of the objectives in other policiesThe Contracting Parties undertake to take account of the objectives of this Protocol in their other policies as well. In the Alpine region, this applies specifically to regional planning, settlement and transport, energy management, agriculture and forestry, raw material extraction, trade and industry, tourism, nature conservation and landscape upkeep, water and waste management, and clean air.Article 4Participation of regional and local authorities(1) Each Contracting Party shall define, within its existing institutional framework, the best level of coordination and cooperation between the institutions and regional and local authorities directly concerned so as to encourage shared responsibility, in particular to exploit and develop synergies when implementing soil conservation policies and the resulting measures in the Alpine region.(2) The regional and local authorities directly concerned shall be involved in the various stages of preparing and implementing these policies and measures, within their sphere of competence and within the existing institutional framework.Article 5International cooperation(1) The Contracting Parties shall encourage stronger international cooperation among the competent institutions, especially with regard to the drawing up of soil registers, soil monitoring, the designation and monitoring of protected and impaired areas and danger zones, the provision and harmonisation of databases, the coordination of Alpine-specific soil conservation research, and mutual reporting.(2) The Contracting Parties undertake to remove obstacles to international cooperation between territorial authorities in the Alpine region, and to encourage solutions to shared problems at the most suitable level.(3) If the definition of measures relating to soil conservation falls within the sphere of national or international competence, the territorial authorities shall be given possibilities to efficiently represent the interests of the population.Chapter IISpecific measuresArticle 6Designation of protected areasThe Contracting Parties shall see to it that soils worthy of protection are included in the designation of protected areas. Specifically, soil and rock formations which have particularly characteristic features or a particular significance for the documentation of Earth's history, shall be preserved.Article 7Economical and prudent use of soils(1) In drawing up and implementing plans and/or programmes according to Article 9 (3) of the Protocol on Spatial Planning and Sustainable Development, matters regarding soil conservation, especially the economical use of soil and land, shall be taken into consideration.(2) In order to limit soil sealing and soil consumption, the Contracting Parties shall provide for space-saving construction and an economical use of soil resources. They shall preferably seek to keep the development of human settlements within existing boundaries and to limit settlement growth outside these boundaries.(3) When assessing the spatial and environmental compatibility of large-scale projects in the fields of trade and industry, construction and infrastructure, especially in the transport, energy and tourism sectors, soil conservation and the scarcity of space in the Alpine region shall be taken into account within the framework of the national procedures.(4) Where natural conditions allow it, disused or impaired soils, especially landfills, slag heaps, infrastructures or ski runs, shall be restored to their original state or shall be recultivated.Article 8Economical use and prudent extraction of mineral resources(1) The Contracting Parties shall see to it that mineral resources are used economically. They shall work towards ensuring that preference is given to the utilisation of substitute materials and that recycling options are fully used or their development is encouraged.(2) When extracting, processing and utilising mineral resources, impairments of other soil functions shall be reduced to a minimum. In those areas which are particularly important for the protection of soil functions and in areas specifically designated as drinking water resources, the extraction of mineral resources shall be foregone.Article 9Conservation of soils in wetlands and moors(1) The Contracting Parties undertake to preserve high moors and lowland moors. To achieve this objective, the use of peat shall be discontinued completely in the medium term.(2) Drainage schemes in wetlands and moors shall be limited to the upkeep of existing networks unless there are sound reasons for exceptions. Remedial measures shall be promoted to minimise the environmental impact of existing drainage systems.(3) On principle, moor soils shall not be utilised or, when used for agricultural purposes, shall be managed so that their characteristic features remain intact.Article 10Designation and management of endangered areas(1) The Contracting Parties agree to draw up maps of Alpine areas which are endangered by geological, hydrogeological and hydrological risks, in particular by land movement (mass slides, mudslides, landslides), avalanches and floods, to register those areas and to designate danger zones when necessary. If applicable, seismic risks shall also be considered.(2) The Contracting Parties shall make sure that engineering techniques are used in endangered areas which are as compatible with nature as possible, and that local and traditional building materials which suit the local countryside are used. These measures shall be supported by appropriate silvicultural measures.Article 11Designation and management of Alpine areas threatened by erosion(1) The Contracting Parties undertake to map Alpine areas threatened by extensive erosion on the basis of comparable criteria for quantifying soil erosion, and to register those areas in as far as this is necessary for the protection of material goods.(2) Soil erosion shall be limited to the inevitable minimum. Areas damaged by erosion and land movement shall be rehabilitated in as far as this is necessary for the protection of human beings and material goods.(3) To protect human beings and material goods, measures to control water erosion as well as measures to reduce surface run-off shall preferably comprise hydraulic, engineering and silvicultural techniques with minimal environmental impact.Article 12Agriculture, pasture farming and forestry(1) To ensure protection against erosion and harmful soil compaction, the Contracting Parties undertake to use sound practices in agriculture, pasture farming and forestry which are adapted to suit local conditions.(2) As regards the input of substances through the use of fertilisers, herbicides and pesticides, the Contracting Parties shall strive to elaborate and implement shared standards for sound expert practices. The type, quantity and time of fertilisation shall be suited to the needs of the plants, taking into account the nutrients available in the soil, the organic substance as well as the location of the plants and the conditions in which they are cultivated. This is achieved by using ecological/biological and integrated methods of cultivation, as well as by matching livestock to natural local growth conditions.(3) In Alpine pasture areas, the usage of mineral fertilisers and synthetic herbicides and pesticides in particular shall be minimised. The use of sewage sludges shall be foregone.Article 13Silvicultural and other measures(1) With regard to mountain forests which offer a high degree of protection to their own location, or above all to human settlements, transport infrastructures, croplands and similar areas, the Contracting Parties undertake to give priority to the protective function of these forests and to gear their silvicultural management towards preserving this function. Such mountain forests shall be preserved in their original locations.(2) Specifically, forests shall be used and maintained in such a way that soil erosion and harmful soil compaction are avoided. To achieve this, silvicultural measures adapted to local conditions as well as natural forest rejuvenation shall be promoted.Article 14Effects of tourism infrastructures(1) The Contracting Parties shall use their influence in the most appropriate manner to ensure that-  detrimental effects of tourism activities on Alpine soils are avoided,-  soils impaired by intensive tourism are stabilised, especially and whenever possible by restoring the vegetation cover and applying environmentally sound engineering techniques. Further utilisation of the soils shall seek to prevent such damage from recurring,-  permits for the construction and levelling of ski runs in forests with a protective function are granted only in exceptional cases and with the proviso that compensatory action is taken, and that such permits are not granted for fragile areas.(2) Chemical and biological additives for the grooming of ski runs are permissible only if proof of their ecological harmlessness has been furnished.(3) Where significant damage to soils and vegetation is found to exist, the Contracting Parties shall take the necessary remedial action at the earliest possible point in time.Article 15Limiting inputs of harmful substances(1) The Contracting Parties shall do everything in their power to minimise, through preventive action, inputs of harmful substances into the soils through water, air, waste and other substances harmful to the environment. Preference shall be given to measures limiting emissions at their sources.(2) To avoid soil contamination when using dangerous substances, the Contracting parties shall issue technical regulations, provide for checks, carry out research programmes and engage in educational work.Article 16Environmentally compatible utilisation of gritting materialsThe Contracting Parties undertake to minimise the use of gritting salt and, wherever possible, to use slippage-preventing and less contaminating materials such as gravel and sand.Article 17Contaminated soils, environmental liabilities, waste management concepts(1) The Contracting Parties undertake to survey and document their environmental liabilities and suspicious landfills (environmental liabilities register), to analyse the condition of those areas and to assess their hazard potential using comparable methods.(2) To avoid soil contamination and to ensure the environmentally compatible pretreatment, treatment and disposal of waste and residual materials, waste management concepts shall be drawn up and implemented.Article 18Further measuresThe Contracting Parties may take measures regarding soil conservation which go beyond the measures provided for in this Protocol.Chapter IIIResearch, education and informationArticle 19Research and monitoring(1) The Contracting Parties shall cooperate closely to promote and harmonise research projects and systematic monitoring programmes which are conducive to achieving the objectives of this Protocol.(2) The Contracting Parties shall ensure that the national results of the research and systematic observation are integrated in a joint permanent observation and information system and that they are made accessible to the public under the existing institutional framework.(3) The Contracting Parties agree to coordinate their Alpine-specific research projects on soil conservation while taking into account other national and international research developments, and to envisage joint research activities.(4) Special attention shall be given to evaluations of soil sensitivity regarding diverse human activities, to assessments of the regenerative capacity of soils, and to the examination of the most suitable pertinent technologies.Article 20Establishment of harmonised databases(1) The Contracting Parties agree to create comparable databases (soil parameters, sampling, analysis, evaluation) within the framework of the Alpine monitoring and information system, and to establish possibilities for data exchange.(2) The Contracting Parties shall reach agreement about soil-endangering substances which require priority treatment, and they shall strive for comparable evaluation parameters.(3) The Contracting Parties shall strive to establish representative records of the condition of Alpine soils taking into account the geological and hydrogeological situation, on the basis of identical evaluation systems and harmonised methods.Article 21Establishment of permanent monitoring areas and coordination of environmental monitoring(1) The Contracting Parties undertake to establish permanent monitoring areas in the Alpine region and to integrate them in an Alpine-wide soil monitoring network.(2) The Contracting Parties agree to coordinate their national soil monitoring programmes with the environmental monitoring programmes for air, water, flora and fauna.(3) Within the framework of their monitoring programmes, the Contracting Parties shall establish soil sample databases according to comparable parameters.Article 22Education and informationThe Contracting Parties shall promote the education and further training as well as the information of the public regarding the objectives, measures and implementation of this Protocol.Chapter IVImplementation, monitoring and evaluationArticle 23ImplementationThe Contracting Parties undertake to ensure the implementation of this Protocol by taking any appropriate measures within the existing institutional framework.Article 24Monitoring of compliance with obligations(1) The Contracting Parties shall regularly report to the Standing Committee on measures taken under this Protocol. The reports shall also cover the effectiveness of the measures taken. The Alpine Conference shall determine the intervals at which the reports must be submitted.(2) The Standing Committee shall examine these reports in order to ensure that the Contracting Parties have fulfilled their obligations under this Protocol. It may also ask for additional information from the Contracting Parties concerned or have recourse to other information sources.(3) The Standing Committee shall draw up a report on the compliance of the Contracting Parties with the obligations arising from the Protocol, for the attention of the Alpine Conference.(4) The Alpine Conference shall take note of this report. If it finds that obligations have not been met, it may adopt recommendations.Article 25Evaluation of the effectiveness of the provisions(1) The Contracting Parties shall regularly examine and evaluate the effectiveness of the provisions of this Protocol. They shall consider the adoption of appropriate amendments to this Protocol where necessary in order to achieve objectives.(2) The regional and local authorities shall be associated with this evaluation within the existing institutional framework. Non-governmental organisations active in this field may be consulted.Chapter VFinal provisionsArticle 26Links between the Alpine Convention and the Protocol(1) This Protocol constitutes a Protocol to the Alpine Convention within the meaning of Article 2 thereof and any other relevant articles of the Convention.(2) Only Contracting Parties to the Alpine Convention may become a party to this Protocol. Any denunciation of the Alpine Convention also implies denunciation of this Protocol.(3) Where the Alpine Conference discusses matters relating to this Protocol, only the Contracting Parties to this Protocol may take part in the vote.Article 27Signature and ratification(1) This Protocol shall be open for signature by the Signatory States of the Alpine Convention and the European Union on 16 October 1998 and from 16 November 1998 in the Republic of Austria as the depositary.(2) This Protocol shall enter into force for the Contracting Parties which have expressed their agreement to be bound by the said Protocol three months after the date on which three States have deposited their instrument of ratification, acceptance or approval.(3) For Parties which express their agreement to be bound by the Protocol at a later date, the Protocol shall enter into force three months after the date of deposit of the instrument of ratification, acceptance or approval. After the entry into force of an amendment to the Protocol, any new Contracting Party to the said Protocol shall become a Contracting Party to the Protocol, as amended.Article 28NotificationsThe depositary shall, in respect of this Protocol, notify each State referred to in the Preamble and the European Community ofa) any signature,b) the deposit of any instrument of ratification, acceptance or approval,c) any date of entry into force,d) any declaration made by a Contracting Party or signatory,e) any denunciation notified by a Contracting Party, including the date on which it becomes effective.In witness whereof the undersigned, being duly authorised thereto, have signed this Protocol.Done at Bled on 16 October 1998 in the French, German, Italian and Slovene languages, the four texts being equally authentic, the original text being deposited in the Austrian State archives. The depositary shall send a certified copy to each of the signatory States.PROTOCOLON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE 1991 ALPINE CONVENTIONIN THE FIELD OF ENERGYENERGY PROTOCOLPreambleThe Federal Republic of Germany,The Republic of Austria,The French Republic,The Italian Republic,The Principality of Liechtenstein,The Principality of Monaco,The Republic of Slovenia,The Swiss Confederation,andThe European Community,In accordance with their task, arising from the Convention on the Protection of the Alps (Alpine Convention) of 7 November 1991, of pursuing a comprehensive policy for the protection and the sustainable development of the Alpine region;In compliance with their obligations under Article 2(2) and (3) of the Alpine Convention;Conscious of the importance of establishing forms of energy production, distribution and use which are not harmful to nature and the countryside, which are environmentally friendly and compatible with the promotion of energy-saving measures;Taking account of the need to reduce greenhouse gases in the Alpine region and thereby comply with commitments under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change;Convinced of the need to harmonise economic interests and ecological requirements;Conscious that the Alpine region is of particular importance in Europe and that, in terms of geomorphology, its climate, water, vegetation, fauna, countryside and culture, this is a heritage as unique as it is diverse, and that the region’s high mountains, valleys and the Pre-Alps are environmental entities which all States, not just Alpine ones, have a duty to protect;Conscious that the Alps are more than where the local population live and work but are also very important to extra-Alpine regions, in particular because it is a transit region with a high level of trans-European traffic of people and goods, but also international energy distribution networks;Taking account of the environmental sensitivity of the Alpine region, particularly concerning production, transport and energy-use activities which interact with the key aspects of nature protection, town and country planning and land use;Taking account of the fact that, faced with risks to environmental protection, in particular due to possible climate change caused by humans, it has become necessary to pay particular attention to the close links between mankind’s social and economic activities and the conservation of ecosystems which require, especially in the Alpine region, appropriate and diversified measures to be adopted in agreement with the local population, political institutions and economic and social organisations;Convinced that the local population must be able to define its own social, cultural and economic development plan and take part in its implementation in the existing institutional framework;Convinced that certain problems can only be resolved in a cross-border framework and require joint measures on the part of the Alpine States and the local communities directly concerned;Convinced that meeting energy needs is an important factor in economic and social development, both within and outside the Alpine region;Conscious of the extent of the use and further development of economic instruments which could enable the actual costs to be better taken into account when calculating energy prices;Convinced that the Alpine region will make a long-term contribution to meeting Europe’s energy needs and that it must itself have, apart from sufficient drinking water, sufficient energy resources to improve local living conditions and economic productivity;Convinced that the Alpine region plays a particularly important role in the interconnection of European countries’ energy systems;Convinced that, in the Alpine region, measures aimed at rational energy use and sustainable use of water and wood resources contribute towards meeting national energy needs and that it is increasingly important to make use of biomass and solar energy;Have agreed as follows:Chapter IGeneral provisionsArticle 1ObjectivesThe Contracting Parties shall commit themselves to creating framework conditions and adopting measures for energy saving, production, transport, distribution and utilisation within the territorial scope of the Alpine Convention in order to establish sustainable development in the energy sector which is compatible with the Alpine region’s specific tolerance limits. In so doing the Contracting Parties will make an important contribution to protecting local communities and the environment and to safeguarding resources and the climate.Article 2Basic commitments(1) In accordance with this Protocol, the Contracting Parties shall:a) harmonise their energy-saving plans with their plans for the general development of the Alpine region;b) adapt production, transport and energy distribution systems in order to make optimal overall use of the infrastructure system in the Alpine region, taking account of the need for environmental protection;c) limit the impact of energy on the environment by optimising the provision of services to energy end-users through, amongst other things and as far as possible, adopting the following measures:-  reducing energy needs through the use of more efficient technologies;-  making wider use of renewable energy sources to meet remaining energy needs;-  optimising existing plants which produce energy from non-renewable sources;d) limit the negative effects of power plants on the environment and the landscape, including those concerning the management of waste produced by them, by adopting preventive measures for the new plants and, if necessary, improving existing ones;(2) In the event of the construction of new, large power plants and a significant increase in the capacity of existing ones, the Contracting Parties, in accordance with current law, shall proceed to evaluate the impact on the Alpine environment and to evaluate the territorial and socio-economic effects of this in accordance with Article 12. The Parties shall recognise the right to consultation at international level on projects with cross-border effects.(3) The Contracting Parties shall take account in their energy policies of the fact that the Alpine region lends itself to using renewable energy sources and shall encourage mutual collaboration in development programmes in this area.(4) The Contracting Parties shall preserve protected areas and their buffer zones, other protected and quiet zones as well as areas of unspoilt nature and countryside; they shall optimise energy infrastructures according to the different levels of vulnerability, tolerance and the ongoing deterioration of the Alpine ecosystem.(5) The Contracting Parties should be aware that an appropriate research and development policy instigating preventive and improving measures can make a significant contribution to protecting the Alps from the impact of energy infrastructures on the environment. They shall encourage research and development activities on this subject and shall exchange the main results.(6) The Contracting Parties shall cooperate with a view to developing methods for taking better account of the true costs in the field of energy.Article 3Conformity with international law and other policies(1) This Protocol shall be implemented in accordance with international legal standards, particularly those of the Alpine Convention and the Protocols drafted pursuant to it, and in accordance with current international agreements.(2) The Contracting Parties shall undertake to also take account of the aims of this Protocol in their other policies, particularly in the fields of town and country planning and regional development, transport, agriculture and forestry as well as tourism in order to avoid negative or conflicting effects in the Alpine region.Article 4Participation of regional and local authorities(1) Each Contracting Party shall define, within its institutional framework, the best level of coordination and cooperation between the institutions and regional authorities directly concerned so as to encourage solidarity of responsibility, in particular to exploit and develop synergies when applying energy policies in the Alpine region and implementing measures under them.(2) The regional and local authorities directly concerned shall be parties to the various stages of preparing and implementing these policies and measures, within their competence and within the existing institutional framework.(3) The Contracting Parties shall encourage international cooperation between the institutions directly concerned by the problems linked to energy and the environment so as to encourage an agreement on the solutions to common problems.Chapter IISpecific measuresArticle 5Energy saving and rational use(1) The Alpine region requires specific measures for saving, distributing and making rational use of energy. These measures must take account of:a) energy needs which are spread over vast areas and which vary greatly according to altitude, the season and the demands of tourism;b) the local availability of renewable energy resources;c) the particular impact of atmospheric immissions in basins and valleys due to their geomorphological configuration.(2) The Contracting Parties shall seek to make energy use more environmentally friendly and shall, as a priority, encourage energy saving and rational energy use, particularly concerning production processes, public services and large hotel complexes, as well as facilities for transport and sport and leisure activities.(3) They shall adopt measures and make provisions, particularly in the following areas:a) improving insulation in buildings and the efficiency of heating systems;b) optimising the performance of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems;c) periodic monitoring and reduction, where appropriate, of polluting emissions from thermal plants;d) saving energy through modern technological processes for energy use and conversion;e) individual calculation of the costs of heating and hot water;f) planning and promoting new buildings which use low-energy technologies;g) promoting and implementing municipal or local energy and climate projects in accordance with measures provided for in Article 2, paragraph 1.c;h) improving energy performance in buildings undergoing renovation and encouraging the use of environmentally-friendly heating systems.Article 6Renewable energy resources(1) The Contracting Parties shall undertake, within the limits of their financial resources, to promote and give preferential treatment to renewable energy resources which are environmentally friendly and do not harm the countryside.(2) They shall also encourage the use of decentralised plants for the use of renewable energy sources such as water, the sun and biomass.(3) The Contracting Parties shall encourage the use of renewable energy resources, even in combination with existing conventional supplies.(4) The Contracting Parties shall particularly encourage energy produced through the rational use of water and wood from sustainably managed mountain forests.Article 7Hydroelectric power(1) The Contracting Parties shall ensure that the ecological functions of watercourses and the integrity of the landscape are maintained through appropriate measures, such as establishing minimum flows, implementing standards for the reduction of artificial fluctuations in water level and shall guarantee animal migration in the case of new hydroelectric plants, and existing ones where possible.(2) The Contracting Parties may adopt measures aimed at improving the competitiveness of existing hydroelectric plants, subject to compliance with their safety and environmental standards.(3) They shall also undertake to protect water resources in areas reserved for drinking water, in protected areas and their buffer zones, other protected and quiet zones as well as areas of unspoilt nature and countryside.(4) The Contracting Parties shall recommend reopening disused hydroelectric plants rather than building new ones. The provision under paragraph (1) on the protection of aquatic ecosystems and other related systems shall also be applied to the reopening of existing hydroelectric plants.(5) The Contracting Parties may, in the framework of their national legislation, examine how they can make end-consumers of Alpine resources pay market-related prices, and the extent to which the local population can be fairly compensated for services supplied in the general interest.Article 8Energy from fossil fuels(1) The Contracting Parties shall ensure that the best available techniques are used in new thermal plants using fossil fuels to produce electricity or heat. The Contracting Parties shall limit emissions from existing plants in the Alpine region as far as possible through the use of appropriate technologies and/or fuel types.(2) The Contracting Parties shall examine the technical and economic feasibility and the environmental compatibility of replacing fossil fuel thermal plants with ones which use renewable energy sources or are decentralised.(3) The Contracting Parties shall adopt measures in favour of cogeneration in order for energy to be used more rationally.(4) In border regions, the Contracting Parties shall, as far as possible, harmonise and connect their emission and immission monitoring systems.Article 9Nuclear energy(1) The Contracting Parties shall undertake, within the framework of international conventions, to exchange comprehensive information on plants and other nuclear installations which have, or could have, consequences for the Alpine region, with the aim of ensuring the long-term protection of the health of the people, the flora and fauna, and their biocoenosis, habitat and interactions.(2) Furthermore, the Contracting Parties shall ensure the harmonisation and connection, as far as possible, of their systems for monitoring environmental radioactivity.Article 10Transport and energy distribution(1) The Contracting Parties shall continue to rationalise and optimise all existing infrastructures while taking account of requirements for environmental protection and especially the need to preserve very sensitive ecosystems and the landscape, while at the same time, where appropriate, taking steps to protect the local people and the Alpine environment.(2) When constructing electricity transmission lines and power stations linked to them, as well as oil and gas pipelines, including pumping stations and booster stations and plants which are very significant from an environmental point of view, the Contracting Parties shall implement all the necessary measures to avoid disturbance to the local people and the environment, including, if possible, the use of pre-existing facilities and grids.(3) Concerning electricity transmission lines, the Contracting Parties shall take particular account of the importance of protected areas and their buffer zones, other protected and quiet zones as well as areas of unspoilt nature and landscape, as well as birdlife.Article 11Renaturalisation and environmental engineeringThe Contracting Parties shall use pilot studies and environmental impact studies provided for under current legislation to establish arrangements for the restoration of aquatic locations and environments following the completion of public or private works in the energy field relating to the Alpine environment and ecosystems. This shall be done, as far as possible, by employing environmental engineering techniques.Article 12Environmental impact analysis(1) The Contracting Parties shall, in accordance with national legislation and international conventions and agreements, carry out an initial evaluation of the environmental impact of any planned power plant under Articles 7, 8, 9 and 10 of the present Protocol, and of any substantial change made to these plants.(2) The Contracting Parties shall recognise the advisability of adopting, as far as possible, the best available techniques so as to eliminate or limit environmental impact by making provision for the decommissioning of disused and non-environmentally friendly plants.Article 13Dialogue(1) The Contracting Parties shall undertake to consult one another prior to starting any project which may have cross-border effects.(2) For projects which may have cross-border effects, the Contracting Parties concerned must be able to present their comments in good time, and these will be taken into account when issuing permits.Article 14Further actionThe Contracting Parties may take further action than measures on energy and sustainable development set out in this Protocol.Chapter IIIResearch, training and informationArticle 15Research and observation(1) The Contracting Parties shall, in close collaboration and taking account of results already achieved at various national and international levels, encourage and harmonise research and systematic observation in order to achieve the targets set out in this Protocol; in particular concerning the methods and criteria for analysis and for evaluation of the impact on the environment and the climate, as well as specific technologies for saving and making rational use of energy in the Alpine region.(2) They shall also take account of the results of research in the process of defining and checking targets and energy policy measures as well as in their training and technical assistance activities at local level for the benefit of local people, economic operators and regional and local authorities.(3) The Contracting Parties shall ensure that the various national results of the research and systematic observation are integrated in a joint permanent observation and information system and that they are made accessible to the public under the existing institutional framework.Article 16Training and information(1) The Contracting Parties shall encourage basic and further training and the provision of information to the public about the objectives, measures and implementation of this Protocol.(2) They shall particularly encourage the further development of training, continuous training and technical assistance concerning energy, including protecting the environment, nature and the climate.Chapter IVImplementation, monitoring and evaluationArticle 17ImplementationThe Contracting Parties shall undertake to ensure the implementation of this Protocol by taking any appropriate measures within the existing institutional framework.Article 18Monitoring of compliance with obligations(1) The Contracting Parties shall regularly report to the Standing Committee on measures taken under this Protocol. The reports shall also cover the effectiveness of the measures taken. The Alpine Conference shall determine the intervals at which the reports must be submitted.(2) The Standing Committee shall examine these reports in order to ensure that the Contracting Parties have fulfilled their obligations under this Protocol. It may also ask for additional information from the Contracting Parties concerned or have recourse to other information sources.(3) The Standing Committee shall draw up a report on the compliance of the Contracting Parties with the obligations arising from the Protocol, for the attention of the Alpine Conference.(4) The Alpine Conference shall take note of this report. If it finds that obligations have not been met, it may adopt recommendations.Article 19Evaluation of the effectiveness of the provisions(1) The Contracting Parties shall regularly examine and evaluate the effectiveness of the provisions of this Protocol. They shall consider the adoption of appropriate amendments to this Protocol where necessary in order to achieve objectives.(2) The regional and local authorities shall be associated with this evaluation within the existing institutional framework. Non-governmental organisations active in this field may be consulted.Chapter VFinal provisionsArticle 20Links between the Alpine Convention and the Protocol(1) This Protocol constitutes a Protocol to the Alpine Convention within the meaning of Article 2 thereof and any other relevant articles of the Convention.(2) Only Contracting Parties to the Alpine Convention may become a party to this Protocol. Any denunciation of the Alpine Convention also implies denunciation of this Protocol.(3) Where the Alpine Conference discusses matters relating to this Protocol, only the Contracting Parties to this Protocol may take part in the vote.Article 21Signature and ratification(1) This Protocol shall be open for signature by the signatory States of the Alpine Convention and the European Community on 16 October 1998 and in the Republic of Austria, as the depositary, from 16 November 1998.(2) This Protocol shall enter into force for the Contracting Parties which have expressed their agreement to be bound by the said Protocol three months after the date on which three States have deposited their instrument of ratification, acceptance or approval.(3) For Parties which express their agreement to be bound by the Protocol at a later date, the Protocol shall enter into force three months after the date of deposit of the instrument of ratification, acceptance or approval. After the entry into force of an amendment to the Protocol, any new Contracting Party to the said Protocol shall become a Contracting Party to the Protocol, as amended.Article 22NotificationThe depositary shall, in respect of this Protocol, notify each State referred to in the Preamble and the European Community of:a) any signature,b) the deposit of any instrument of ratification, acceptance or approval,c) any date of entry into force,d) any declaration made by a Contracting Party or signatory,e) any denunciation notified by a Contracting Party, including the date on which it becomes effective.In witness whereof, the undersigned, being duly authorised thereto, have signed this Protocol.Done at Bled on 16 October 1998 in French, German, Italian, Slovenian, all four texts being equally binding, in one copy to be deposited in the Austrian State archives. The depositary shall send a certified copy to each of the signatory Parties.PROTOCOLON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ALPINE CONVENTION OF 1991IN THE FIELD OF TOURISMTOURISM PROTOCOLPreambleThe Federal Republic of Germany,The Republic of Austria,The French Republic,The Italian Republic,The Principality of Liechtenstein,The Principality of Monaco,The Republic of Slovenia,The Swiss Confederation,andThe European Community,In accordance with their task, arising from the Convention on the Protection of the Alps (Alpine Convention) of 7 November 1991, of pursuing a comprehensive policy for the protection and the sustainable development of the Alpine region;In compliance with their obligations under Article 2(2) and (3) of the Alpine Convention;Desiring to harmonise economic interests and ecological requirements, and establish sustainable development;Aware that the Alps are the living and economic environment for the local population;Convinced that the local population must be able to develop their own social, cultural and economic development plan, and take part in its implementation in the existing institutional framework;Considering that in our urban civilisation, there is an ever-growing need for varied tourism and leisure activities that are appropriate to today’s way of life;Considering that the Alps remain one of the most important areas for tourism and leisure in Europe due to the extensive range of leisure activities on offer, the rich variety of landscapes and the diversity of its ecosystems, and that protection of the Alpine region should go beyond national frameworks;Considering that for certain Contracting Parties, a significant proportion of their population live in the Alps, and that tourism in the Alpine region is of public interest given that it helps to maintain a permanent population;Considering that mountain tourism is facing competition in an increasingly globalised context and contributes significantly to the economic performance of the Alpine region;Considering that recent trends seem to be moving towards greater harmony between tourism and the environment; for customers, an increasing interest in attractive natural surroundings that are protected summer and winter alike, and for local decision makers, concern for making tourist destinations more environmentally-friendly;Considering that in the Alpine region, individual attention must be given to limitations to the ability of each location’s ecosystem to adapt, and each ecosystem must be appreciated for its specific features;Considering that natural and cultural heritage as well as the countryside constitute an essential part of tourism in the Alps;Aware that the Alpine States are characterised by natural, cultural, economic and institutional differences which have caused them to develop independently, giving rise to very varied tourist facilities which, far from becoming more standardised at international level should be a source of diverse but complementary tourist activities;Aware of the need for sustainable development in the tourist industry to be based on developing natural heritage and providing high-quality services, given that the majority of Alpine regions are dependent on tourism which also provides a livelihood for the local population;Aware that it is appropriate to encourage holidaymakers to respect nature, to give them a greater understanding of the people living and working in tourist destinations and to create the best conditions possible for them to truly discover the diversity of nature in the Alpine region;Aware that it is the responsibility of professional tourist organisations and regional and local authorities to put into place, within a defined framework for the Alpine region, means of improving production structures and their efficiency;Desiring to contribute to sustainable development in the Alps by encouraging environmentally-friendly tourism, which is also an essential basis for the standard of living and economy of the local people;Convinced that certain problems can only be resolved in a cross-border framework and require joint measures on the part of the Alpine States;Have agreed as follows:Chapter IGeneral provisionsArticle 1ObjectiveThe objective of this Protocol is to contribute to sustainable development in the Alpine region within the existing institutional framework, by encouraging environmentally-friendly tourism through specific measures and recommendations which take the interests of both the local population and tourists into account.Article 2International cooperation(1) The Contracting Parties undertake to eliminate barriers to international cooperation between regional and local authorities in the Alpine region, and to promote collaboration at the appropriate territorial level in order to solve common problems.(2) The Contracting Parties shall encourage stronger international cooperation between the relevant competent bodies. They shall ensure, in particular, the development of cross-border areas by coordinating environmentally-friendly tourist and leisure activities.(3) When local and regional authorities are unable to implement measures because they are a matter of national or international competence, they must be given the opportunity to effectively represent the interests of the population.Article 3Taking account of the objectives in other policiesThe Contracting Parties undertake to take account of the objectives of this Protocol in their other policies as well, in particular in the fields of regional planning, transport, agriculture, forestry, protection of the environment and nature, and water and energy supplies, with a view to reducing any negative or contradictory effects.Article 4Participation of regional and local authorities(1) Each Contracting Party shall define, within its institutional framework, the best level of coordination and cooperation between the institutions and regional authorities directly concerned so as to encourage solidarity of responsibility, in particular to exploit and develop synergies when applying tourism policies and implementing measures under them.(2) The regional and local authorities directly concerned shall be parties to the various stages of preparing and implementing these policies and measures, within the framework of their competence, within the existing institutional framework.Chapter IISpecific measuresArticle 5Managing tourism(1) The Contracting Parties undertake to combine sustainable development with environmentally-friendly tourism. To this end, they shall support the preparation and implementation of guidelines, development programmes and sectoral plans which take the objectives of this Protocol into account and which are initiated by the competent bodies at the most appropriate level.(2) These measures will allow the advantages and disadvantages of planned developments to be evaluated and compared, in particular in terms of:a) the socio-economic consequences for the local population;b) the consequences for soil, water, the air, natural balances and the countryside, taking into account specific ecological data, natural resources and limitations to the ability of ecosystems to adapt;c) the consequences for public finances.Article 6Guidelines for developing tourism(1) The Contracting Parties shall, when developing tourism, take account of issues such as the conservation of nature and the countryside. They undertake to promote, as far as possible, projects which enhance the countryside and are environmentally acceptable.(2) They shall adopt a sustainable policy to make environmentally-friendly tourism in the Alps more competitive, and by doing so shall make an important contribution to the socio-economic development of the Alpine region. Priority shall be given to measures promoting innovation and diversity in tourism.(3) The Contracting Parties shall ensure that in areas attracting high numbers of tourists, a balance is struck between intensive and extensive forms of tourism.(4) When incentives are established, the following requirements should be met:a) for intensive tourism, the adaptation of existing tourist facilities and equipment to meet ecological requirements, and the development of new facilities conforming to the objectives of this Protocol;b) for extensive tourism, the continuation or development of environmentally-friendly tourism, and the promotion of the natural and cultural heritage of tourist areas.Article 7Research on quality(1) The Contracting Parties shall adopt a policy of permanent and systematic research on the quality of tourism across the whole of the Alpine region, taking ecological requirements into account.(2) They shall encourage the exchange of experiences and the implementation of joint action plans, pursuing qualitative improvements particularly in:a) the development of amenities in the countryside and natural areas;b) urban development and architecture (new buildings and village restoration);c) accommodation and range of tourist services;d) diversity in tourism for the Alpine region, promoting cultural activities in the various areas concerned.Article 8Controlling tourists flowsThe Contracting Parties shall encourage the control of tourist flows, particularly in protected areas, organising a way to evenly disperse and accommodate tourists in order to guarantee the sustainability of these areas.Article 9Natural limitations to developmentThe Contracting Parties shall ensure that tourism development is adapted to the specific environment and available resources of the area or region concerned. It is appropriate to establish prior assessment for projects likely to have a marked impact on the environment, within the existing institutional framework, which will be taken into account when decisions are made.Article 10Quiet areasThe Contracting Parties undertake, in accordance with their laws and ecological criteria, to establish designated quiet areas where no tourist facilities will be developed.Article 11Accommodation policyThe Contracting Parties shall develop accommodation policies, taking account of how little space is available and giving priority to commercial accommodation, restoring and using existing buildings, and modernising and improving the quality of existing accommodation.Article 12Ski lifts(1) The Contracting Parties undertake, within the framework of national authorisation procedures for ski lifts, to implement a policy that goes beyond economic and safety needs, responding to ecological requirements and the countryside.(2) Both new authorisations to operate ski lifts and concessions will be subject to disused ski lifts being dismantled and removed, and areas no longer in use being returned to nature, giving priority to plant species native to the area.Article 13Tourist traffic and transport(1) The Contracting Parties shall encourage measures to reduce dependence on motorised vehicles in tourist resorts.(2) Furthermore, they shall promote both private and public initiatives to improve access by public transport to resorts and tourist areas, and shall encourage tourists to use these services.Article 14Specific development techniques1. Ski slopes(1) The Contracting Parties shall ensure that the development, maintenance and use of ski slopes blend into the natural surroundings as much as possible, taking account of natural balances and biotope sensitivity.(2) Developments affecting the landscape shall be avoided as much as possible and, when natural conditions allow, developed areas should be replanted, giving priority to plant species native to the area.2. Artificial snow machinesNational legislation may authorise the use of artificial snow during cold seasons specific to each location, particularly to make exposed areas safer and if the location’s hydrological, climatic and ecological conditions allow.Article 15Sporting activities(1) The Contracting Parties undertake to define a policy for controlling outdoor sporting activities, especially in protected areas, in order to avoid causing damage to the environment. This control may mean prohibiting a particular activity, if necessary.(2) The Contracting Parties undertake to limit as much as possible, and if necessary prohibit, sporting activities using motorised vehicles outside areas designated by competent bodies.Article 16Landing by airThe Contracting Parties undertake to limit as much as possible, and if necessary prohibit, landing by air outside of airfields for the purpose of sporting activities.Article 17Developing economically weak regions and local and regional authoritiesIt is recommended that the Contracting Parties examine solutions adapted to the appropriate territorial level to promote the balanced development of economically weak regions and local and regional authorities.Article 18Staggering holidays(1) The Contracting Parties shall endeavour to spread out the demand for tourist resorts more effectively, in terms of time and location.(2) To this end, it is appropriate to support cooperation between States on staggering holidays and experimenting with extending holiday seasons.Article 19Encouraging innovationIt is recommended that the Contracting Parties develop incentives to encourage the implementation of the objectives of this Protocol. To this end they will examine, in particular, the implementation of an Alpine competition with a view to rewarding innovative tourist initiatives and products which respect the objectives of this Protocol.Article 20Cooperation between tourism, agriculture, forestry and handicraftsThe Contracting Parties shall support cooperation between tourism, agriculture, forestry and handicrafts. They shall particularly encourage combinations of activities which generate employment in the context of sustainable development.Article 21Further measuresThe Contracting Parties may take further measures to promote sustainable tourism than the measures provided for in this Protocol.Chapter IIIResearch, training and informationArticle 22Re search and observation(1) The Contracting Parties shall encourage and harmonise, in close cooperation, research and systematic observation relevant to improving understanding of the relationship between tourism and the environment in the Alps, and analysing future developments.(2) The Contracting Parties shall ensure that the national results of the research and systematic observation are included in a common permanent observation and information system and that they are made accessible to the public under the existing institutional framework.(3) The Contracting Parties undertake to share information about their own experiences relevant to implementing the measures and recommendations in this Protocol and to gathering valuable information in terms of qualitative tourism development.Article 23Training and information(1) The Contracting Parties shall encourage basic and further training and the provision of information to the public about the objectives, measures and implementation of this Protocol.(2) It is recommended that the Contracting Parties include knowledge of nature and the environment in vocational training for jobs directly involving or linked to tourism. New types of training bringing tourism and the environment together could then be introduced. For example:-  "nature activity leaders",-  "resort quality assurance officers",-  "tourism assistants for the disabled".Chapter IVImplementation, monitoring and evaluationArticle 24ImplementationThe Contracting Parties undertake to ensure the implementation of this Protocol by taking any appropriate measures within the existing institutional framework.Article 25Monitoring compliance with obligations(1) The Contracting Parties shall regularly report to the Standing Committee on measures taken under this Protocol. The reports shall also cover the effectiveness of the measures taken. The Alpine Conference shall determine the intervals at which the reports must be submitted.(2) The Standing Committee shall examine these reports in order to ensure that the Contracting Parties have fulfilled their obligations under this Protocol. It may also ask for additional information from the Contracting Parties concerned or have recourse to other information sources.(3) The Standing Committee shall draw up a report on the compliance of the Contracting Parties with the obligations arising from the Protocol, for the attention of the Alpine Conference.(4) The Alpine Conference shall take note of this report. If it finds that obligations have not been met, it may adopt recommendations.Article 26Evalua tion of the effectiveness of the provisions(1) The Contracting Parties shall regularly examine and evaluate the effectiveness of the provisions of this Protocol. They shall consider the adoption of appropriate amendments to this Protocol where necessary in order to achieve objectives.(2) The regional and local authorities shall be associated with this evaluation within the existing institutional framework. Non-governmental organisations active in this field may be consulted.Chapter VFinal provisionsArticle 27Links between the Alpine Convention and the Protocol(1) This Protocol constitutes a Protocol to the Alpine Convention within the meaning of Article 2 thereof and any other relevant articles of the Convention.(2) Only Contracting Parties to the Alpine Convention may become a party to this Protocol. Any denunciation of the Alpine Convention also implies denunciation of this Protocol.(3) Where the Alpine Conference discusses matters relating to this Protocol, only the Contracting Parties to this Protocol may take part in the vote.Article 28Signature and ratification(1) This Protocol shall be open for signature by the signatory States of the Alpine Convention and the European Community on 16 October 1998 and in the Republic of Austria, as the depositary, from 16 November 1998.(2) This Protocol shall enter into force for the Contracting Parties which have expressed their agreement to be bound by the said Protocol three months after the date on which three States have deposited their instrument of ratification, acceptance or approval.(3) For Parties which express their agreement to be bound by the Protocol at a later date, the Protocol shall enter into force three months after the date of deposit of the instrument of ratification, acceptance or approval. After the entry into force of an amendment to the Protocol, any new Contracting Party to the said Protocol shall become a Contracting Party to the Protocol, as amended.Article 29NotificationThe depositary shall, in respect of this Protocol, notify each State referred to in the Preamble and the European Community ofa) any signature;b) the deposit of any instrument of ratification, acceptance or approval;c) any date of entry into force;d) any declaration made by a Contracting Party or signatory;e) any denunciation notified by a Contracting Party, including the date on which it becomes effective.In witness whereof, the undersigned, being duly authorised thereto, has signed this Protocol.Done at Bled, on 16 October 1998 in the German, French, Italian and Slovene languages, the four texts being equally authentic, the original text being deposited in the Austrian State archives. The depositary shall send a certified copy to each of the signatory States.[1] OJ L 242, 10.9.2002, p.1[2] OJ L 061, 12.03.1996, p.31[3] COM(2002)179 “Towards a thematic strategy for soil protection”.[4] OJ C 87E, 7.4.2004, p.395[5] Council „Environment“ on 25 June 2002.[6] OJ L 181, 4.7.1986, p.6[7] OJ L 242, 10.9.2002, p.1[8] COM(97)599 final „White Paper for a Community Strategy and Action Plan“; COM(02)321 final Final Paper on the Green Paper “Towards a European strategy for the security of energy supply””; OJ L 283, 27.10.2001, p.33ff. Directive 2001/77/EC on the promotion of electricity produced from renewable energy sources in the internal electricity market; OJ L 1, 4.1.2003, p.65ff., Directive 2002/91/EC on the energy performance of buildings; OJ L 176, 15.7.2003, p.29ff., Decision No 1230/2003/EC adopting a multiannual programme for action in the field of energy: “Intelligent Energy – Europe” (2003-2006).[9] COM(2003)716.[10] SEC(2004)24.[11] OJ L […], […], p.[12] OJ L 061, 12.03.1996, p.31[13] OJ L 242, 10.9.2002, p.1[14] OJ L 181, 4.7.1986, p.6

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Important legal notice

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52005PC0244

Proposal for a Council Decision on the signature of the Protocol on Soil Protection, the Protocol on Energy and the Protocol on Tourism to the Alpine Convention  /* COM/2005/0244 final */  

	[pic] | COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES |Brussels, 15.6.2005COM(2005) 259 finalCOMMUNICATION FROM THE COMMISSION TO THE COUNCIL AND THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENTThe 2005 UN Summit – Addressing the global challenges and making a success of the reformed UNCOMMUNICATION FROM THE COMMISSION TO THE COUNCIL AND THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENTThe 2005 UN Summit – Addressing the global challenges and making a success of the reformed UNThe UN Summit in New York on 14-16 September 2005 is an opportunity for the international community to agree on new, collective action and commitments addressing the main challenges of today’s world, as well as to strengthen the UN’s capacity and make it more efficient. The EU is firmly committed to effective multilateralism, as expressed in the European Security Strategy and the Commission’s Communication on “the European Union and the United Nations: the Choice of multilateralism”[1] of September 2003 and will live up to the expectations of the international community to make a strong contribution to the success of the UN Summit. The EU is actively engaged in fostering a concrete Summit outcome that matches its ambition to undertake substantive actions to support the full implementation of the Millennium Declaration and to better equip the United Nations to help face the challenges of the 21st century.The Commission’s proposals in the field of development on 12 April 2005, and the ambitious commitment made by the EU on the basis of these on 24 May 2005, constitute an important demonstration of the EU’s commitment to contributing to a successful Summit outcome. The EU is also contributing to advancing the agenda in other areas, including peacebuilding and human rights. The resolution adopted by the European Parliament on 9 June 2005 is a highly constructive contribution. The EU must also demonstrate its commitment to ensure the timely implementation of the Summit outcome, and show to partners how it intends to contribute effectively to that implementation, including through Community policies and instruments. In this Communication, the Commission would like to put forward action-oriented suggestions for EU positions and actions related to that Summit and its follow-up on a number of key issues, building on agreed EU positions.A HIGH LEVEL OF AMBITION FOR THE SUMMIT AND A FIRM COMMITMENT TO IMPLEMENTING THE SUMMIT OUTCOMEThe Commission expects to see as many clear and action-oriented decisions as possible to be taken at the Summit and to be implemented as soon as possible following the Summit. The draft outcome document presented by the President of the UN General Assembly H.E. Mr Jean Ping, on 3 June 2005[2] indicates in certain cases that further details relating to proposed decisions need to be worked out after the Summit. In that case, a clear timeframe should wherever possible be set for the process, and this should not put in danger any decisions taken at the Summit itself.The EU’s engagement in supporting action towards addressing the main challenges of today’s world and to UN reform will not end with the Summit itself. The EU should demonstrate its commitment to ensuring follow-up to and implementation of the Summit outcome. The EU should take a clear front-runner approach, in line with its engagement in favour of effective multilateralism.At this stage of the Summit preparations, not all of the issues to be addressed at the Summit could be covered in this Communication, which focuses only on some key issues for the EU where the Commission has a specific contribution to make. The resulting limitation of issues should therefore not imply that other issues on the Summit’s agenda not covered here are of lesser importance to the EU. The Communication also addresses already ideas for implementation, which should be seen as examples of how the follow-up to the Summit could be ensured.1. DEVELOPMENT: DELIVER ON INCREASING AID VOLUMES AND IMPROVING AID EFFICIENCY AND POLICY COHERENCEThe draft outcome document for the Summit tabled by the President of the General Assembly contains a number of positive recommendations in the field of development, which provide a good basis for a useful outcome in September. The EU hopes in particular that other countries will follow the example it has set in undertaking firm commitments to new and ambitious targets in the area of Financing for Development , in particular for Official Development Assistance (ODA), on the basis of the Monterrey Consensus and the Barcelona Commitments, on policy coherence and on a special focus on Africa . The new EU collective commitment for a GDP threshold of 0.56% by 2010 (which should translate into €20 billion more in official development assistance (ODA) per year as of 2010 compared to what is expected for 2006), and 0,7% by 2015 (which should result in €45 billion more per year as of that time), is an important step forward for international solidarity and a clear sign of the EU’s commitment to a successful Summit. Furthermore, the EU remains also committed to finding solutions, in cooperation with International Financial Institutions, to unsustainable debt burdens, and is committed to full implementation of the enhanced HIPC initiative. It will be vital to agree on the scope and modalities for further multilateral debt relief in order to secure the long term debt sustainability on a case by case approach.In addition to volume of aid, the EU has decided to pay particular attention to its quality and effectiveness and will work towards enhanced operational complementarity in aid delivery and further untying of aid. In its forthcoming proposal for a new EU development policy statement the Commission will propose how to ensure that the Summit outcome in relevant areas is taken into account..With the EU representing over 50% of world ODA and the European Community itself accounting for 10% of ODA, improving implementation is a key concern. The EU should advocate that the UN Summit is a good forum for stressing improved efficiency of aid. Since 2000, the Commission has been fully engaged in a process of management reform which has substantially improved the speed and quality of delivery of European Community external assistance. Major policy reform, strengthened strategic programming and evaluation, streamlined management structures, improved working methods and devolution of decision making to Delegations of the European Commission have been the hallmarks of this process. This has resulted in an external assistance programme which promotes co-ordination and fosters coherence at EU level.More finance and improved aid delivery are important instruments that complement the domestic efforts of developing countries, whose primary responsibility has been recognised by the Monterrey Consensus. To these efforts, which also focus strongly on the mobilisation of domestic financial resources for development, the EU has stressed the contribution of non-aid policies in attaining the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The EU has adopted a series of concrete commitments to increase policy coherence and to reconfirm the pro-development commitments in the non-aid policies.The EU recognises the centrality of the eight MDGs for poverty reduction and growth in all developing countries and reiterates its commitment to achieving all the goals. The EU should fully recognise the link between achieving the MDGs and fulfilling other existing commitments from major international conferences . As an example, a number of issues concerning sustainable development, sexual and reproductive health as well as employment and decent work merit being properly reflected in the outcome of the Summit.The Commission proposes that the EU expresses its readiness, in the context of the implementation of the Summit, to better align its development policy behind the priorities set by developing countries in their poverty reduction strategies in conformity with the MDGs. This would facilitate predictable additional funding and enhance the coordination and coherence of its development cooperation. The EU should also encourage the international donor community to make the necessary alignment.The specific poor situation of Africa and the bleak prospects for meeting the MDGs in that continent deserve special attention. In May the Council adopted – based on the Commission’s proposals – a series of commitments to assign a political priority to Africa and to accelerate the EU’s actions in a limited number of areas. The EU has confirmed that it will increase its financial assistance for Sub-Saharan Africa and will provide collectively at least 50% of the agreed increase of ODA resources to the continent. This would translate into €10 billion more per year as of 2010 and €22 billion more per year as of 2015. Scaling up support to Africa implies additional investments by donors and partner countries in good governance, inter-connectivity, food security, human, social and economic development, delivery of basic services and environmental sustainability. The Commission confirms its intention to put forward proposals by the autumn for a comprehensive and long-term EU Strategy for Africa, to be adopted by the European Council in December 2005.As regards the fight against communicable diseases, the EU has renewed and strengthened its commitment to confront HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis (TB) through external action in a new European Programme for Action (PfA) adopted by the Commission in April 2005[3]. This PfA will facilitate coordination and joint actions by the EU (EC and Member States). As requested by the Council in its Conclusions on the PfA, the Commission and Member States will draft a roadmap in order to increase the coherence and coordination of the EU efforts to confront HIV/AIDS, malaria and TB through EU external action. The PfA and the roadmap may also help to establish a link with the UN inter-agency strategy in the fight against these three diseases. In this context the EU should stress the need to pay particular attention to children from HIV/AIDS positive parents.The EU should also attach great importance to a successful outcome of the second phase of the World Summit on the Information Society to be held in Tunis in November 2005, as Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) play a key role in achieving the MDGs.2. TRADE AND DEVELOPMENT: MOBILIZE TRADE AS ENGINE FOR DEVELOPMENTThe EU should strongly emphasize the mobilisation of international trade as an engine for development , with a trade policy that supports other policy priorities such as development, poverty reduction, environmental protection and the promotion of decent work for all. A call by the Summit for rapid completion of the Doha Development Round, no later than in 2006, in a manner that fulfils this development promise should be welcomed. The EU has in May 2005[4] confirmed its strong commitment to ensuring a development-friendly, sustainable and ambitious outcome of the Doha Development Agenda that maximises development gains and thus contributes to the achievement of the MDGs. The EU will continue its efforts in this regard including in the context of the December 2005 WTO Ministerial in Hong Kong. An ambitious outcome would provide new market access opportunities for goods and services from developing countries and strong and development-friendly trade rules.The Commission recalls the commitment[5] to work towards the objective of duty- and quota-free market access for all LDC products and considers that developed countries should deliver on that commitment at the UN Summit.The Summit should also recognise the importance of additional funding to support developing countries’ own strategies for trade adjustment and integration into the multilateral system. The EU will also continue to assist developing countries in integrating trade into their national development strategies and in carrying out necessary domestic reforms. The EU will further improve its Generalised System of Preferences and Rules of Origin, for the benefit of developing countries.The Summit should also recognise and support the role of regional organisations and regional integration in a wide range of areas including trade, provided of course that they are compatible with WTO law. The EU will further enhance the promotion of regional integration as a valuable strategy for smooth and gradual integration of developing countries into the world economy, notably in the framework of Economic Partnership Agreements with the ACP countries.3. EMPLOYMENT AND SOCIAL ISSUES: ADDRESS THE SOCIAL DIMENSION OF GLOBALIZATIONThe Summit should reconfirm the commitment to the follow-up to the Copenhagen Summit, and in particular to the promotion of decent work for all (including the combat against child labour) should be taken into account in a global partnership for development and should be part of nationally owned development strategies. Decent work includes not only the promotion of full, productive employment, but also a range of other key elements such as core labour standards, conditions of work, gender equality, investment in human capital, social security, safety at work and social dialogue. It is necessary to recognise the importance of an integrated policy approach and policy coherence for development , and in this context to promote mutually reinforcing economic, employment, social and environmental policies at global, regional and national level.The EU is firmly committed to mobilise all its policies, including its trade, development and external relations policies and instruments, to promote decent work and better to address the chances and challenges of globalisation. In December 2004 the European Council underlined the importance of strengthening the social dimension of globalisation for it to bring maximum benefits for all, both men and women, based on the report of the World Commission on the Social Dimension on Globalisation and the Commission proposals[6]. To this end, the EU will cooperate with national authorities, social partners and civil society. It will promote efforts to ensure policy coherence between the international institutions and encourage the dialogue and cooperation between WTO, the Bretton Woods institutions and ILO.The EU further intends to enhance its support for fair trade as a tool for sustainable development and poverty eradication, and continues to promote the commitment of European companies to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as a relevant business contribution to sustainable development and to poverty reduction.4. GENDER EQUALITY THROUGH MAINSTREAMING AND SPECIFIC MEASURESGender equality is central to development and to the eradication of poverty, to peace and security, and human rights, and should be strongly reaffirmed and promoted through a combination of gender mainstreaming and specific measures in policies and programmes in all spheres of life. This should be taken into account in all partnerships and in national development strategies including in poverty reduction strategies. A gender balanced participation in decision making should be promoted, including in the bodies and agencies of the UN. A gender equality perspective should be fully reflected in the outcome of the UN Summit, and integrated in the follow up of all major UN Conferences in the economic, social and environmental field. This is the commitment taken by the EU at the 10th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action. The EU should aim for the Summit to reaffirm the commitment to the full exercise by women of all human rights as well as the readiness to efficiently combat trafficking of women as a part of trafficking of human beings. Specific emphasis should also be on the need to better address the issue of violence against women.The Commission will continue supporting initiatives on gender mainstreaming and specific measures in all areas of development cooperation. In that respect, the Commission has taken significant actions in relation to capacity building and training. An expanded capacity building program is planned for 2007-2009 and will focus on strengthening capacities of key stakeholders in partner countries. The Commission also supports specific initiatives on gender equality aiming at monitoring trends, reinforcing country dialogue and developing national strategic plans from a gender perspective.5. SUSTAIN OUR ENVIRONMENT AND PROTECT THE NATURAL RESOURCES BASE FOR DEVELOPMENTIf the Summit is to meet its ambition, the recognition of the importance of sustainable development and the protection of the natural resource base for development and poverty eradication should be a key feature in the outcome. Indeed, achievement of Millennium Development Goal 7, “environmental sustainability”, is essential if other MDGs on poverty, health or gender equality are to be met.For its part, the EU has played a leading role in fostering sustainable development and has made the links between sustainable development and poverty eradication part of a number of its policies. It remains strongly committed to meeting and sometimes exceeding global goals and targets for sustainable development, at home and internationally. It is tackling unsustainable consumption and production and working to decouple economic growth and environmental degradation[7]. It also developed its own Strategy for Sustainable Development, which it is now revising, with the aim to reinforce its international aspects.The EU is increasingly mainstreaming environment in its development policy and provides support to help developing countries taking up obligations in the context of Multilateral Environmental Agreements. In the context of its focus on Africa, the EU will strengthen its support to combat environmental degradation. It has promoted mechanisms to protect developing countries from hazardous substances and waste, ridding the world from its most harmful man-made substances.The EU will continue to promote a number of pro-poor environment-related initiatives and policies. The EU is, for example, the world’s largest provider of development assistance for water and sanitation . In particular, the EU Water Initiative and the ACP-EU Water Facility are tools built on partnership to contribute to international targets for drinking water and sanitation. In the field of energy , the EU launched the EU Energy Initiative for poverty eradication and sustainable development (EUEI) and approved an ACP-EU Energy Facility aimed to increase access to modern energy services, including sustainable use of biomass for household energy. The EU remains committed to increase the share of renewable energy in the energy mix and will work towards this aim together with its partners in the “Johannesburg Renewable Energy Coalition”.Among the issues to be addressed at the Summit, the Commission believes the following should receive particular attention:-  The global challenges of climate change require the widest possible cooperation by all countries and their participation in an effective, cost-efficient and appropriate international response in accordance with their common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities. The Summit should decide to undertake concerted global action to mitigate climate change and limit its negative consequences and to start formal discussions on a more inclusive international framework to combat climate change beyond 2012 at the Climate Change conference in Montreal in November/December 2005.The EU has reconfirmed its commitment to the Kyoto Protocol and is strengthening the integration of climate change into its development cooperation[8]. The EU also recognises the need for support for the adaptation efforts of developing countries, in particular those that are the poorest and worst-affected. The EU has started developing its medium and long-term strategies for winning the battle against climate change, inside the EU and together with the international community[9]. In support of this, the EU is engaging in an open dialogue with its international partners on the future development of the international climate change regime post-2012 and how it can support the sustainable development of developing countries.-  The WSSD targets on biodiversity are far from being fulfilled. According to the UN Millennium Ecosystem Assessment , "an unprecedented effort would be needed to achieve by 2010 a significant reduction in the rate of biodiversity loss". Preserving our biodiversity is key to achieving MDGs, notably those on poverty, water, health and environment. The Summit should therefore call upon all Governments to significantly strengthen efforts, individually and collectively, to implement the Convention on Biological Diversity and to achieve the Johannesburg commitment for a significant reduction of its rate of loss by 2010.For its part, the EU has pledged to stop the decline of biodiversity in Europe by 2010, and the Commission is proposing to review the EU Biodiversity Strategy to achieve this target. It will also increase earmarked funds for biodiversity and strengthen measures to mainstream biodiversity concerns in development assistance.-  Desertification often affects the most marginalised people in some of the poorest countries on earth. However, the UN Convention to Combat Desertification has so far not had its intended result. The Summit should call for greater attention to desertification in sectoral policies and strategies in order to accelerate implementation and should request the Parties to the Convention to set measurable targets at the national and regional level for achievement by 2015, with a global process for measuring progress.-  Sustainable resource use and governance of the oceans, a resource common to mankind, are essential to sustainable development. The EU supports the key contribution that the UN plays in Oceans management under the UNCLOS and the 2002 Johannesburg Plan of Implementation of the WSSD. The Commission has started the process of preparing a Green Paper to be adopted in the first half of 2006, constituting a first step towards an all-embracing Maritime Policy and addressing issues such as international ocean governance and the Law of the Sea, data exchange, research, maritime security, environmental protection, and the economic use of the ocean and its resources in a sustainable manner.6. STEP UP DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AND PREVENTIONThe vulnerability to natural disasters is a key concern, and the EU should support a commitment to establish at the Summit a worldwide early warning system for all natural hazards and to implement fully the outcome of the World Conference on Disaster Reduction held in Kobe in January 2005. It is essential that disaster preparedness and prevention is taken into account in MDG oriented strategies, poverty reduction strategy papers and national sustainable development strategies.The EU is committed to assisting the victims of such disasters, including those resulting from environmental degradation, whether they are within the affected country or have had to cross a national border to seekshelter, bearing in mind that global warming alone could put at risk 200 million people by 2050.The Commission has in addition outlined measures[10] to reinforce the EU’s disaster response capacity, stressing that the Hyogo Declaration and Framework for Action adopted at the World Conference on Disaster Reduction should be the starting point for the EU strategy to reinforce preventive measures, early warning and disaster preparedness. The EU should, inter alia, put particular emphasis on integrating disaster risk reduction into sustainable development policies and into programmes in countries that have been affected by disaster, and on the strengthening of institutions, mechanisms and capacities at all levels to build resilience to hazards and disaster preparedness (both inside and outside the EU).7. PEACE AND COLLECTIVE SECURITY: INCREASE THE EFFICIENCY OF THE SYSTEMThe Commission considers that it is important that the Summit outcome recognises the interlinkages between threats to security that know no boundaries (including poverty, armed conflicts, violence against civil populations – in particular women and children, weapons of mass destruction, terrorism, organised crime, environmental degradation and infectious diseases), as well as the need to address those threats preventively and in an integrated manner (including through development assistance to address root causes). The emergence of a new security consensus should be based on this recognition.7.1.1 PeacekeepingThe European Union has recently redoubled its efforts to strengthen international crisis management capabilities, including in the field of peacekeeping. This contribution is fully acknowledged by the draft outcome document. Recognizing the importance of including a regional approach to peacekeeping, the EU has established a Peace Facility, which can provide support to African peacekeeping capacities. The Commission will continue to contribute to the further development of EU crisis management capabilities.7.1.2. Peacebuilding CommissionA consensus on establishing a Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) is essential. Such a body would fill a clear gap in the UN system. The EU should support a broad mandate entailing a holistic approach to peacebuilding, i.e. covering the whole continuum from peace-keeping to longer-term development issues. In the stabilisation and development phase, strong focus needs to be given to the consolidation of sustainable peace and to preventing the reoccurrence of conflict. The Summit should decide on the creation of the PBC, as well as on the basic features of its mandate, its reporting links to the UN Security Council as well as to ECOSOC, the modalities pertaining to its composition, and a timeframe for when it becomes operational. The Summit should furthermore decide to establish a Peacebuilding Support Office, and could also decide to set up a multi-year standing fund for peacebuilding (the modalities of which could be worked out after the Summit). The Commission proposes that the EU supports the deadline of 31 December 2005 for setting up the Peacebuilding Commission, that has been proposed by the President of the General Assembly.The EU will certainly contribute actively to the future work of the Peacebuilding Commission, using European Community and CFSP instruments, in line with the European Security Strategy. The EU has already for many years been providing a substantial contribution to peacebuilding efforts around the world , including through European Community instruments under its external relations and development policies. In the following, elements related to the first pillar are highlighted.The EC is well placed to address post-conflict challenges given the financial amounts at its disposal and its all-embracing geographical coverage. It does so through a wide range of external assistance policy frameworks, through targeted economic measures (relief, rehabilitation, reconstruction and development), and through special programmes for human rights, gender equality, institution building, democratization and rule of law. Additionally, managing the trade policy of the biggest trading partner in the world, it can bring in trade related instruments which have played and can play a critical role in addressing post-conflict challenges.There are numerous examples in recent years of the European Community providing substantial assistance to peacebuilding activities globally, be it in Afghanistan, Iraq, Kosovo, DRC, Sudan, Ivory Coast, Liberia, to the African Union and three regional African organisations, in Central and Latin America, etc. The Commission will reflect on the lessons learned from these and other experiences and best practices, so as to contribute, in close cooperation with the High Representative/Secretary General, to the EU’s input into the deliberations at UN level on the creation and the workings of the Peacebuilding Commission.Given these experiences and its contributions to peacebuilding efforts around the globe, the European Community should fully participate in all meetings of the Peacebuilding Commission .7.1.3. SanctionsThe EU has consistently underlined its commitment to the prompt implementation of all UN Security Council sanctions . It should express its support to all efforts to enhance their effective implementation by the entire membership of the UN. The need to further enhance the effectiveness of targeted individual sanctions should be reflected in the Summit outcome, while seriously considering further improvement of listing and delisting procedures so as to ensure respect for fundamental rights. The EU should emphasize that the sustainability of targeted individual sanctions - which have emerged as an instrument of choice in many UNSC sanctions regimes, not least in the fight against terrorism - depends also on the respect of human rights and appropriate means to ensure such respect at UN level.7.1.4. Small arms and light weaponsThe accumulation and proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) continues to threaten international security, human safety, as well as socio-economic development. The Commission shares the analysis of the UN Secretary General[11]. This problem has a particularly negative influence on peace and sustainable development, especially in Africa. It is therefore important that the Summit agrees to develop a legally binding international instrument to regulate the marking, tracing and illicit brokering of small arms and light weapons. Consensus on such a convention should be reached by next year’s Review Conference on the Programme of Action. Leaders should also commit to expedite negotiations on an instrument on illicit brokering in the supply of arms. The Summit should also encourage negotiations on an International Arms Trade Treaty. The Summit should look for a better incorporation of actions aiming at the destruction of SALW surpluses into demobilisation, disarmament and reintegration (DDR) and development processes. The Commission underlines its firm support to the UN Firearms Protocol. There are several ongoing initiatives of EU Member States and Europol in the area of combating illicit trafficking of firearms that are likely to have an impact concerning conflict prevention and combating terrorism.Landmines continue to be one of the major threats to human security in many countries, in particular in post-conflict regions. Continued assistance to mine clearance and stockpile destruction as well as the promotion of the universal adherence to the Ottawa Convention should be ensured.7.1 5. Terrorism and organized crimeThe Summit outcome should endorse and commit to the implementation of the UN Secretary General’s proposal for a comprehensive UN strategy for the fight against terrorism . The Summit should also support the conclusion of a comprehensive convention on terrorism in the course of the 60th General Assembly, and not later than in June 2006 (as has been suggested by the President of the General Assembly). It is also of essence that the need to address the root causes of terrorism and the importance of fully respecting human rights in the fight against terrorism are recognized in the Summit outcome.The effective prevention and combating of terrorism requires us to work within our own countries and with our partners in the world. In addition to dialogues at political level, the EU is actively pursuing international co-operation on technical assistance to help countries implement UN Security Council resolution 1373 as well as assisting in capacity building and promoting the values of freedom, security and justice, the rule of law and good governance.The Commission also supports the development of multilateral approaches to combat organised crime , working to ensure comprehensive ratification and implementation of international instruments, such as the relevant UN Conventions, and the development of international standards and provisions developed in other fora such as the Council of Europe, G8, OSCE and OECD. The Commission and UNODC have enhanced their cooperation in combating organised crime and illicit drugs by signing a cooperation agreement[12].Transparency and good governance in the financial, tax and judicial areas are essential to address concerns linked to the fight against the financing of terrorism, the financing of organised crime, money laundering, corporate and financial fraud, tax fraud and tax avoidance, corruption and other malpractices. The EU should therefore encourage its partners to adopt the highest standards of transparency, exchange of information and cooperation among competent authorities.7.1.6. Environment and securityThe Commission shares the view that due to the interconnectedness of security, development and human rights, we must tackle the security concerns of all States and address in an integrated manner their economic, environmental and social dimensions. The link between the exploitation of natural resources (such as diamonds or timber) and conflict has emerged as a constant in some of the most brutal conflicts of recent times. The Summit should recognise the importance of the environment for global security and the threat that environmental degradation poses to security. The UN should fully integrate environmental issues at the programming and policy making level in conflict prevention, humanitarian assistance, peacebuilding and reconstruction activities. In addition, the Commission believes that further consideration should be given to:-  Strengthening the monitoring of scarce, degraded, valuable and/or transboundary environmental resources, especially in areas where they could lead to conflict or when their common management could lead to better neighbourly relations.-  As part of an effort to tackle root causes of conflict in a more systematic manner, setting up of a UN structure to examine the link between natural resources exploitation and conflict.-  Encouraging donor governments to work closely with commodity producing countries that face the risk of conflicts to enhance governance, transparency and traceability in key commodity sectors.The EU can contribute to the strengthened monitoring of natural resources, notably through the joint European Commission and European Space Agency initiative which aims to establish by 2008 a European capacity for global monitoring of environment and security (GMES).8. HUMAN RIGHTS, DEMOCRACY AND RULE OF LAW: IMPROVE THE SYSTEM PROMOTING THEIR REALIZATION8.1.1. Human rightsThe EU should fully support the replacement of the UN Commission on Human Rights (CHR) with a standing Human Rights Council (HRC) elected directly by the General Assembly. Given that membership of the HRC would imply a particular resolve to advance and protect human rights, prospective members should be expected to demonstrate a readiness to examine and improve their own human rights record. This might include the preparation of a presentation detailing, e.g. commitments to ratify and implement human rights treaties, fulfilment of reporting requirements to human rights treaty bodies, active co-operation with UN special mechanisms, and other domestic and international activities to promote and protect human rights.The HRC should retain the positive features of the current system, including the country and thematic special procedures. The proposed peer review system would, however, institute a distinct and novel role for the new body. All UN Member States should be susceptible to the process and all human rights should be encompassed by it. The levels of ratification of key human rights instruments vary widely, and the system should therefore not be based solely on fulfilment of human rights obligations as ratified by particular States under scrutiny, but should also measure progress against a wider range of human rights standards.There would, however, need to be a clear perspective as to where such a review might lead. This could be recommendations for improvement, possibly accompanied by technical assistance, but also critical censure. The HRC should in any case be able to draw, at any time, attention to sudden and significant deteriorations of the human rights situation in a particular country. This “alarm function” would be an important task for the HRC; another would be to support and monitor the integration of human rights into all activities of other UN organs, including of the Security Council and the Peacebuilding Commission.It is desirable that the new HRC is put into place as rapidly as possible following the UN Summit and the expected adoption of further details regarding its composition and functions at the 60th session of the GA. The implications for the process of finalising arrangements for the new HRC on the 60th UN General Assembly’s Third Committee and the 62nd Session of the CHR should be taken into immediate consideration by the EU. In order to secure the effective participation of States in the peer review process a clear timetable for States’ participation in the review should be established well in advance. The EU could anticipate the logic of peer review – rooting co-operation on human rights in a sound assessment of the needs of particular country, with the active engagement of that country – in its reflections on possible action on country situations.An invigorated OHCHR is an indispensable supplementation to the creation of the HRC, including the greater emphasis which would be placed on co-operation with States to fulfil their human rights commitments. The EU’s support for the OHCHR should translate into sustained efforts to ensure that the OHCHR is well-placed to realise the transformation envisaged in the Plan of Action which was submitted to the UN Secretary-General in May 2005. The EU should ensure that its response takes into account the emphasis placed on greater country-level engagement in the Plan, which articulates well with the EU’s own process of vesting country-level operations with greater responsibilities. In addition to continuing efforts to improve donor co-ordination, this should encapsulate improved policy co-operation. Regular roundtables drawing together EU Member States’ embassies, Delegations of the European Commission, UN and other key players could also be held and could help identify shared, local human rights priorities for more concerted action. The Commission will complement the efforts of the OHCHR, through provision of technical assistance aimed at promoting implementation of human rights standards worldwide.More generally, the EU should stress that respecting and protecting human rights - encompassing all civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights - are central to improve people's status and living conditions.8.1.2. Democracy FundThe proposed establishment of a Democracy Fund is a welcome initiative. The Commission recommends that the EU advocates for the Fund to operate on the basis of country requests. However it is important that civil society is supported through the Fund as well. The Fund should be available to promote all aspects of democratisation and not just the electoral field. Particular consideration should be given as to how the Democracy Fund could be used to promote dialogue on democratic values between peoples across cultural, religious and political divides.The necessary steps to define the arrangements regarding the operation of the Fund should be taken immediately after the conclusion of the Summit, with a view to the Fund becoming operational early 2006. The Commission will provide input to the EU’s contribution to the UN debate on the proposed Democracy Fund, and will ensure that its programmes and any new UN-led activities for promoting democracy are in complement to each other.The Commission has enjoyed for a number of years close partnership with the United Nations Electoral Assistance Division (UNEAD) and with UNDP in the electoral field. For example in the run up to the Presidential, Constituent Assembly and Kurdish elections in Iraq in January, 2005, the Commission provided experts to work within the United Nation's technical assistance team supporting the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq while at the same time providing more than €30 million to a trust fund, managed by the United Nations in support of the running of the elections themselves. The Commission has also worked closely with the UN in electoral matters in many parts of the world including Afghanistan, Guinea Bissau, Lebanon, Nigeria and Indonesia. The Commission is ready to work closely with the Fund as part of the EU’s wider co-operation in support of democratisation.8.1.3. Responsibility to protectThe EU should support the concept of the responsibility to protect and make sure that this concept is translated into meaningful commitments and action on the part of States, including making full use of the International Criminal Court. The Summit should endorse the concept of the responsibility to protect. If the Summit decides to invite the General Assembly to continue the debate on the issue, such an invitation should be accompanied with a clear objective and timeframe (not beyond the 60th General Assembly).8.1.4. Human securityThe Commission reaffirms its commitment to promote human security as a means to empower people and address effectively insecurities. In this respect it will in particular support measures to protect children affected by armed conflict, not least with the aim to ban their misuse as soldiers.9. HUMANITARIAN AID: STRENGTHEN INTERNATIONAL CAPACITIESIN THE AREA OF humanitarian affairs , the EU should support efforts to strengthen the capacity of the humanitarian system to respond effectively and equitably to humanitarian crises. The EU should carefully examine the recommendations coming out of the “Humanitarian Response Review” initiative of the Emergency Relief Coordinator/USG for Humanitarian Affairs and should work together with the UN system to ensure that a concrete follow up is given. The EU should, through both its policy work and its action in the field, contribute to supporting the UN in upholding and protecting the humanitarian space and principles, to ensuring safe access to vulnerable populations, to pursuing more coherent financing, to improving local capacity in disaster-prone areas, as well as to the strengthening of the UN’s own internal co-ordination role and the leadership role of the humanitarian coordinator. Furthermore, the EU should work together with the UN to improve the acceptance of the Guiding Principles for Internally Displaced Persons as international norms for the protection of IDPs and for adoption of those principles through national legislation.10. STRENGTHENING THE UNITED NATIONS: REFORM THE INSTITUTIONAL SET-UP10.1.1. General AssemblyThe EU should underline its support to the revitalization of the General Assembly . There is a need to reinstate the political stature of the General Assembly, asserting its role as the main universal deliberative body and support Summit conclusions in this direction. The agenda of the General Assembly should focus more strongly on agreed global priorities of the UN and the principal current substantive issues . The EU should also support increased participation by civil society in the work of the UN, and the recommendations contained in the Cardoso Report.10.1.2. ECOSOCThe EU should express its support for ECOSOC reform , for it to becomemore operational. The Summit outcome should emphasize its role in all pillars of sustainable development, making sure that any reform of the ECOSOC and its activities are compatible and coherent with the reforms of the General Assembly and its committees. ECOSOC’s role as a bridge to other institutions, and in ensuring coherence, coordinated implementation and follow up to major UN conferences and summits needs to be reinforced in the fields of development and economic governance, as well as on other economic, environmental and social aspects.10.1.3. Security CouncilDiscussions should continue among the UN membership on comprehensive reform of the Security Council and how to make it broadly representative and more transparent. It is however in this context essential to ensure that the UN Security Council reform discussions do not hinder progress on other areas on the Summit agenda.10.1.4. Human Rights CouncilThe HRC may be established as a main charter body in due course but, given that this requires revision of the UN Charter, an interim solution could be adopted, with the HRC created as a subsidiary organ of the General Assembly (GA). The EU should also make sure that mechanisms for fully associating NGOs to the work of the HRC are set in place. As the review system of the HRC develops, successful engagement with it and with the special mechanisms might also be expected to enhance a State’s prospects for election to the HRC. The EU should explore the idea of this linkage further with other members of the Western Group and with other UN regional groups and should also seek to “lead by example”.10.1.5. UN SecretariatReform of the UN Secretariat is a crucial element for the implementation of UN reform. The EU should emphasize its support to the UN Secretary General’s reform efforts and its commitment to reviewing the functioning of the UN machinery for operational activities of the UN in accordance with the outcome of the Summit.10.1.6. UN system coherenceThe UN system of agencies, funds and programmes has been expanding over time in scale and scope of activities leading to significant duplication of mandates and actions between different bodies within the system. The EU should participate actively in efforts to improve the coherence and effectiveness of the UN system, particularly in its activities at country level. This improvement in coherence and coordination must also lead to better and more systematic cooperation with other partners, including the World Bank. Accordingly, UN agencies, funds and programmes should organise their technical activities at country level to effectively assist the countries to develop and implement the national poverty reduction strategies to reach the MDGs. To drive this process the role of the UNDP and UNDG guiding the UN country teams is crucial and should be strengthened, together with the coordinating role of the UN resident coordinator. The governing and executive boards of the agencies, funds and programmes should fully support this process and the EU should play a central role in this important part of the UN reform.Strengthening coherence is also central when creating new UN structures and bodies. In particular, the new Peacebuilding Commission and the Human Rights Council will need to be well integrated into the UN system, including by setting up effective links between each other.10.1.7. Environmental governanceImproved environmental governance at all levels is an important part of poverty reduction and the global security agenda. Immediate action is needed to review the mandate of UN agencies, funds and programmes in order to further integrate environment across the UN system. Partnerships between UN bodies should be encouraged wherever necessary.The Summit should adopt a clear decision to launch the process of developing a UN Environment Organisation , with a timeline for further steps. The Organisation should be built on UNEP with an integrated and updated mandate, based on stable, adaptable and predictable financial contributions, on equal footing with other UN specialised agencies. A UN Environment Organisation, with headquarters in Nairobi, would advance the environmental dimension of sustainable development in an integrated and coherent way and cooperate closely with the multilateral agencies to that end, each making optimal use of their comparative advantages.10.1.8. Relationship between the UN and regional organisationsThe Commission proposes that the EU should welcome the UN Secretary General’s intention to conclude agreements (or Memoranda of Understanding) between the UN and regional organisations , and should give due consideration to concluding such an agreement or Memorandum of Understanding with the UN in order to provide a general institutional framework to the cooperation, building on existing co-operation modalities As regards the strengthening of the capacity of regional organisations , the EU will increase its support to the capacity building of the African Union. It will support the implementation of reforms that the Africa Peer Review Mechanism will trigger and has invited the Commission to make concrete proposals. The EU will increase its support to the African Union and other Sub-Regional organisations in the field of peace and security, within the framework of the European action plan for peace and security in Africa and through the Peace Facility.CONCLUSIONAs the preparations for the Summit are stepped up and have received a critical momentum with the presentation of a draft outcome document, there is a clear potential for the EU, even strong expectations from many international partners, to play a leading role in the coming months to make this Summit a success and to translate its achievements into action. Based on its commitments in the field of development and its regular input to many important aspects of the debate, the EU should already at this stage be ready to look beyond the Summit and present a view on how to effectively implement the Summits results as well as how to swiftly solve remaining outstanding issues. In particular, in the Commission's view, the EU should continue to keep the ambition for the Summit high and to reach out to the other stakeholders in the reform debate, in particular other UN member states and civil society representatives, as well as to support to the best possible way the UN Secretary-General and his team, as well as the President of the GA in preparing a successful Summit. The EU has so far demonstrated its clear will to make an impact in order for the Summit to succeed. It will be up to the EU to stay the course so that others can follow this path.[1] COM(2003) 526, 10.9.2003; welcomed by the Council on 8 December 2003 and the European Council on 12 December 2003.[2] http://www.un.org/ga/president/59/draft_outcome.htm[3] COM(2005) 179.[4] General Affairs and External Relations Council, 23-24 May 2005.[5] LDC III, Brussels, May 2001.[6] COM(2004) 383, 18.5.2004.[7] An integrated Product Policy, building on the life-cycle approach to products, and an Environmental Technology Action Plan have been developed; upcoming initiatives include the Thematic Strategies on Sustainable Use of Natural Resources and on Prevention and Recycling of Waste.[8] “Climate Change in the context of Development Cooperation” - COM(2003) 85 - and the “Action Plan to accompany the EU Strategy on Climate Change in the Context of Development Cooperation - 2004-2008”, the General Affairs and External Relations Council, 22 November 2004.[9] “Winning the Battle Against Global Climate Change” - COM(2005) 35 - and European Council, , 25-26 March 2005.[10] COM(2005) 153 on reinforcing EU disaster and crisis response in third countries, and COM(2005) 137 on improving the Community Civil Protection Mechanism.[11] UN Secretary General’s “In Larger Freedom“ report, March 2005.[12] Exchange of letters, signed in January 2005.