Documento final da Conferência das Nações Unidas sobre Desenvolvimento Sustentável (Rio+20)
Autor: Marcello Chamusca (Portal RP-Bahia) | Publicado: 2012-06-19T20:04:00-07:00



THE
FUTURE WE WANT




I.
Our Common Vision




1.
We, the heads of State and Government and high level representatives,
having met at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 20-22 June 2012, with full
participation of civil society, renew our commitment to sustainable
development, and to ensure the promotion of economically, socially
and environmentally sustainable future for our planet and for present
and future generations.




2.
Eradicating poverty is the greatest global challenge facing the world
today and an indispensable requirement for sustainable development.
In this regard we are committed to free humanity from poverty and
hunger as a matter of urgency.




3.
We therefore acknowledge the need to further mainstream sustainable
development at all levels integrating economic, social and
environmental aspects and recognizing their interlinkages, so as to
achieve sustainable development in all its dimensions.




4.
We recognize that poverty eradication, changing unsustainable and
promoting sustainable patterns of consumption and production, and
protecting and managing the natural resource base of economic and
social development are the overarching objectives of and essential
requirements for sustainable development. We also reaffirm the need
to achieve sustainable development by: promoting sustained, inclusive
and equitable economic growth, creating greater opportunities for
all, reducing inequalities, raising basic standards of living;
fostering equitable social development and inclusion; and promoting
integrated and sustainable management of natural resources and
ecosystems that supports inter
alia
economic, social and human development while facilitating ecosystem
conservation, regeneration and restoration and resilience in the face
of new and emerging challenges.




5.
We reaffirm our commitment to making every effort to accelerate the
achievement of the internationally agreed development goals,
including the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by 2015.




6.
We recognize that people are at the center of sustainable development
and in this regard, we strive for a world which is just, equitable
and inclusive, and we commit to work together to promote sustained
and inclusive economic growth, social development, environmental
protection and thereby to benefit all.




7.
We reaffirm that we continue to be guided by the purposes and
principles of the Charter of the United Nations, and with full
respect for international law and its principles.




8.
We also reaffirm the importance of freedom, peace and security,
respect for all human rights, including the right to development and
the right to an adequate standard of living, including the right to
food, the rule of law, gender equality and women’s empowerment and
the overall commitment to just and democratic societies for
development.




9.
We reaffirm the importance of the Universal Declaration of Human
Rights, as well as other international instruments relating to human
rights and international law. We emphasize the responsibilities of
all States, in conformity with the Charter of the United Nations, to
respect, protect and promote human rights and fundamental freedoms
for all, without distinction of any kind to race, colour, sex,
language or religion, political or other opinion, national or social
origin, property, birth, disability or other status.




10.
We acknowledge that democracy, good governance and the rule of law,
at the national and international levels, as well as an enabling
environment are essential for sustainable development, including
sustained and inclusive economic growth, social development,
environmental protection and the eradication of poverty and hunger.
We reaffirm that to achieve our sustainable development goals. We
need institutions at all levels that are effective, transparent,
accountable and democratic.




11.
We reaffirm our commitment to strengthening international cooperation
to address the persistent challenges related to sustainable
development for all, in particular in developing countries. In this
regard, we reaffirm the need to achieve economic stability and
sustained economic growth, promotion of social equity, and protection
of the environment, while enhancing gender equality and women’s
empowerment, and equal opportunities for all, and the protection,
survival and development of children to their full potential,
including through education.




12.
We resolve to take urgent action to achieve sustainable development.
We therefore renew our commitment to sustainable development,
assessing the progress to date and the remaining gaps in the
implementation of the outcomes of the major summits on sustainable
development and addressing new and emerging challenges. We express
our determination to address the themes of the Conference, namely a
green economy in the context of sustainable development and poverty
eradication, and the institutional framework for sustainable
development.




13.
We recognize that people’s opportunities to influence their lives
and future, participate in decision making and voice their concerns
are fundamental for sustainable development. We underscore that
sustainable development requires concrete and urgent action. It can
only be achieved with a broad alliance of people, governments, civil
society and private sector, all working together to secure the future
we want for present and future generations.







II.
Renewing Political Commitment




A.
Reaffirming Rio principles and past action plans




14.
We recall the Stockholm Declaration of the United Nations Conference
on the Human Environment adopted at Stockholm on 16 June 1972.




15.
We reaffirm all the principles of the Rio Declaration on Environment
and Development, including, inter
alia,
the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, as set
out in Principle 7 of the Rio Declaration.




16.
We reaffirm our commitment to fully implement the Rio Declaration on
Environment and Development, Agenda 21, the Programme for the Further
Implementation of Agenda 21, the Plan of Implementation of the World
Summit on Sustainable Development (Johannesburg Declaration on
Sustainable Development and the Plan of Implementation) of the World
Summit on Sustainable Development, the Barbados Programme of Action
and the Mauritius Strategy for Implementation. We also reaffirm our
commitment to the full implementation of the Istanbul Programme of
Action for Least Developed Countries (IPOA), the Almaty Programme of
Action for Landlocked Developing Countries, the Political declaration
on Africa’s development needs, and the New Partnership for Africa’s
Development. We recall as well our commitments in the outcomes of all
the major United Nations conferences and summits in the economic,
social and environmental fields, including the UN Millennium
Declaration and the 2005 World Summit outcome, the Monterrey
Consensus and the Doha Declaration on Financing for Development, the
outcome document of the High-Level Plenary Meeting of the UN General
Assembly on the MDGs, the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development, the Key Actions for Further
Implementation of the Programme of Action, and the Beijing
Declaration and Platform for Action.




17.
We recognize the importance of the three Rio Conventions to advancing
sustainable development and in this regard we urge all Parties to
fully implement their commitments under the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Convention on Biological
Diversity (CBD) and the United Nations Convention to Combat
Desertification (UNCCD), in accordance with their respective
principles and provisions, as well as to take effective and concrete
actions and measures at all levels, and to enhance international
cooperation.




18.
We are determined to reinvigorate political will and to raise the
level of commitment by the international community to move the
sustainable development agenda forward, through the achievement of
the internationally agreed development goals including the Millennium
Development Goals. We further reaffirm our respective commitments to
other relevant internationally agreed goals in the economic, social
and environmental fields since 1992. We therefore resolve to take
concrete measures that accelerate implementation of sustainable
development commitments.




B.
Advancing Integration, Implementation, and Coherence: Assessing the
progress to date and the remaining gaps in the implementation of the
outcomes of the major summits on sustainable development and
addressing new and emerging challenges




19.
We recognize that the twenty years since the Earth Summit in 1992
have seen uneven progress, including in sustainable development and
poverty eradication. We emphasize the need to make progress in
implementing previous commitments. We also recognize the need to
accelerate progress in closing development gaps between developed and
developing countries, and to seize and create opportunities to
achieve sustainable development through economic growth and
diversification, social development and environment protection. To
this end, we underscore the continued need for an enabling
environment at the national and international levels, as well as
continued and strengthened international cooperation, particularly in
the areas of finance, debt, trade and technology transfer, as
mutually agreed, and innovation and entrepreneurship, capacity
building, transparency and accountability. We recognize the
diversification of actors and stakeholders engaged in the pursuit of
sustainable development. In this context, we affirm the continued
need for the full and effective participation of all countries, in
particular developing countries, in global decision making.




20.
We acknowledge that since 1992 there have been areas of insufficient
progress and setbacks in the integration of the three dimensions of
sustainable development, aggravated by multiple financial, economic,
food and energy crises, which have threatened the ability of all
countries, in particular developing countries, to achieve sustainable
development. In this regard, it is critical that we do not backtrack
from our commitment to the outcome of the Earth Summit. We also
recognize that one of the current major challenges for all countries,
particularly for developing countries, is the impact from the
multiple crises affecting the world today.




21.
We are deeply concerned that one in five people on this planet, or
over one billion people, still live in extreme poverty, and that one
in seven—or 14 percent—is undernourished, while public health
challenges including pandemics and epidemics remain omnipresent
threats. In this context, we note the ongoing discussions on human
security in the United Nations General Assembly. We acknowledge that
with the world’s population projected to exceed nine billion by
2050 with an estimated two thirds living in cities we need to
increase our efforts to achieve sustainable development and in
particular, the eradication of poverty and hunger and preventable
diseases.




22.
We recognize examples of progress in sustainable development at
regional, national, sub-national and local levels. We note that
efforts to achieve sustainable development have been reflected in
regional, national and sub-national policies and plans, and that
governments have strengthened their commitment to sustainable
development since the adoption of Agenda 21 through legislation and
institutions, and the development and implementation of
international, regional and sub-regional agreements and commitments.




23.
We reaffirm the importance of supporting developing countries in
their efforts to eradicate poverty and promote empowerment of the
poor and people in vulnerable situations including removing barriers
to opportunity and enhancing productive capacity, developing
sustainable agriculture, and promoting full and productive employment
and decent work for all, complemented by effective social policies,
including social protection floors, with a view to achieving the
internationally agreed development goals, including the MDGs.




24.
We express deep concern about the continuing high levels of
unemployment and underemployment, particularly among young people,
and note the need for sustainable development strategies to
proactively address youth employment at all levels. In this regard,
we recognize the need for a global strategy on youth and employment
building on the work of the International Labour Organization (ILO).




25.
We acknowledge that climate change is a cross-cutting and persistent
crisis and express our concern that the scale and gravity of the
negative impacts of climate change affect all countries and undermine
the ability of all countries, in particular, developing countries, to
achieve sustainable development and the MDGs and threaten the
viability and survival of nations. Therefore we underscore that
combatting climate change requires urgent and ambitious action, in
accordance with the principles and provisions of the UNFCCC.




26.
States are strongly urged to refrain from promulgating and applying
any unilateral economic, financial or trade measures not in
accordance with international law and the Charter of the United
Nations that impede the full achievement of economic and social
development, particularly in developing countries.




27.
We reiterate our commitment, expressed in the Johannesburg Plan of
Implementation (JPOI), in the World Summit Outcome of 2005 and the
MDGs Summit of 2010, to take further effective measures and actions,
in conformity with international law, to remove the obstacles to the
full realization of the right of self determination of peoples living
under colonial and foreign occupation, which continue to adversely
affect their economic and social development as well as their
environment and are incompatible with the dignity and worth of the
human person and must be combated and eliminated.




28.
We also reaffirm that in accordance with the Charter of the United
Nations, this shall not be construed as authorizing or encouraging
any action against the territorial integrity or political
independence of any State.




29.
We also resolve to take further effective measures and actions, in
conformity with international law, to remove obstacles and
constraints, strengthen support and meet the special needs of people
living in areas affected by complex humanitarian emergencies and in
areas affected by terrorism.




30.
We recognize that many people, especially the poor, depend directly
on ecosystems for their livelihoods, their economic, social and
physical well-being, and their cultural heritage. For this reason, it
is essential to generate decent jobs and incomes that decrease
disparities in standards of living to better meet people’s needs
and promote sustainable livelihoods and practices and the sustainable
use of natural resources and ecosystems.




31.
We emphasize that sustainable development must be inclusive and
people-centered, benefiting and involving all people, including youth
and children. We recognize that gender equality and women’s
empowerment are important for sustainable development and our common
future. We reaffirm our commitments to ensure women’s equal rights,
access and opportunities for participation and leadership in the
economy, society and political decision making.




32.
We recognize that each country faces specific challenges to achieve
sustainable development and we underscore the special challenges
facing the most vulnerable countries and in particular African
countries, least developed countries, landlocked developing
countries, and small island developing States (SIDS) as well as the
specific challenges facing the middle-income countries. Countries in
situations of conflict also need special attention.




33.
We reaffirm our commitment to take urgent and concrete action to
address the vulnerability of SIDS, including through the sustained
implementation of the Mauritius Strategy for the Further
Implementation of the Programme of Action for the Sustainable
Development of Small Island Developing States and Barbados Programme
of Action, and underscore the urgency of finding additional solutions
to the major challenges facing small island developing States in a
concerted manner so as to support them in sustaining momentum
realized in implementing the Barbados Programme of Action and
Mauritius Strategy for Implementation and achieving sustainable
development.




34.
We reaffirm that the Istanbul Programme of Action for the Least
Developed Countries for the Decade 2011-2020 outlines LDCs’
priorities for sustainable development and defines a framework for
renewed and strengthened global partnership to implement them. We
commit to assist LDCs with the implementation of the IPOA as well as
their efforts to achieve sustainable development.




35.
We recognize that more attention should be given to Africa and the
implementation of previously agreed commitments related to its
development needs that were made at major UN Summits and Conferences.
We note that aid to Africa has increased in recent years. However, it
still lags behind on commitments that were previously made. We
underscore the key priority for the international community of
supporting Africa’s sustainable development efforts. In this
regard, we recommit to fully implement the internationally agreed
commitments related to Africa’s development needs, particularly
those contained in the United Nations Millennium Declaration, the
Declaration on the New Partnership for Africa’s Development, the
Monterrey Consensus of the International Conference on Financing for
Development, the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation and the 2005
World Summit Outcome as well as the 2008 Political Declaration on
Africa’s development needs.




36.
We recognize the serious constraints to achieve sustainable
development in all its three dimensions in landlocked developing
countries. In this regard, we reaffirm our commitment to address
special development needs and the challenges faced by landlocked
developing countries through the full, timely and effective
implementation of the Almaty Programme of Action as contained in the
Declaration on the mid-term review.




37.
We recognize the progress made by middle-income countries in
improving the well-being of their people, as well as the specific
development challenges they face in their efforts to eradicate
poverty, reduce inequalities, and achieve their development goals,
including the MDGs, and to achieve sustainable development in a
comprehensive manner integrating the economic, social and
environmental dimensions. We reiterate that these efforts should be
adequately supported by the international community, through various
forms, taking into account the needs and the capacity to mobilize
domestic resources of these countries.




38.
We recognize the need for broader measures of progress to complement
GDP in order to better inform policy decisions, and in this regard,
we request the UN Statistical Commission in consultation with
relevant UN System entities and other relevant organizations to
launch a programme of work in this area building on existing
initiatives.




39.
We recognize that the planet Earth and its ecosystems are our home
and that Mother Earth is a common expression in a number of countries
and regions and we note that some countries recognize the rights of
nature in the context of the promotion of sustainable development. We
are convinced that in order to achieve a just balance among the
economic, social and environment needs of present and future
generations, it is necessary to promote harmony with nature.




40.
We call for holistic and integrated approaches to sustainable
development which will guide humanity to live in harmony with nature
and lead to efforts to restore the health and integrity of the
Earth's ecosystem.




41.
We acknowledge the natural and cultural diversity of the world and
recognize that all cultures and civilizations can contribute to
sustainable development.




C.
Engaging major groups and other stakeholders




42.
We reaffirm the key role of all levels of government and legislative
bodies in promoting sustainable development. We further acknowledge
efforts and progress made at the local and sub-national levels, and
recognize the important role that such authorities and communities
can play in implementing sustainable development, including by
engaging citizens and stakeholders, and providing them with relevant
information, as appropriate, on the three dimensions of sustainable
development. We further acknowledge the importance of involving all
relevant decision makers into planning and implementation of
sustainable development policies.




43.
We underscore that broad public participation and access to
information and judicial and administrative proceedings are essential
to the promotion of sustainable development. Sustainable development
requires the meaningful involvement and active participation of
regional, national and sub-national legislatures and judiciaries, and
all Major Groups: women, children and youth, indigenous peoples,
non-governmental organizations, local authorities, workers and trade
unions, business and industry, the scientific and technological
community, and farmers, as well as other stakeholders, including
local communities, volunteer groups and foundations, migrants,
families as well as older persons and persons with disabilities. In
this regard, we agree to work more closely with Major Groups and
other stakeholders and encourage their active participation, as
appropriate, in processes that contribute to decision making,
planning and implementation of policies and programmes for
sustainable development at all levels.




44.
We acknowledge the role of civil society and the importance of
enabling all members of civil society to be actively engaged in
sustainable development. We recognize that improved participation of
civil society depends upon, inter
alia,
strengthening access to information, building civil society capacity
as well as an enabling environment. We recognize that information and
communication technology (ICT) is facilitating the flow of
information between governments and the public. In this regard, it is
essential to work toward improved access to ICT, especially
broad-band network and services, and bridge the digital divide,
recognizing the contribution of international cooperation in this
regard.




45.
We underscore that women have a vital role to play in achieving
sustainable development. We recognize the leadership role of women
and we resolve to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment
and to ensure their full and effective participation in sustainable
development policies, programmes and decision-making at all levels.




46.
We acknowledge that the implementation of sustainable development
will depend on active engagement of both the public and private
sectors. We recognize that the active participation of the private
sector can contribute to the achievement of sustainable development,
including through the important tool of public-private partnerships.
We support national regulatory and policy frameworks that enable
business and industry to advance sustainable development initiatives
taking into account the importance of corporate social
responsibility. We call on the private sector to engage in
responsible business practices, such as those promoted by the UN
Global Compact.




47.
We acknowledge the importance of corporate sustainability reporting
and encourage companies, where appropriate, especially publicly
listed and large companies, to consider integrating sustainability
information into their reporting cycle. We encourage industry,
interested governments as well as relevant stakeholders with the
support of the UN system, as appropriate, to develop models for best
practice and facilitate action for the integration of sustainability
reporting, taking into account the experiences of already existing
frameworks, and paying particular attention to the needs of
developing countries, including for capacity building.




48.
We recognize the important contribution of the scientific and
technological community to sustainable development. We are committed
to working with and fostering collaboration among academic,
scientific and technological community, in particular in developing
countries, to close the technological gap between developing and
developed countries, strengthen the science-policy interface as well
as to foster international research collaboration on sustainable
development.




49.
We stress the importance of the participation of indigenous peoples
in the achievement of sustainable development. We also recognize the
importance of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
in the context of global, regional, national, and sub-national
implementation of sustainable development strategies.




50.
We stress the importance of the active participation of young people
in decision making processes as the issues we are addressing have a
deep impact on present and future generations, and as the
contribution of children and youth is vital to the achievement of
sustainable development. We also recognize the need to promote
intergenerational dialogue and solidarity by recognizing their views.




51.
We stress the importance of the participation of workers and trade
unions to the promotion of sustainable development. As the
representatives of working people, trade unions are important
partners in facilitating the achievement of sustainable development
in particular the social dimension. Information, education and
training on sustainability at all levels, including in the workplace,
are key to strengthening workers’ and trade unions’ capacity to
support sustainable development.




52.
We recognize that farmers, including small-scale farmers and fishers,
pastoralists and foresters, can make important contributions to
sustainable development through production activities that are
environmentally sound, enhance food security and the livelihood of
the poor, and invigorate production and sustained economic growth.




53.
We note the valuable contributions that non-governmental
organizations could and do make in promoting sustainable development
through their well-established and diverse experience, expertise and
capacity, especially in the area of analysis, sharing of information
and knowledge, promotion of dialogue and support of implementation of
sustainable development.




54.
We recognize the central role of the United Nations in advancing the
sustainable development agenda. We acknowledge as well, in this
regard, the contributions of other relevant international
organizations, including international financial institutions (IFIs)
and multilateral development banks and stress the importance of
cooperation among them and with the United Nations, within their
respective mandates, recognizing their role in mobilizing resources
for sustainable development.




55.
We commit ourselves to re-invigorating the global partnership for
sustainable development that we launched in Rio in 1992. We recognize
the need to impart new momentum to our cooperative pursuit of
sustainable development, and commit to work together with Major
Groups and other stakeholders in addressing implementation gaps.







III.
Green economy in the context of sustainable development and poverty
eradication




56.
We affirm that there are different approaches, visions, models and
tools available to each country, in accordance with its national
circumstances and priorities, to achieve sustainable development in
its three dimensions which is our overarching goal. In this regard,
we consider green economy in the context of sustainable development
and poverty eradication as one of the important tools available for
achieving sustainable development and that it could provide options
for policy making but should not be a rigid set of rules. We
emphasize that it should contribute to eradicating poverty as well as
sustained economic growth, enhancing social inclusion, improving
human welfare and creating opportunities for employment and decent
work for all, while maintaining the healthy functioning of the
Earth’s ecosystems.




57.
We affirm that policies for green economy in the context of
sustainable development and poverty eradication should be guided by
and in accordance with all the Rio principles, Agenda 21 and the
Johannesburg Plan of Implementation and contribute towards achieving
relevant internationally agreed development goals including the MDGs.




58.
We affirm that green economy policies in the context of sustainable
development and poverty eradication should:

(a)
be consistent with international law;

(b)
respect each country’s national sovereignty over their natural
resources taking into account its national circumstances, objectives,
responsibilities, priorities and policy space with regard to the
three dimensions of sustainable development;

(c)
be supported by an enabling environment and well-functioning
institutions at all levels with a leading role for governments and
with the participation of all relevant stakeholders, including civil
society;

(d)
promote sustained and inclusive economic growth, foster innovation
and provide opportunities, benefits and empowerment for all and
respect of all human rights;

(e)
take into account the needs of developing countries, particularly
those in special situations;

(f)
strengthen international cooperation, including the provision of
financial resources, capacity building and technology transfer to
developing countries;

(g)
effectively avoid unwarranted conditionalities on ODA and finance;

(h)
not constitute a means of arbitrary or unjustifiable discrimination
or a disguised restriction on international trade, avoid unilateral
actions to deal with environmental challenges outside the
jurisdiction of the importing country, and ensure that environmental
measures addressing trans-boundary or global environmental problems,
as far as possible, are based on an international consensus;

(i)
contribute to closing technology gaps between developed and
developing countries and reduce the technological dependence of
developing countries using all appropriate measures;

(j)
enhance the welfare of indigenous peoples and their communities,
other local and traditional communities, and ethnic minorities,
recognizing and supporting their identity, culture and interests and
avoid endangering their cultural heritage, practices and traditional
knowledge, preserving and respecting non-market approaches that
contribute to the eradication of poverty;

(k)
enhance the welfare of women, children, youth, persons with
disabilities, smallholder and subsistence farmers, fishers and those
working in small and medium enterprises, and improve the livelihoods
and empowerment of the poor and vulnerable groups in particular in
developing countries;

(l)
mobilize the full potential and ensure equal contribution of both
women and men;

(m)
promote productive activities in developing countries that contribute
to the eradication of poverty;

(n)
address the concern about inequalities and promote social inclusion,
including social protection floors;

(o)
promote sustainable consumption and production patterns; and

(p)
continue efforts to strive for inclusive, equitable development
approaches to overcome poverty and inequality.




59.
We view the implementation of green economy policies by countries
that seek to apply them for the transition towards sustainable
development as a common undertaking, and we recognize that each
country can choose an appropriate approach in accordance with
national sustainable development plans, strategies and priorities.




60.
We acknowledge that green economy in the context of sustainable
development and poverty eradication will enhance our ability to
manage natural resources sustainably and with lower negative
environmental impacts, increase resource efficiency and reduce waste.




61.
We recognize that urgent action on unsustainable patterns of
production and consumption where they occur remains fundamental in
addressing environmental sustainability, and promoting conservation
and sustainable use of biodiversity and ecosystems, regeneration of
natural resources, and the promotion of sustained, inclusive and
equitable global growth.




62.
We encourage each country to consider the implementation of green
economy policies in the context of sustainable development and
poverty eradication, in a manner that endeavours to drive sustained,
inclusive and equitable economic growth and job creation,
particularly for women, youth and the poor. In this respect, we note
the importance of ensuring that workers are equipped with the
necessary skills, including through education and capacity building,
and are provided with the necessary social and health protections. In
this regard, we encourage all stakeholders, including business and
industry to contribute, as appropriate. We invite governments to
improve knowledge and statistical capacity on job trends,
developments and constraints and integrate relevant data into
national statistics, with the support of relevant UN agencies within
their mandates.




63.
We recognise the importance of the evaluation of the range of social,
environmental and economic factors and encourage, where national
circumstances and conditions allow, their integration into decision
making. We acknowledge that it will be important to take into account
the opportunities and challenges, as well as the costs and benefits
of green economy policies in the context of sustainable development
and poverty eradication, using the best available scientific data and
analysis. We acknowledge that a mix of measures, including
regulatory, voluntary and others applied at the national level and
consistent with obligations under international agreements, could
promote green economy in the context of sustainable development and
poverty eradication. We reaffirm that social policies are vital to
promoting sustainable development.




64.
We acknowledge that involvement of all stakeholders and their
partnerships, networking and experience sharing at all levels could
help countries to learn from one another in identifying appropriate
sustainable development policies, including green economy policies.
We note the positive experiences in some countries, including in
developing countries, in adopting green economy policies in the
context of sustainable development and poverty eradication through an
inclusive approach and welcome the voluntary exchange of experiences
as well as capacity building in the different areas of sustainable
development.




65.
We recognize the power of communications technologies, including
connection technologies and innovative applications to promote
knowledge exchange, technical cooperation and capacity building for
sustainable development. These technologies and applications can
build capacity and enable the sharing of experiences and knowledge in
the different areas of sustainable development in an open and
transparent manner.




66.
Recognizing the importance of linking financing, technology, capacity
building and national needs for sustainable development policies,
including green economy in the context of sustainable development and
poverty eradication, we invite the UN System, in cooperation with
relevant donors and international organizations to coordinate and
provide information upon request on:

(a)
matching interested countries with the partners best suited to
provide requested support;

(b)
toolboxes and/or best practices in applying policies on green economy
in the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication at
all levels;

(c)
models or good examples of policies of green economy in the context
of sustainable development and poverty eradication;

(d)
methodologies for evaluation of policies of green economy in the
context of sustainable development and poverty eradication;

(e)
existing and emerging platforms that contribute in this regard.




67.
We underscore the importance of governments taking a leadership role
in developing policies and strategies through an inclusive and
transparent process. We also take note of the efforts of those
countries, including developing countries, that have already
initiated processes to prepare national green economy strategies and
policies in support of sustainable development.




68.
We invite relevant stakeholders, including the UN Regional
Commissions, UN organizations and bodies, other relevant
intergovernmental and regional organizations, international financial
institutions and major groups involved in sustainable development,
according to their respective mandates, to support developing
countries upon request to achieve sustainable development, including
through, inter
alia,
green economy policies in the context of sustainable development and
poverty eradication, in particular in least developed countries.




69.
We also invite business and industry as appropriate and in accordance
with national legislation to contribute to sustainable development
and to develop sustainability strategies that integrate, inter
alia,
green economy policies.




70.
We acknowledge the role of cooperatives and microenterprises in
contributing to social inclusion and poverty reduction in particular
in developing countries.




71.
We encourage existing and new partnerships, including public-private
partnerships, to mobilize public financing complemented by the
private sector, taking into account the interests of local and
indigenous communities when appropriate. In this regard, governments
should support initiatives for sustainable development, including
promoting the contribution of the private sector to support green
economy policies in the context of sustainable development and
poverty eradication.




72.
We recognize the critical role of technology as well as the
importance of promoting innovation, in particular in developing
countries. We invite governments, as appropriate, to create enabling
frameworks that foster environmentally sound technology, research and
development, and innovation, including in support of green economy in
the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication.




73.
We emphasize the importance of technology transfer to developing
countries and recall the provisions on technology transfer, finance,
access to information, and intellectual property rights as agreed in
the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation, in particular its call to
promote, facilitate and finance, as appropriate, access to and the
development, transfer and diffusion of environmentally sound
technologies and corresponding know-how, in particular to developing
countries, on favourable terms, including on concessional and
preferential terms, as mutually agreed. We also take note of the
further evolution of discussions and agreements on these issues since
the JPOI.




74.
We recognize that the efforts of developing countries that choose to
implement green economy policies in the context of sustainable
development and poverty eradication should be supported through
technical and technological assistance.







IV.
Institutional framework for sustainable development




A.
Strengthening the three dimensions of sustainable development




75.
We underscore the importance of a strengthened institutional
framework for sustainable development which responds coherently and
effectively to current and future challenges and efficiently bridges
gaps in the implementation of the sustainable development agenda. The
institutional framework for sustainable development should integrate
the three dimensions of sustainable development in a balanced manner
and enhance implementation by, inter
alia,
strengthening coherence, coordination, avoiding duplication of
efforts and reviewing progress in implementing sustainable
development. We also reaffirm that the framework should be inclusive,
transparent and effective and that it should find common solutions
related to global challenges to sustainable development.




76.
We recognize that effective governance at local, sub-national,
national, regional and global levels representing the voices and
interests of all is critical for advancing sustainable development.
The strengthening and reform of the institutional framework should
not be an end in itself, but a means to achieve sustainable
development. We recognize that an improved and more effective
institutional framework for sustainable development at the
international level should be consistent with Rio Principles, build
on Agenda 21, and Johannesburg Plan of Implementation and its
objectives on the institutional framework for sustainable
development, and contribute to the implementation of our commitments
in outcomes of UN conferences and summits in economic, social,
environmental and related fields and take into account national
priorities and the development strategies and priorities of
developing countries. We therefore resolve to strengthen the
institutional framework for sustainable development, which will,
inter
alia:

(a)
promote the balanced integration of the three dimensions of
sustainable development;

(b)
be based on an action- and result-oriented approach giving due regard
to all relevant cross-cutting issues with the aim to contribute to
the implementation of sustainable development;

(c)
underscore the importance of interlinkages among key issues and
challenges and the need for a systematic approach to them at all
relevant levels;

(d)
enhance coherence, reduce fragmentation and overlap and increase
effectiveness, efficiency and transparency, while reinforcing
coordination and cooperation;

(e)
promote full and effective participation of all countries in
decision-making processes;

(f)
engage high level political leaders, provide policy guidance, as well
as identify specific actions to promote effective implementation of
sustainable development, including through voluntary sharing of
experiences and lessons learned;

(g)
promote the science-policy interface through inclusive,
evidence-based and transparent scientific assessments, as well as
access to reliable, relevant and timely data in areas related to the
three dimensions of sustainable development, building on existing
mechanisms, as appropriate; in this regard, strengthen participation
of all countries in international sustainable development processes
and capacity building especially for developing countries, including
in conducting their own monitoring and assessments;

(h)
enhance the participation and effective engagement of civil society
and other relevant stakeholders in the relevant international fora
and in this regard promote transparency and broad public
participation and partnerships to implement sustainable development;

(i)
promote the review and stocktaking of progress in the implementation
of all sustainable development commitments, including commitments
related to means of implementation.




B.
Strengthening intergovernmental arrangements for sustainable
development




77.
We acknowledge the vital importance of an inclusive, transparent,
reformed and strengthened, and effective multilateral system in order
to better address the urgent global challenges of sustainable
development today, recognizing the universality and central role of
the United Nations, and reaffirming our commitment to promote and
strengthen the effectiveness and efficiency of the United Nations
system.




78.
We underscore the need to strengthen UN system-wide coherence and
coordination, while ensuring appropriate accountability to Member
States, by, inter
alia,
enhancing coherence in reporting and reinforcing cooperative efforts
under existing inter-agency mechanisms and strategies to advance the
integration of the three dimensions of sustainable development within
the United Nations system, including through exchange of information
among its agencies, funds and programmes, and also with the
international financial institutions and other relevant organizations
such as the World Trade Organization (WTO), within their respective
mandates.




79.
We emphasize the need for an improved and more effective
institutional framework for sustainable development that should: be
guided by the specific functions required and mandates involved;
address the shortcomings of the current system; take into account all
relevant implications; promote synergies and coherence; seek to avoid
duplication and eliminate unnecessary overlaps within the UN system;
and, reduce administrative burdens, and build on existing
arrangements.




General
Assembly




80.
We reaffirm the role and authority of the General Assembly on global
matters of concern to the international community, as set out in the
Charter.




81.
We further reaffirm the central position of the General Assembly as
the chief deliberative, policy-making and representative organ of the
United Nations. In this regard, we call for the General Assembly to
further integrate sustainable development as a key element of the
overarching framework for United Nations activities and adequately
address sustainable development in its agenda setting, including
through periodic high-level dialogues.




Economic
and Social Council




82.
We reaffirm that the Economic and Social Council is a principal body
for policy review, policy dialogue and recommendations on issues of
economic and social development and for the follow-up to the
Millennium Development Goals and a central mechanism for the
coordination of the United Nations system and supervision of the
Council’s subsidiary bodies, in particular its functional
commissions, and for promoting the implementation of Agenda 21 by
strengthening system-wide coherence and coordination. We also
reaffirm the major role the Council plays in the overall coordination
of funds, programmes and specialized agencies, ensuring coherence
among them and avoiding duplication of mandates and activities.




83.
We commit to strengthen ECOSOC within its Charter mandate, as a
principal organ in the integrated and coordinated follow-up of the
outcomes of all major UN Conferences and summits in the economic,
social, environmental and related fields, and recognize its key role
in achieving a balanced integration of the three dimensions of
sustainable development. We look forward to the Review of the
Implementation of General Assembly 61/16 on the Strengthening of
ECOSOC.




High
level political forum




84.
We decide to establish a universal intergovernmental high level
political forum, building on the strengths, experiences, resources
and inclusive participation modalities of the Commission on
Sustainable Development, and subsequently replacing the Commission.
The high level political forum shall follow up on the implementation
of sustainable development and should avoid overlap with existing
structures, bodies and entities in a cost-effective manner.




85.
The high level forum could:

(a)
provide political leadership, guidance, and recommendations for
sustainable development;

(b)
enhance integration of the three dimensions of sustainable
development in a holistic and cross-sectoral manner at all levels;

(c)
provide a dynamic platform for regular dialogue, and stocktaking and
agenda setting to advance sustainable development;

(d)
have a focused, dynamic and action-oriented agenda, ensuring the
appropriate consideration of new and emerging sustainable development
challenges;

(e)
follow up and review progress in the implementation of sustainable
development commitments contained in Agenda 21, Johannesburg Plan of
Implementation, Barbados Programme of Action, Mauritius Strategy for
Implementation and the outcome of this Conference and, as
appropriate, relevant outcomes of other UN summits and conferences,
including the outcome of the Fourth United Nations Conference on the
Least Developed Countries, as well as their respective means of
implementation;

(f)
encourage high-level system-wide participation of UN Agencies, funds
and programmes and invite to participate, as appropriate, other
relevant multilateral financial and trade institutions, treaty
bodies, within their respective mandates and in accordance with UN
rules and provisions;

(g)
improve cooperation and coordination within the UN system on
sustainable development programmes and policies;

(h)
promote transparency and implementation through further enhancing the
consultative role and participation of Major Groups and other
relevant stakeholders at the international level in order to better
make use of their expertise, while retaining the intergovernmental
nature of discussions;

(i)
promote the sharing of best practices and experiences relating to the
implementation of sustainable development, and on a voluntary basis,
facilitate sharing of experiences, including successes, challenges,
and lessons learnt;

(j)
promote system-wide coherence and coordination of sustainable
development policies;

(k)
strengthen the science-policy interface through review of
documentation bringing together dispersed information and
assessments, including in the form of a global sustainable
development report, building on existing assessments;

(l)
enhance evidence-based decision-making at all levels and contribute
to strengthen ongoing efforts of capacity building for data
collection and analysis in developing countries.




86.
We decide to launch an intergovernmental and open, transparent and
inclusive negotiation process under the General Assembly to define
the high level forum’s format and organizational aspects with the
aim of convening the first high level forum at the beginning of the
68th session of the General Assembly. We will also consider the need
for promoting intergenerational solidarity for the achievement of
sustainable development, taking into account the needs of future
generations, including by inviting the Secretary General to present a
report on this issue.




C.
Environmental pillar in the context of sustainable development




87.
We reaffirm the need to strengthen international environmental
governance within the context of the institutional framework for
sustainable development, in order to promote a balanced integration
of the economic, social and environmental dimensions of sustainable
development as well as coordination within the UN system.




88.
We are committed to strengthening the role of the United Nations
Environment Programme as the leading global environmental authority
that sets the global environmental agenda, that promotes the coherent
implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable
development within the United Nations system and that serves as an
authoritative advocate for the global environment. We reaffirm
resolution 2997 (XXVII) of 15 December 1972 which established UNEP
and other relevant resolutions that reinforce its mandate, as well as
the 1997 Nairobi and 2000 Malmö Ministerial Declarations. In this
regard, we invite the United Nations General Assembly, in its 67th
Session, to adopt a Resolution strengthening and upgrading UNEP in
the following manner:

(a)
Establish universal membership in the Governing Council of UNEP, as
well as other measures to strengthen its governance as well its
responsiveness and accountability to Member States;

(b)
Have secure, stable, adequate and increased financial resources from
the regular budget of the UN and voluntary contributions to fulfill
its mandate;

(c)
Enhance UNEP’s voice and ability to fulfill its coordination
mandate within the UN system by strengthening UNEP engagement in key
UN coordination bodies and empowering UNEP to lead efforts to
formulate UN system-wide strategies on the environment;

(d)
Promote a strong science-policy interface, building on existing
international instruments, assessments, panels and information
networks, including the Global Environmental Outlook, as one of the
processes aimed at bringing together information and assessment to
support informed decision-making;

(e)
Disseminate and share evidence-based environmental information and
raise public awareness on critical as well as emerging environmental
issues;

(f)
Provide capacity building to countries as well as support and
facilitate access to technology;

(g)
Progressively consolidate headquarters functions in Nairobi, as well
as strengthen its regional presence, in order to assist countries,
upon request, in the implementation of their national environmental
policies, collaborating closely with other relevant entities of the
UN system;

(h)
Ensure the active participation of all relevant stakeholders drawing
on best practices and models from relevant multilateral institutions
and exploring new mechanisms to promote transparency and the
effective engagement of civil society.




89.
We recognize the significant contributions to sustainable development
made by the multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs). We
acknowledge the work already undertaken to enhance synergies among
the three Conventions in the chemicals and waste cluster (the Basel,
Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions). We encourage parties to MEAs to
consider further measures, in these and other clusters, as
appropriate, to promote policy coherence at all relevant levels,
improve efficiency, reduce unnecessary overlap and duplication, and
enhance coordination and cooperation among MEAs, including the three
Rio Conventions as well as with the UN system in the field.




90.
We stress the need for the continuation of a regular review of the
state of the Earth’s changing environment and its impact on human
well-being and in this regard, we welcome such initiatives as the
Global Environmental Outlook process aimed at bringing together
environmental information and assessments and building national and
regional capacity to support informed decision making.




D.
International financial institutions and UN operational activities




91.
We recognize that sustainable development should be given due
consideration by the programmes, funds and specialized agencies of
the UN system and other relevant entities such as international
financial institutions, and the United Nations Conference on Trade
and Development (UNCTAD), in accordance with their respective
existing mandates. In this regard, we invite them to further enhance
mainstreaming of sustainable development in their respective
mandates, programs, strategies and decision-making processes, in
support of all countries in particular developing countries’
efforts in the achievement of sustainable development.




92.
We reaffirm the importance of broadening and strengthening the
participation of developing countries in international economic
decision-making and norm-setting, and in this regard, take note of
recent important decisions on reform of the governance structures,
quotas and voting rights of the Bretton Woods institutions, better
reflecting current realities and enhancing the voice and
participation of developing countries, and reiterates the importance
of the reform of the governance of those institutions in order to
deliver more effective, credible, accountable and legitimate
institutions.




93.
We call for the further mainstreaming of the three dimensions of
sustainable development throughout the UN System, and request the
Secretary-General to report to the General Assembly through ECOSOC on
the progress made in this regard. We also call for and recognize the
importance of the strengthening of policy coordination within key UN
Secretariat structures so as to ensure system-wide coherence in
support of sustainable development, while ensuring accountability to
Member States.




94.
We invite the governing bodies of the funds, programmes and
specialized agencies of the UN development system to consider
appropriate measures for integrating the social, economic and
environmental dimensions across the UN System’s operational
activities. We also emphasize that increasing the financial
contributions to the United Nations development system is key to
achieving the internationally agreed development goals, including the
Millennium Development Goals, and in this regard we recognize the
mutually reinforcing links among increased effectiveness, efficiency
and coherence of the United Nations development system, achieving
concrete results in assisting developing countries in eradicating
poverty and achieving sustained economic growth and sustainable
development.




95.
We emphasize the need to strengthen operational activities for
development of the UN system in the field that are well aligned with
national sustainable development priorities of developing countries.
In this regard, we emphasize that the fundamental characteristics and
principles of UN operational activities set forth in the relevant
General Assembly resolutions provide the overarching framework for
all matters pertaining to the UN development assistance operations in
the field. We recognize the importance of strengthening UN system
coordination. We look forward to receiving the outcome of the
independent evaluation of the “Delivering as One” initiative.




96.
We call on the UN system to improve the management of facilities and
operations, by taking into account sustainable development practices,
building on existing efforts and promoting cost effectiveness, and in
accordance with legislative frameworks, including financial rules and
regulations, while maintaining accountability to Member States.




E.
Regional, national, sub-national, local




97.
We acknowledge the importance of the regional dimension of
sustainable development. Regional frameworks can complement and
facilitate effective translation of sustainable development policies
into concrete action at national level.




98.
We encourage regional, national, sub-national and local authorities
as appropriate to develop and utilize sustainable development
strategies as key instruments for guiding decision-making and
implementation of sustainable development at all levels, and in this
regard we recognize that integrated social, economic, and
environmental data and information, as well as effective analysis and
assessment of implementation, is important to decision-making
processes.




99.
We encourage action at regional, national, sub-national, and local
levels to promote access to information, public participation, and
access to justice in environmental matters, as appropriate.




100.
We emphasize that regional and sub-regional organizations, including
the UN regional commissions and their sub-regional offices, have a
significant role to play in promoting a balanced integration of the
economic, social and environmental dimensions of sustainable
development in their respective regions. We underscore the need to
support these institutions, including through the UN system, in the
effective operationalization and implementation of sustainable
development, and to facilitate institutional coherence and
harmonization of relevant development policies, plans and programmes.
In this regard, we urge these institutions to prioritize sustainable
development through, inter
alia,
more efficient and effective capacity building, development and
implementation of regional agreements and arrangements as
appropriate, and exchange of information, best practices, and lessons
learnt. We also welcome regional and cross-regional initiatives for
sustainable development. We furthermore recognize the need to ensure
effective linkage among global, regional, sub-regional and national
processes to advance sustainable development. We encourage the
enhancement of the UN regional commissions and their sub-regional
offices in their respective capacities to support Member States in
implementing sustainable development.




101.
We underline the need for more coherent and integrated planning and
decision-making at the national, sub-national and local levels as
appropriate and, to this end, we call on countries to strengthen
national, sub-national and/or local institutions or relevant
multi-stakeholder bodies and processes, as appropriate, dealing with
sustainable development, including to coordinate on matters of
sustainable development and to enable effective integration of the
three dimensions of sustainable development.




102.
We welcome regional and cross-regional initiatives for sustainable
development, such as the Green Bridge Partnership which is voluntary
and open for participation of all partners.




103.
We underscore the need to ensure long-term political commitment to
sustainable development taking into account national circumstances
and priorities and, in this regard, we encourage all countries to
undertake the necessary actions and measures to achieve sustainable
development.







V.
Framework for action and follow-up




A.
Thematic areas and cross-sectoral issues




104.
We recognize that in order to achieve the objective of the
Conference, namely to secure renewed political commitment for
sustainable development, as well as to address the themes of a green
economy in the context of sustainable development and poverty
eradication and the institutional framework for sustainable
development, we commit to address remaining gaps in the
implementation of the outcomes of the major summits on sustainable
development, to address new and emerging challenges and to seize new
opportunities through the actions enumerated below in this framework
for action supported as appropriate through provision of means of
implementation. We recognize that goals, targets and indicators,
including where appropriate gender-sensitive indicators, are valuable
in measuring and accelerating progress. We further note that progress
with implementation of the actions stipulated below can be enhanced
by voluntarily sharing information, knowledge and experience.




Poverty
eradication




105.
We recognize that, three years from the 2015 target date of the MDGs,
while there has been progress in reducing poverty in some regions,
this progress has been uneven and the number of people living in
poverty in some countries continues to increase, with women and
children constituting the majority of the most affected groups,
especially in least developed countries and particularly in Africa.




106.
We recognize that sustained, inclusive and equitable economic growth
in developing countries is a key requirement for eradicating poverty
and hunger and achieving the MDGs. In this regard, we emphasize that
national efforts of developing countries should be complemented by an
enabling environment aimed at expanding development opportunities of
developing countries. We also emphasize the need to accord the
highest priority to poverty eradication within the United Nations
development agenda, addressing the root causes and challenges of
poverty through integrated, coordinated and coherent strategies at
all levels.




107.
We recognize that promoting universal access to social services can
make an important contribution to consolidating and achieving
development gains. Social protection systems that address and reduce
inequality and social exclusion are essential for eradicating poverty
and advancing the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. In
this regard, we strongly encourage initiatives aimed at enhancing
social protection for all people.




Food
security and nutrition and sustainable agriculture




108.
We reaffirm our commitments regarding the right of everyone to have
access to safe, sufficient and nutritious food, consistent with the
right to adequate food and the fundamental right of everyone to be
free from hunger. We acknowledge that food security and nutrition has
become a pressing global challenge and, in this regard, we further
reaffirm our commitment to enhancing food security and access to
adequate, safe and nutritious food for present and future generations
in line with the Rome Principles adopted in 2009, including children
under two, and through, as appropriate, national, regional and global
food security and nutrition strategies.




109.
We recognize that a significant portion of the world’s poor live in
rural areas, and that rural communities play an important role in the
economic development of many countries. We emphasize the need to
revitalize the agricultural and rural development sectors, notably in
developing countries, in an economically, socially and
environmentally sustainable manner. We recognize the importance to
take the necessary actions to better address the needs of rural
communities through, inter
alia,
enhancing access by agricultural producers, in particular small
producers, women, indigenous peoples and people living in vulnerable
situations, to credit and other financial services, markets, secure
land tenure, health care and social services, education and training,
knowledge, and appropriate and affordable technologies, including for
efficient irrigation, reuse of treated waste water, water harvesting
and storage. We reiterate the importance of empowering rural women as
critical agents for enhancing agricultural and rural development and
food security and nutrition. We also recognize the importance of
traditional sustainable agricultural practices, including traditional
seed supply systems, including for many indigenous peoples and local
communities.




110.
Noting the diversity of agricultural conditions and systems, we
resolve to increase sustainable agricultural production and
productivity globally, including through improving the functioning of
markets and trading systems and strengthening international
cooperation, particularly for developing countries, by increasing
public and private investment in sustainable agriculture, land
management and rural development. Key areas for investment and
support include: sustainable agricultural practices; rural
infrastructure, storage capacities and related technologies; research
and development on sustainable agricultural technologies; developing
strong agricultural cooperatives and value chains; and strengthening
urban-rural linkages. We also recognize the need to significantly
reduce post-harvest and other food losses and waste throughout the
food supply chain.




111.
We reaffirm the necessity to promote, enhance and support more
sustainable agriculture, including crops, livestock, forestry,
fisheries and aquaculture, that improves food security, eradicates
hunger, and is economically viable, while conserving land, water,
plant and animal genetic resources, biodiversity and ecosystems, and
enhancing resilience to climate change and natural disasters. We also
recognize the need to maintain natural ecological processes that
support food production systems.




112.
We stress the need to enhance sustainable livestock production
systems, including through improving pasture land and irrigation
schemes in line with national policies, legislation, rules and
regulations, enhanced sustainable water management systems, and
efforts to eradicate and prevent the spread of animal diseases,
recognizing that the livelihoods of farmers including pastoralists
and the health of livestock are intertwined.




113.
We also stress the crucial role of healthy marine ecosystems,
sustainable fisheries, and sustainable aquaculture for food security
and nutrition, and in providing for the livelihoods of millions of
people.




114.
We resolve to take action to enhance agricultural research, extension
services, training and education to improve agricultural productivity
and sustainability through the voluntary sharing of knowledge and
good practices. We further resolve to improve access to information,
technical knowledge and know-how, including through new information
and communication technologies that empower farmers, fishers and
foresters to choose among diverse methods of achieving sustainable
agricultural production. We call for the strengthening of
international cooperation on agricultural research for development.




115.
We reaffirm the important work and inclusive nature of the Committee
on World Food Security (CFS), including through its role in
facilitating country-initiated assessments on sustainable food
production and food security, and we encourage countries to give due
consideration to implementing the CFS Voluntary Guidelines on the
Responsible Governance of Tenure of Land, Fisheries and Forests in
the Context of National Food Security. We take note of the on-going
discussions on responsible agricultural investment in the framework
of the CFS, as well as the Principles for Responsible Agricultural
Investment (PRAI).




116.
We stress the need to address the root causes of excessive food price
volatility, including its structural causes, at all levels, and the
need to manage the risks linked to high and excessively volatile
prices in agriculture commodities and their consequences for global
food security and nutrition, as well as for smallholder farmers and
poor urban dwellers.




117.
We underline the importance of timely, accurate and transparent
information in helping to address excessive food price volatility,
and in this regard takes note of the Agricultural Market Information
System hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United
Nations and urges the participating international organizations,
private sector actors and Governments to ensure the public
dissemination of timely and quality food market information products.




118.
We reaffirm that a universal, rules-based, open, non-discriminatory
and equitable multilateral trading system will promote agricultural
and rural development in developing countries and contribute to world
food security. We urge national, regional and international
strategies to promote the participation of farmers, especially
smallholder farmers, including women, in community, domestic,
regional and international markets.




Water
and sanitation




119.
We recognize that water is at the core of sustainable development as
it is closely linked to a number of key global challenges. We
therefore reiterate the importance of integrating water in
sustainable development and underline the critical importance of
water and sanitation within the three dimensions of sustainable
development.




120.
We reaffirm the commitments made in the Johannesburg Plan of
Implementation and Millennium Declaration regarding halving by 2015
the proportion of people without access to safe drinking water and
basic sanitation and the development of integrated water resource
management and water efficiency plans, ensuring sustainable water
use. We commit to the progressive realization of access to safe and
affordable drinking water and basic sanitation for all, as necessary
for poverty eradication and to protect human health, and to
significantly improve the implementation of integrated water resource
management at all levels as appropriate. In this regard, we reiterate
these commitments in particular for developing countries through the
mobilization of resources from all sources, capacity building and
technology transfer.




121.
We reaffirm our commitments regarding the human right to safe
drinking water and sanitation, to be progressively realized for our
populations with full respect for national sovereignty. We also
highlight our commitment to the 2005-2015 International Decade for
Action “Water for Life.”




122.
We recognize the key role that ecosystems play in maintaining water
quantity and quality and support actions within the respective
national boundaries to protect and sustainably manage these
ecosystems.




123.
 We underline the need to adopt measures to address floods, droughts,
and water scarcity, addressing the balance between water supply and
demand including where appropriate non-conventional water resources,
and to mobilize financial resources and investment in infrastructure
for water and sanitation services, in accordance with national
priorities.




124.
We stress the need to adopt measures to significantly reduce water
pollution and increase water quality, significantly improve
wastewater treatment, and water efficiency and reduce water losses.
In order to achieve this end we stress the need for international
assistance and cooperation.




Energy




125.
We recognize the critical role that energy plays in the development
process, as access to sustainable modern energy services contributes
to poverty eradication, saves lives, improves health and helps
provide basic human needs. We stress that these services are
essential to social inclusion and gender equality, and that energy is
also a key input to production. We commit to facilitate support for
access to these services by 1.4 billion people worldwide who are
currently without these services. We recognize that access to these
services is critical for achieving sustainable development.




126.
We emphasize the need to address the challenge of access to
sustainable modern energy services for all, in particular for the
poor who are unable to afford these services even when they are
available. We emphasize the need to take further action to improve
this situation, including by mobilizing adequate financial resources,
to provide these services in a reliable, affordable, economically
viable, and socially and environmentally acceptable manner in
developing countries.




127.
We reaffirm support for the implementation of national and
sub-national policies and strategies, based on individual national
circumstances and development aspirations, using an appropriate
energy mix to meet developmental needs, including through increased
use of renewable energy sources and other low-emission technologies,
the more efficient use of energy, greater reliance on advanced energy
technologies, including cleaner fossil fuel technologies, and the
sustainable use of traditional energy resources. We commit to
promoting sustainable modern energy services for all through national
and sub-national efforts, inter
alia,
on electrification and dissemination of sustainable cooking and
heating solutions, including through collaborative actions to share
best practices and adopt policies, as appropriate. We urge
governments to create enabling environments that facilitate public
and private sector investment in relevant and needed cleaner energy
technologies.




128.
We recognize that improving energy efficiency, increasing the share
of renewable energy, cleaner and energy-efficient technologies are
important for sustainable development, including in addressing
climate change. We also recognize the need for energy efficiency
measures in urban planning, buildings, and transportation, and in the
production of goods and services and in the design of products. We
also recognize the importance of promoting incentives in favour of,
and removing disincentives to, energy efficiency and the
diversification of the energy mix, including promoting research and
development in all countries, including developing countries.




129.
We note the launching of the initiative by the Secretary General on
“Sustainable Energy for All”, which focus on access to energy,
energy efficiency and renewable energies. We are all determined to
act to make sustainable energy for all a reality, and through this,
help eradicate poverty and lead to sustainable development and global
prosperity. We recognize that countries’ activities in broader
energy-related issues are of great importance and are prioritized
according to their specific challenges, capacities and circumstances,
including energy mix.




Sustainable
tourism




130.
We emphasize that well designed and managed tourism can make a
significant contribution to the three dimensions of sustainable
development, has close linkages to other sectors, and can create
decent jobs and generate trade opportunities. We recognize the need
to support sustainable tourism activities and relevant capacity
building that promote environmental awareness, conserve and protect
the environment, respect wildlife, flora, biodiversity and ecosystems
and cultural diversity, and improve the welfare and livelihoods of
local communities by supporting their local economies and the human
and natural environment as a whole. We call for enhanced support for
sustainable tourism activities and relevant capacity building in
developing countries in order to contribute to the achievement of
sustainable development.




131.
We encourage the promotion of investment in sustainable tourism,
including eco-tourism and cultural tourism, which may include
creating small- and medium-sized enterprises and facilitating access
to finance, including through microcredit initiatives for the poor,
indigenous peoples and local communities in areas with high
eco-tourism potential. In this regard, we underline the importance of
establishing, where necessary, appropriate guidelines and regulations
in accordance with national priorities and legislation for promoting
and supporting sustainable tourism.




Sustainable
transport




132.
We note that transportation and mobility are central to sustainable
development. Sustainable transportation can enhance economic growth
as well as improving accessibility. Sustainable transport achieves
better integration of the economy while respecting the environment.
We recognize the importance of the efficient movement of people and
goods, and access to environmentally sound, safe and affordable
transportation as a means to improve social equity, health,
resilience of cities, urban-rural linkages and productivity of rural
areas. In this regard, we take into account road safety as a part of
our efforts to achieve sustainable development.




133.
We support the development of sustainable transport systems,
including energy efficient multi-modal transport systems, notably
public mass transportation systems, clean fuels and vehicles, as well
as improved transportation systems in rural areas. We recognize the
need to promote an integrated approach to policy-making at the
national, regional and local levels for transport services and
systems to promote sustainable development. We also recognize that
the special development needs of landlocked and transit developing
countries need to be taken into account while establishing
sustainable transit transport systems. We acknowledge the need for
international support to developing countries in this regard.




Sustainable
cities and human settlements




134.
We recognize that, if well planned and developed including through
integrated planning and management approaches, cities can promote
economically, socially and environmentally sustainable societies. In
this regard, we recognize the need for a holistic approach to urban
development and human settlements that provides for affordable
housing and infrastructure and prioritizes slum upgrading and urban
regeneration. We commit to work towards improving the quality of
human settlements, including the living and working conditions of
both urban and rural dwellers in the context of poverty eradication
so that all people have access to basic services, housing and
mobility. We also recognize the need for conservation as appropriate
of the natural and cultural heritage of human settlements, the
revitalization of historic districts, and the rehabilitation of city
centers.




135.
We commit to promote an integrated approach to planning and building
sustainable cities and urban settlements, including through
supporting local authorities, increasing public awareness and
enhancing participation of urban residents, including the poor, in
decision making. We also commit to promote sustainable development
policies that support inclusive housing and social services; a safe
and healthy living environment for all, particularly children, youth,
women, elderly and disabled; affordable and sustainable transport and
energy; promotion, protection and restoration of safe and green urban
spaces; safe and clean drinking water and sanitation; healthy air
quality; generation of decent jobs; and improved urban planning and
slum upgrading. We further support sustainable management of waste
through the application of the 3Rs (reduce, reuse and recycle). We
underline the importance of considering disaster risk reduction,
resilience and climate risks in urban planning. We recognize the
efforts of cities to balance development with rural regions.




136.
We emphasize the importance of increasing the number of metropolitan
regions, cities and towns that are implementing policies for
sustainable urban planning and design in order to respond effectively
to the expected growth of urban populations in coming decades. We
note that sustainable urban planning benefits from the involvement of
multiple stakeholders as well as from full use of information and
sex-disaggregated data including on demographic trends, income
distribution and informal settlements. We recognize the important
role of municipal governments in setting a vision for sustainable
cities, from the initiation of city planning through to
revitalization of older cities and neighborhoods, including by
adopting energy efficiency programmes in building management and
developing sustainable locally-appropriate transport systems. We
further recognize the importance of mixed-use planning and of
encouraging non-motorized mobility, including by promoting pedestrian
and cycling infrastructures.




137.
We recognize that partnerships among cities and communities play an
important role in promoting sustainable development. In this regard,
we stress the need to strengthen existing cooperation mechanisms or
platforms, partnership arrangements and other implementation tools to
advance the coordinated implementation of the UN Habitat Agenda with
active involvement of all relevant UN entities and with the overall
aim of achieving sustainable urban development. We further recognize
the continuing need for adequate and predictable financial
contributions to the UN Habitat and Human Settlements Foundation so
as to ensure timely, effective and concrete global implementation of
the Habitat Agenda.




Health
and population




138.
We recognize that health is a precondition for, an outcome of, and an
indicator of all three dimensions of sustainable development. We
understand the goals of sustainable development can only be achieved
in the absence of a high prevalence of debilitating communicable and
non-communicable diseases, and where populations can reach a state of
physical, mental and social well-being. We are convinced that action
on the social and environmental determinants of health, both for the
poor and the vulnerable and the entire population, is important to
create inclusive, equitable, economically productive and healthy
societies. We call for the full realization of the right to the
enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental
health.




139.
We also recognize the importance of universal health coverage to
enhancing health, social cohesion and sustainable human and economic
development. We pledge to strengthen health systems towards the
provision of equitable universal coverage. We call for the
involvement of all relevant actors for coordinated multi-sectoral
action to address urgently the health needs of the world’s
population.




140.
We emphasize that HIV and AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, influenza,
polio and other communicable diseases remain serious global concerns,
and we commit to redoubling efforts to achieve universal access to
HIV prevention, treatment, care and support, and to eliminate mother
to child transmission of HIV as well as to renewing and strengthening
the fight against malaria, tuberculosis, and neglected tropical
diseases.




141.
We acknowledge that the global burden and threat of non-communicable
diseases (NCDs) constitutes one of the major challenges for
sustainable development in the twenty-first century. We commit to
strengthen health systems toward the provision of equitable,
universal coverage and promote affordable access to prevention,
treatment, care and support related to NCDs, especially cancers,
cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes.
We also commit to establish or strengthen multi-sectoral national
policies for the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases.
We recognize that reducing inter-alia air, water and chemical
pollution leads to positive effects on health.




142.
We reaffirm the right to use, to the full, the provisions contained
in the agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property
Rights (TRIPS), the Doha Declaration on the Agreement on
Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights and Public
Health, the decision of the World Trade Organization General Council
of 30th August 2003 on the implementation of paragraph 6 of the Doha
Declaration on the TRIPS agreement and public health, and, when
formal acceptance procedures are completed, the amendment to article
31 of the agreement, which provides flexibilities for the protection
of public health, and, in particular, to promote access to medicines
for all, and encourage the provision of assistance to developing
countries in this regard.




143.
We call for further collaboration and cooperation at national and
international levels to strengthen health systems through increased
health financing, recruitment, development, training and retention of
the health work force, improved distribution and access to safe,
affordable, effective and quality medicines, vaccines and medical
technologies, and through improving health infrastructure. We support
the leadership role of the World Health Organization as the directing
and coordinating authority on international health work.




144.
We commit to systematically consider population trends and
projections in our national, rural and urban development strategies
and policies. Through forward-looking planning, we can seize the
opportunities and address the challenges associated with demographic
change including migration.




145.
We call for the full and effective implementation of the Beijing
Platform for Action, the International Conference on Population and
Development (ICPD) Programme of Action and the outcomes of their
review conferences including the commitments leading to sexual and
reproductive health and the promotion and protection of all human
rights in this context. We emphasize the need for the provision of
universal access to reproductive health, including family planning
and sexual health and the integration of reproductive health in
national strategies and programmes.




146.
We commit to reduce maternal and child mortality, and to improve the
health of women, men, youth and children. We reaffirm our commitment
to gender equality and to protect the rights of women, men and youth
to have control over and decide freely and responsibly on matters
related to their sexuality, including access to sexual and
reproductive health, free from coercion, discrimination and violence.
We will work actively to ensure that health systems provide the
necessary information and health services addressing the sexual and
reproductive health of women, including working towards universal
access to safe, effective, affordable and acceptable modern methods
of family planning, as this is essential for women’s health and
advancing gender equality




Promoting
full and productive employment, decent work for all, and social
protections




147.
We recognize that poverty eradication, full and productive employment
and decent work for all, and social integration and protection are
interrelated and mutually reinforcing, and that enabling environments
to promote these needs to be created at all levels.




148.
We are concerned about labour market conditions and widespread
deficits of available decent work opportunities, especially for young
women and men. We urge all governments to address the global
challenge of youth employment by developing and implementing
strategies and policies that provide young people everywhere access
to decent and productive work, as over the coming decades, decent
jobs will need to be created to be able to ensure sustainable and
inclusive development and reduce poverty.




149.
We recognize the importance of job creation by investing in and
developing sound, effective and efficient economic and social
infrastructure and productive capacities for sustainable development
and sustained, inclusive and equitable economic growth. We call on
countries to enhance infrastructure investment for sustainable
development and we agree to support UN funds, programmes and agencies
to help assist and promote developing countries’ efforts,
particularly the least developed countries, in this regard.




150.
We recognize the importance of job creation by adopting
forward-looking macroeconomic policies that promote sustainable
development and lead to sustained, inclusive and equitable economic
growth, increase productive employment opportunities and promote
agricultural and industrial development.




151.
We emphasize the need to enhance employment and income opportunities
for all, especially for women and men living in poverty and, in this
regard, we support national efforts to provide new job opportunities
to the poor in both rural and urban areas, including support to small
and medium enterprises.




152.
We recognize that workers should have access to education, skills,
healthcare, social security, fundamental rights at work, social and
legal protections, including occupational safety and health, and
decent work opportunities. Governments, trade unions and workers, and
employers all have a role to play in promoting decent work for all,
and all should help youth gain access to needed skills and employment
opportunities including in new and emerging sectors. Women and men
should have equal access to opportunities to acquire job skills as
well as to worker protections. We recognize the importance of a just
transition including programmes to help workers adjust to changing
labour market conditions.




153.
We also recognize that informal unpaid work, performed mostly by
women, contributes substantially to human wellbeing and sustainable
development. In this regard, we commit to work towards safe and
decent working conditions and access to social protection and
education.




154.
 We recognize that opportunities for decent work for all and job
creation can be availed through, inter
alia,
public and private investments in scientific and technological
innovation, public works in restoring, regenerating and conserving
natural resources and ecosystems, and social and community services.
We are encouraged by government initiatives to create jobs for poor
people in restoring and managing natural resources and ecosystems,
and we encourage the private sector to contribute to decent work for
all and job creation for both women and men, and particularly for the
youth, including through partnerships with small and medium
enterprises as well as cooperatives. In this regard, we acknowledge
the importance of efforts to promote the exchange of information and
knowledge on decent work for all and job creation, including green
jobs initiatives and related skills, and to facilitate the
integration of relevant data into national economic and employment
policies.




155.
We encourage the sharing of experiences and best practices on ways to
address the high levels of unemployment and underemployment, in
particular among youth.




156.
We stress the need to provide social protection to all members of
society, fostering growth, resilience, social justice and cohesion,
including those who are not employed in the formal economy. In this
regard, we strongly encourage national and local initiatives aimed at
providing social protection floors for all citizens. We support
global dialogue on best practices for social protection programmes
that takes into account the three dimensions of sustainable
development and, in this regard, we note the International Labour
Organization Recommendation 202 concerning National Floors of Social
Protection.




157.
We call upon States to promote and protect effectively the human
rights and fundamental freedom of all migrants regardless of the
migration status, especially those of women and children, and to
address international migration through international, regional or
bilateral cooperation and dialogue and for a comprehensive and
balanced approach, recognizing the roles and responsibilities of
countries of origin, transit and destination in promoting and
protecting the human rights of all migrants, and avoiding approaches
that might aggravate their vulnerability.




Oceans
and seas




158.
We recognize that oceans, seas and coastal areas form an integrated
and essential component of the Earth’s ecosystem and are critical
to sustaining it and that international law, as reflected in United
Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), provides the legal
framework for the conservation and the sustainable use of the oceans
and their resources. We stress the importance of the conservation and
sustainable use of the oceans and seas and of their resources for
sustainable development, including through the contributions to
poverty eradication, sustained economic growth, food security,
creation of sustainable livelihoods and decent work, while at the
same time protecting biodiversity and the marine environment and
addressing the impacts of climate change. We therefore commit to
protect, and restore, the health, productivity and resilience of
oceans and marine ecosystems, and to maintain their biodiversity,
enabling their conservation and sustainable use for present and
future generations, and to effectively apply an ecosystem approach
and the precautionary approach in the management, in accordance with
international law, of activities impacting on the marine environment,
to deliver on all three dimensions of sustainable development.




159.
We recognize the importance of UNCLOS to advancing sustainable
development and its near universal adoption by States, and in this
regard we urge all its Parties to fully implement their obligations
under the Convention.




160.
We recognize the importance of building the capacity of developing
countries to be able to benefit from the conservation and sustainable
use of the oceans and seas and their resources and, in this regard,
we emphasize the need for cooperation in marine scientific research
to implement the provisions of UNCLOS and the outcomes of the major
summits on sustainable development, as well as for the transfer of
technology, taking into account the Intergovernmental Oceanographic
Commission (IOC) Guidelines for the transfer of marine technology.




161.
We support the Regular Process for Global Reporting and Assessment of
the State of the Marine Environment, including socio-economic
aspects, established under the United Nations General Assembly, and
look forward to the completion of its first global integrated
assessment of the state of the marine environment by 2014 and its
subsequent consideration by the General Assembly. We encourage
consideration by States of assessment findings at appropriate levels.




162.
We recognize the importance of the conservation and sustainable use
of marine biodiversity beyond areas of national jurisdiction. We note
the ongoing work under the UN General Assembly of an Ad Hoc
Open-ended Informal Working Group to study issues relating to the
conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity
beyond areas of national jurisdiction. Building on the work of the ad
hoc working group and before the end of the 69th
Session of the United Nations General Assembly we commit to address,
on an urgent basis, the issue of the conservation and sustainable use
of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction
including by taking a decision on the development of an international
instrument under UNCLOS.




163.
We note with concern that the health of oceans and marine
biodiversity are negatively affected by marine pollution, including
marine debris, especially plastic, persistent organic pollutants,
heavy metals, and nitrogen-based compounds, from a number of marine
and land-based sources, including shipping and land runoff. We commit
to take action to reduce the incidence and impacts of such pollution
on marine ecosystems, including through the effective implementation
of relevant conventions adopted in the framework of the International
Maritime Organization (IMO), and the follow up of the relevant
initiatives such as the Global Programme of Action for the Protection
of the Marine Environment from Land-based Activities, as well as the
adoption of coordinated strategies to this end. We further commit to
take action to, by 2025, based on collected scientific data, achieve
significant reductions in marine debris to prevent harm to the
coastal and marine environment.




164.
We note the significant threat alien invasive species pose to marine
ecosystems and resources and commit to implement measures to prevent
the introduction of, and manage the adverse environmental impacts of,
alien invasive species including, as appropriate, those adopted in
the framework of the IMO.




165.
We note that sea level rise and coastal erosion are serious threats
for many coastal regions and islands particularly in developing
countries and, in this regard, we call on the international community
to enhance its efforts to address these challenges.




166.
We call for support to initiatives that address ocean acidification
and the impacts of climate change on marine and coastal ecosystems
and resources. In this regard, we reiterate the need to work
collectively to prevent further ocean acidification, as well as
enhance the resilience of marine ecosystems and of the communities
whose livelihoods depend on them, and to support marine scientific
research, monitoring and observation of ocean acidification and
particularly vulnerable ecosystems, including through enhanced
international cooperation in this regard.




167.
We stress our concern about the potential environmental impacts of
ocean fertilization. In this regard, we recall the decisions related
to ocean fertilization adopted by the relevant intergovernmental
bodies, and resolve to continue addressing with utmost caution ocean
fertilization, consistent with the precautionary approach.




168.
We commit to intensify our efforts to meet the 2015 target as agreed
to in JPOI to maintain or restore stocks to levels that can produce
maximum sustainable yield on an urgent basis. In this regard we
further commit to urgently take the measures necessary to maintain or
restore all stocks at least to levels that can produce the maximum
sustainable yield, with the aim of achieving these goals in the
shortest time feasible, as determined by their biological
characteristics. To achieve this we commit to urgently develop and
implement science based management plans, including by reducing or
suspending fishing catch and effort commensurate with the status of
the stock. We further commit to enhance action to manage bycatch,
discards, and other adverse ecosystem impacts from fisheries
including by eliminating destructive fishing practices. We also
commit to enhance actions to protect vulnerable marine ecosystems
from significant adverse impacts including through the effective use
of impact assessments. Such actions, including those through
competent organizations, should be undertaken consistent with
international law, the applicable international instruments and
relevant General Assembly resolutions and Food and Agriculture
Organization (FAO) Guidelines.




169.
We urge State Parties to the 1995 Agreement for the Implementation of
the Provisions of UNCLOS relating to the Conservation and Management
of Straddling and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks to fully implement it,
and give, in accordance with its Part VII, full recognition of the
special requirements of developing States. Furthermore, we call upon
all States to implement the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries
and the FAO International Plans of Action and technical guidelines.




170.
We acknowledge that illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing
deprive many countries of a crucial natural resource and remain a
persistent threat to their sustainable development. We recommit to
eliminate IUU fishing as advanced in the Johannesburg Plan of
Implementation, and to prevent and combat these practices including
through the following: developing and implementing national and
regional action plans in accordance with the FAO's international plan
of action to combat IUU fishing; implementing—in accordance with
international law—effective and coordinated measures by coastal
States, flag States, port States and chartering nations and the
States of nationality of the beneficial owners and others who support
or engage in IUU fishing by identifying vessels engaged in IUU
fishing and by depriving offenders of the benefits accruing from IUU
fishing; as well as cooperating with developing countries to
systematically identify needs and build capacity, including support
for monitoring, control, surveillance, compliance and enforcement
systems.




171.
We call upon States that have signed the FAO Agreement on Port State
Measures to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported and
Unregulated Fishing to expedite procedures for its ratification with
a view to its early entry into force.




172.
We recognize the need for transparency and accountability in
fisheries management by regional fisheries management organizations
(RFMOs). We recognize the efforts already made by those RFMOs that
have undertaken independent performance reviews, and call on all
RFMOs to regularly undertake such reviews and make the results
publicly available. We encourage implementation of the
recommendations of such reviews and recommend that the
comprehensiveness of those reviews be strengthened over time, as
necessary.




173.
We reaffirm our Johannesburg Plan of Implementation commitment to
eliminate subsidies that contribute to illegal, unreported, and
unregulated fishing and overcapacity taking into account the
importance of this sector to developing countries, and we reiterate
our commitment to conclude multilateral disciplines on fisheries
subsidies which give effect to the WTO Doha Development Agenda and
the Hong Kong Ministerial mandates to strengthen disciplines on
subsidies in the fisheries sector, including through the prohibition
of certain forms of fisheries subsidies that contribute to
overcapacity and over-fishing, recognising that appropriate and
effective special and differential treatment for developing and least
developed countries should be an integral part of the WTO fisheries
subsidies negotiation, taking into account the importance of the
sector to development priorities, poverty reduction, and livelihood
and food security concerns. We encourage States to further improve
the transparency and reporting of existing fisheries subsidies
programmes through the WTO. Given the state of fisheries resources
and without prejudicing the WTO Doha and Hong Kong Ministerial
mandates on fisheries subsidies nor the need to conclude these
negotiations, we encourage States to eliminate subsidies that
contribute to overcapacity and over-fishing, and to refrain from
introducing new such subsidies or from extending or enhancing
existing such subsidies.




174.
We urge the identification and mainstreaming of strategies by 2014
that further assist developing countries, in particular the least
developed countries and small island developing States, in developing
their national capacity to conserve, sustainably manage and realize
the benefits of sustainable fisheries, including through improved
market access for fish products from developing countries.




175.
We commit to observe the need to ensure access to fisheries, and the
importance of access to markets, by subsistence, small-scale and
artisanal fishers and women fish workers, as well as indigenous
peoples and their communities particularly in developing countries,
especially small island developing States.




176.
We also recognize the significant economic, social and environmental
contributions of coral reefs, in particular to islands and other
coastal States, as well as the significant vulnerability of coral
reefs and mangroves to impacts including from climate change, ocean
acidification, overfishing, destructive fishing practices and
pollution. We support international cooperation with a view to
conserving coral reef and mangrove ecosystems and realizing their
social, economic and environmental benefits as well as facilitating
technical collaboration and voluntary information sharing.




177.
We reaffirm the importance of area based conservation measures,
including marine protected areas consistent with international law
and based on best available scientific information as a tool for
conservation of biological diversity and sustainable use of its
components. We note decision X/2 of the 10th Meeting of the
Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity,
that by 2020, 10 percent of coastal and marine areas, especially
areas of particular importance for biodiversity and ecosystem
services, are to be conserved through effectively and equitably
managed, ecologically representative and well-connected systems of
protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures.




Small
island developing States (SIDS)




178.
We reaffirm that small island developing States (SIDS) remain a
special case for sustainable development in view of their unique and
particular vulnerabilities, including their small size, remoteness,
narrow resource and export base, and exposure to global environmental
challenges and external economic shocks, including to a large range
of impacts from climate change and potentially more frequent and
intense natural disasters. We note with concern that the outcome of
the 5-year review of the Mauritius Strategy for Implementation
(MSI+5) concluded that SIDS have made less progress than most other
groupings, or even regressed, in economic terms, especially in terms
of poverty reduction and debt sustainability. Sea-level rise and
other adverse impacts of climate change continue to pose a
significant risk to SIDS and their efforts to achieve sustainable
development and for many represent the gravest of threats to their
survival and viability, including for some through the loss of
territory. We also remain concerned that, while SIDS have progressed
in the areas of gender, health, education and the environment, their
overall progress towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals
has been uneven.




179.
We call for continued and enhanced efforts to assist SIDS in
implementing the Barbados Programme of Action and Mauritius Strategy
for Implementation. We also call for a strengthening of the United
Nations System support to SIDS in keeping with the multiple ongoing
and emerging challenges faced by SIDS in achieving sustainable
development.




180.
Building on the Barbados Programme of Action and the Mauritius
Strategy for Implementation, we call for the convening of the Third
International Conference on SIDS in 2014, recognizing the importance
of coordinated, balanced and integrated actions to address the
sustainable development challenges facing SIDS and we invite the
General Assembly at its 67th Session to determine the modalities of
the Conference.




Least
developed countries 





181.
We agree to effectively implement the Istanbul Programme of Action
and to fully integrate its priority areas into the framework for
action, the broader implementation of which will contribute to the
IPOA’s overarching goal of enabling half of LDCs to meet the
criteria of graduation by 2020.




Landlocked
least developed countries




182.
We invite Member States, including development partners,
organizations of the United Nations system and other relevant
international, regional and subregional organizations, to speed up
further the implementation of the specific actions in the five
priorities agreed upon in the Almaty Programme of Action and those
contained in the Declaration on the midterm review, in a
better-coordinated manner, in particular for the construction,
maintenance and improvement of their transport, storage and other
transit-related facilities, including alternative routes, completion
of missing links and improved communications and energy
infrastructure, so as to support these countries' sustainable
development.




Africa




183.
While we acknowledge that some progress has been made towards the
fulfillment of international commitments related to Africa’s
development needs, we emphasize that significant challenges remain in
achieving sustainable development on the continent.




184.
We call on the international community to enhance support and fulfill
commitments to advance action in areas critical to Africa’s
sustainable development and welcome the efforts by development
partners to strengthen cooperation with the New Partnership for
Africa’s Development (NEPAD). We also welcome the progress made by
African countries in deepening democracy, human rights, good
governance and sound economic management, and encourage African
countries to continue their efforts in this regard. We invite all of
Africa’s development partners, in particular developed countries,
to support African countries in strengthening human capacities and
democratic institutions, consistent with their priorities and
objectives with a view to furthering Africa’s development at all
levels, including through facilitating the transfer of technology
needed by African countries as mutually agreed. We recognize the need
for African countries to make continued efforts to create enabling
environments for inclusive growth in support of sustainable
development and for the international community to make continued
efforts to increase the flow of new and additional resources for
financing for development from all sources, public and private,
domestic and foreign, to support these development efforts by African
countries and welcome the various important initiatives established
between African countries and their development partners in this
regard.




Regional
efforts




185.
We encourage coordinated regional actions to promote sustainable
development. We recognize, in this regard, that important steps have
been taken to promote sustainable development, in particular in the
Arab region, Latin America and the Caribbean and the Asia Pacific
region, through relevant fora including within United Nations
regional commissions. While noting that challenges remain in several
areas, the international community welcomes these efforts, and the
results already achieved, and calls for actions at all levels for
their further development and implementation.




Disaster
risk reduction




186.
We reaffirm our commitment to the Hyogo Framework for Action
2005-2015: Building the Resilience of Nations and Communities to
Disasters and call for States, the UN system, international financial
institutions, subregional, regional and international organizations,
and civil society to accelerate implementation of the framework and
the achievement of its goals. We call for disaster risk reduction and
building of resilience to disasters to be addressed with a renewed
sense of urgency in the context of sustainable development and
poverty eradication, and, as appropriate, to be integrated into
policies, plans, programmes, and budgets at all levels and considered
within relevant future frameworks. We invite governments at all
levels as well as relevant subregional, regional and international
organizations to commit to adequate, timely and predictable resources
for disaster risk reduction in order to enhance resilience of cities
and communities to disasters, according to their own circumstances
and capacities.




187.
We recognize the importance of early warning systems as part of
effective disaster risk reduction at all levels in order to reduce
economic and social damages including the loss of human life, and in
this regard encourage States to integrate such systems into their
national disaster risk reduction strategies and plans. We encourage
donors and the international community to enhance international
cooperation in support of disaster risk reduction in developing
countries as appropriate through technical assistance, technology
transfer as mutually agreed, capacity building and training
programmes. We further recognize the importance of comprehensive
hazard and risk assessments, and knowledge and information sharing,
including reliable geospatial information. We commit to undertake and
strengthen in a timely manner risk assessment and disaster risk
reduction instruments.




188.
We stress the importance of stronger inter-linkages among disaster
risk reduction, recovery and long-term development planning, and call
for more coordinated and comprehensive strategies that integrate
disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation considerations
into public and private investment, decision making and planning of
humanitarian and development actions in order to reduce risk,
increase resilience and provide a smoother transition between relief,
recovery and development. In this regard, we recognize also the need
to integrate a gender perspective into the design and implementation
of all phases of disaster risk management.




189.
We call for all relevant stakeholders, including Governments,
international, regional and subregional organizations, the private
sector and civil society, to take appropriate and effective measures,
taking into account the three dimensions of sustainable development,
including through strengthening coordination and cooperation to
reduce risk exposures for the protection of people, infrastructure
and other national assets from the impact of disasters in line with
the Hyogo Framework for Action and any post-2015 framework for
disaster risk reduction.




Climate
change




190.
We reaffirm that climate change is one of the greatest challenges of
our time, and we express profound alarm that emissions of greenhouse
gases continue to rise globally. We are deeply concerned that all
countries, particularly developing countries, are vulnerable to the
adverse impacts of climate change, and are already experiencing
increased impacts including persistent drought and extreme weather
events, sea level rise, coastal erosion and ocean acidification,
further threatening food security and efforts to eradicate poverty
and achieve sustainable development. In this regard we emphasize that
adaptation to climate change represents an immediate and urgent
global priority.




191.
We underscore that the global nature of climate change calls for the
widest possible cooperation by all countries and their participation
in an effective and appropriate international response, with a view
to accelerating the reduction of global greenhouse gas emissions. We
recall that UNFCCC provides that Parties should protect the climate
system for the benefit of present and future generations of humankind
on the basis of equity and in accordance with their common but
differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities. We note
with grave concern the significant gap between the aggregate effect
of Parties’ mitigation pledges in terms of global annual emissions
of greenhouse gases by 2020 and aggregate emission pathways
consistent with having a likely chance of holding the increase in
global average temperature below 2 °C or 1.5 °C above
pre-industrial levels. We recognize the importance of mobilizing
funding from a variety of sources, public and private, bilateral and
multilateral, including innovative sources of finance, to support
nationally appropriate mitigation actions, adaptation measures,
technology development and transfer and capacity-building in
developing countries. In this regard, we welcome the launching of the
Green Climate Fund and call for its prompt operationalization so as
to have an early and adequate replenishment process.




192.
We urge Parties to the UNFCCC and Parties to the Kyoto Protocol to
fully implement their commitments, as well as decisions adopted under
those agreements. In this regard, we will build upon the progress
achieved including at the most recent COP-17/CMP 7 in Durban.




Forests




193.
 We highlight the social, economic and environmental benefits of
forests to people and the contributions of sustainable forest
management to the themes and objective of the Conference. We support
cross-sectoral and cross-institutional policies promoting sustainable
forest management. We reaffirm that the wide range of products and
services that forests provide creates opportunities to address many
of the most pressing sustainable development challenges. We call for
enhanced efforts to achieve the sustainable management of forests,
reforestation, restoration and afforestation, and we support all
efforts that effectively slow, halt and reverse deforestation and
forest degradation, including inter
alia
promoting trade in legally-harvested forest products. We note the
importance of ongoing initiatives such as reducing emissions from
deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries; and the
role of conservation, sustainable management of forests and
enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing countries. We call
for increased efforts to strengthen forest governance frameworks and
means of implementation, in accordance with Non-Legally Binding
Instrument on All Types of Forests (NLBI) to achieve sustainable
forest management. To this end, we commit to improving the
livelihoods of people and communities by creating the conditions
needed for them to sustainably manage forests including through
strengthening cooperation arrangements in the areas of finance,
trade, transfer of environmentally sound technologies,
capacity-building and governance, as well as by promoting secure land
tenure, particularly decision-making and benefit sharing, in
accordance with national legislation and priorities.




194.
We call for urgent implementation of the Non-legally Binding
Instrument on all Types of Forests and the Ministerial Declaration of
the high-level segment of the ninth session of the United Nations
Forum on Forests on the occasion of the launch of the International
Year of Forests.




195.
 We recognize that the United Nations Forum on Forests, with its
universal membership and comprehensive mandate, plays a vital role in
addressing forest-related issues in a holistic and integrated manner,
and promoting international policy coordination and cooperation to
achieve sustainable forest management. We invite the Collaborative
Partnership on Forests to continue its support to the Forum and
encourage stakeholders to remain actively engaged in the work of the
Forum.




196.
 We stress the importance of integrating sustainable forest
management objectives and practices into the mainstream of economic
policy and decision-making, and to that end we commit to working
through the governing bodies of member organizations of the
Collaborative Partnership on Forests to integrate, as appropriate,
the sustainable management of all types of forests into their
strategies and programmes.




Biodiversity




197.
We reaffirm the intrinsic value of biological diversity, as well as
the ecological, genetic, social, economic, scientific, educational,
cultural, recreational and aesthetic values of biological diversity
and its critical role in maintaining ecosystems that provide
essential services, which are critical foundations for sustainable
development and human well-being. We recognize the severity of global
biodiversity loss and degradation of ecosystems and emphasize that
these undermine global development, affecting food security and
nutrition, provision of and access to water, health of the rural poor
and of people worldwide, including present and future generations.
This highlights the importance of the conservation of biodiversity,
enhancing habitat connectivity and building ecosystem resilience. We
recognize that traditional knowledge, innovations and practices of
indigenous peoples and local communities make an important
contribution to the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity,
and their wider application can support social well-being and
sustainable livelihoods. We further recognize that indigenous peoples
and local communities are often most directly dependent on
biodiversity and ecosystems and thus are often most immediately
affected by their loss and degradation.




198.
We reiterate our commitment to the achievement of the three
objectives of the Convention on Biological Diversity and call for
urgent actions that effectively reduce the rate of, halt and reverse
the loss of biodiversity. In this context, we affirm the importance
of implementing the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020, and
achieving the Aichi Biodiversity Targets adopted at the Tenth
Conference of the Parties to the Convention.




199.
We note the adoption of the Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic
Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from
Their Utilization, and we invite parties to the Convention on
Biological Diversity to ratify or accede to the Protocol, so as to
ensure its entry into force at the earliest possible opportunity. We
acknowledge the role of access and benefit-sharing arising from the
utilization of genetic resources in contributing to the conservation
and sustainable use of biological diversity, poverty eradication and
environmental sustainability.




200.
We welcome the Strategy for Resource Mobilization in support of the
achievement of the Convention on Biological Diversity's three
objectives, including the commitment to substantially increasing
resources from all sources in support of biodiversity, in accordance
with decisions taken at the Tenth Conference of the Parties.




201.
We support mainstreaming the consideration of the socio-economic
impacts and benefits of the conservation and sustainable use of
biodiversity and its components, as well as ecosystems that provide
essential services, into relevant programmes and policies at all
levels, in accordance with national legislation, circumstances and
priorities. We encourage investments, through appropriate incentives
and policies, which support the conservation and sustainable use of
biological diversity and restoration of degraded ecosystems,
consistent and in harmony with the Convention and other relevant
international obligations.




202.
We agree to promote international cooperation, and partnerships, as
appropriate, and information exchange, and in this context we welcome
the United Nations Decade on Biodiversity 2011-2020 for the purpose
of encouraging active involvement of all stakeholders in the
conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, as well as access
to and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the
utilization of genetic resources, with the vision of living in
harmony with nature.




203.
We recognize the important role of CITES (the Convention on
International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora),
an international agreement that stands at the intersection between
trade, environment and development; promotes the conservation and
sustainable use of biodiversity; should contribute to tangible
benefits for local people; and ensures that no species entering into
international trade is threatened with extinction. We recognize the
economic, social and environmental impacts of illicit trafficking in
wildlife where firm and strengthened action needs to be taken on both
the supply and demand sides. In this regard, we emphasize the
importance of effective international cooperation among relevant
multilateral environmental agreements and international
organizations. We further stress the importance of basing the listing
of species on agreed criteria.




204.
We take note of the establishment of the Intergovernmental
Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, and
invite an early commencement of its work, in order to provide the
best available policy-relevant information on biodiversity to assist
decision-makers.




Desertification,
land degradation and drought




205.
We recognize the economic and social significance of good land
management, including soil, particularly its contribution to economic
growth, biodiversity, sustainable agriculture and food security,
eradicating poverty, women’s empowerment, addressing climate change
and improving water availability. We stress that desertification,
land degradation, and drought are challenges of a global dimension
and continue to pose serious challenges to the sustainable
development of all countries, in particular developing countries. We
also stress the particular challenges this poses for Africa, and LDCs
and LLDCs. In this regard, we express deep concern for the
devastating consequences of cyclical drought and famine in Africa, in
particular in the Horn of Africa and the Sahel region, and call for
urgent action through short-, medium- and long-term measures at all
levels.




206.
We recognize the need for urgent action to reverse land degradation.
In view of this we will strive to achieve a land degradation neutral
world in the context of sustainable development.  This should act to
catalyze financial resources from a range of public and private
sources.




207.
We reaffirm our resolve under the United Nations Convention to Combat
Desertification (UNCCD) to take coordinated action nationally,
regionally and internationally, to monitor, globally, land
degradation and restore degraded lands in arid, semi-arid and dry sub
humid areas. We resolve to support and strengthen the implementation
of the UNCCD and its 10-Year Strategic Plan and Framework
(2008-2018), including through mobilizing adequate, predictable and
timely financial resources.  We note the importance of mitigating the
effects of desertification, land degradation and drought, including
by preserving and developing oases, restoring degraded lands,
improving soil quality and improving water management, in order to
contribute to sustainable development and poverty eradication. In
this regard, we encourage and recognize the importance of
partnerships and initiatives for the safeguarding of land resources. 
We also encourage capacity building, extension training programmes,
and scientific studies and initiatives aimed at deepening
understanding and raising awareness of the economic, social and
environmental benefits of sustainable land management policies and
practices.




208.
We stress the importance of the further development and
implementation of scientifically based, sound and socially inclusive
methods and indicators for monitoring and assessing the extent of
desertification, land degradation and drought, as well as the
importance of efforts underway to promote scientific research and
strengthen the scientific base of activities to address
desertification and drought under the UNCCD. In this respect, we take
note of the decision of the COP10 of the UNCCD to establish an ad hoc
Working Group, taking into account regional balance, to discuss
specific options for the provision of scientific advice to its
Parties.




209.
We reiterate the need for cooperation through the sharing of climate
and weather information, and forecasting and early warning systems
related to desertification, land degradation and drought, as well as
to dust storms and sandstorms, at the global, regional and
sub-regional levels. In this regard, we invite States and relevant
organizations to cooperate in the sharing of related information,
forecasting and early warning systems.




Mountains




210.
 We recognize that the benefits derived from mountain regions are
essential for sustainable development. Mountain ecosystems play a
crucial role in providing water resources to a large portion of the
world’s population; fragile mountain ecosystems are particularly
vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change, deforestation
and forest degradation, land use change, land degradation, and
natural disasters; and mountain glaciers around the world are
retreating and getting thinner with increasing impacts on the
environment and human well-being.




211.
We further recognize that mountains are often home to communities,
including indigenous peoples and local communities, who have
developed sustainable uses of mountain resources.  They are, however,
often marginalized, and we therefore stress that continued effort
will be required to address poverty, food security and nutrition,
social exclusion and environmental degradation in these areas. We
invite States to strengthen cooperative action with effective
involvement and sharing of experience of all relevant stakeholders,
by strengthening existing arrangements, agreements, and centers of
excellence for sustainable mountain development, as well as exploring
new arrangements and agreements, as appropriate.




212. We
call for greater efforts toward the conservation of mountain
ecosystems, including their biodiversity. We encourage States to
adopt a long-term vision and holistic approaches, including through
incorporating mountain-specific policies into national sustainable
development strategies which could include, inter
alia,
poverty reduction plans and programmes in mountain areas,
particularly in developing countries. In this regard, we call for
international support for sustainable mountain development in
developing countries




Chemicals
and waste




213.
We recognize that sound management of chemicals is crucial for the
protection of human health and the environment. We further recognize
that growing global production and use of chemicals and prevalence in
the environment calls for increased international cooperation. We
reaffirm our aim to achieve by 2020 sound management of chemicals
throughout their life cycle and of hazardous waste in ways that lead
to minimization of significant adverse effects on human health and
the environment, as set out in the Johannesburg Plan of
Implementation. We also reaffirm our commitment to an approach for
the sound management of chemicals and waste at all levels that
responds in an effective, efficient, coherent and coordinated manner
to new and emerging issues and challenges, and encourage further
progress across countries and regions in order to fill the gaps in
implementation of commitments.




214.
We call for the effective implementation and strengthening of the
Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM) as
part of a robust, coherent, effective and efficient system for the
sound management of chemicals throughout their life cycle including
to respond to emerging challenges.




215.
We are deeply concerned that many countries, in particular least
developed countries, lack the capacity for sound management of
chemicals and waste throughout their life-cycle. Additional efforts
are needed to enhance work towards strengthening capacities,
including through partnerships, technical assistance and improved
governance structures. We encourage countries and organizations which
have made progress toward achieving the goal of sound management of
chemicals by 2020 to assist other countries by sharing knowledge,
experience and best practices.




216.
We commend the increased coordination and cooperation among chemicals
and waste conventions, namely the Basel Convention, the Rotterdam
Convention and the Stockholm Convention, and encourage continued
enhanced coordination and cooperation among them and with SAICM. We
take note of the important role of the Basel Convention regional and
coordinating centers and the Stockholm Convention regional and
sub-regional centers.




217.
We commend existing and call for continued, new and innovative
public-private partnerships among industry, governments, academia and
other non-governmental stakeholders aiming to enhance capacity and
technology for environmentally sound chemicals and waste management,
including for waste prevention.




218.
We recognize the importance of adopting a life-cycle approach and of
further development and implementation of policies for resource
efficiency and environmentally sound waste management. We therefore
commit to further reduce, reuse and recycle waste (3Rs) as well as to
increase energy recovery from waste with a view to managing the
majority of global waste in an environmentally sound manner and where
possible as a resource. Solid wastes, such as electronic waste and
plastics, pose particular challenges which should be addressed. We
call for the development and enforcement of comprehensive national
and local waste management policies, strategies, laws and
regulations.




219.
We urge countries and other stakeholders to take all possible
measures to prevent the unsound management of hazardous wastes and
their illegal dumping, particularly in countries where the capacity
to deal with these wastes is limited, in a manner consistent with
countries’ obligations under relevant international instruments. In
this context, we welcome the relevant decisions taken at the 10th COP
of the Basel Convention.




220.
We recognize the importance of science-based assessment of the risks
posed by chemicals to human beings and the environment, and of
reducing human and environmental exposure to hazardous chemicals. We
encourage the development of environmentally sound and safer
alternatives to hazardous chemicals in products and processes. To
this end, we encourage, inter
alia,
life-cycle assessment, public information, extended producer
responsibility, research and development, sustainable design and
knowledge sharing, as appropriate.




221.
We welcome the ongoing negotiating process on a global legally
binding instrument on mercury to address the risks to human health
and the environment and call for a successful outcome of the
negotiations.




222.
We recognize that the phase-out of ozone depleting substances (ODS)
is resulting in a rapid increase in the use and release of high
global warming potential hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) to the
environment. We support a gradual phase-down in the consumption and
production of HFCs.




223.
We acknowledge that sustainable and adequate long-term funding is a
key element for the sound management of chemicals and waste, in
particular in developing countries. In this regard, we welcome the
Consultative Process on Financing Options for Chemicals and Waste,
initiated to consider the need for heightened efforts to increase the
political priority accorded to sound management of chemicals and
waste and the increased need for sustainable, predictable, adequate
and accessible financing for the chemicals and waste agenda. We look
forward to the forthcoming proposals by the Executive Director of
UNEP, which will be considered by the International Conference on
Chemicals Management and 27th session of the UNEP Governing Council.




Sustainable
consumption and production




224.
We recall the commitments made in the Rio Declaration, Agenda 21 and
the JPOI on sustainable consumption and production and, in
particular, the request in chapter 3 of JPOI, to encourage and
promote the development of a 10 Year Framework Programmes (10YFP). We
recognize that fundamental changes in the way societies consume and
produce are indispensable for achieving global sustainable
development.




225.
Countries reaffirm the commitments they have made to phase out
harmful and inefficient fossil fuel subsidies that encourage wasteful
consumption and undermine sustainable development. We invite others
to consider rationalizing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by
removing market distortions, including restructuring taxation and
phasing out harmful subsidies, where they exist, to reflect their
environmental impacts, with such policies taking fully into account
the specific needs and conditions of developing countries, with the
aim of minimizing the possible adverse impacts on their development
and in a manner that protects the poor and the affected communities.




226.
We adopt the 10-Year Framework of Programmes (10YFP) on sustainable
consumption and production (SCP) as contained in document A/CONF/XX
and highlight that the programmes included in the 10YFP are
voluntary. We invite the UN General Assembly at its 67th Session to
designate a UN Member State body to take any necessary steps to fully
operationalize the framework.




Mining




227.
We acknowledge that minerals and metals make a major contribution to
the world economy and modern societies. We note that mining
industries are important to all countries with mineral resources, in
particular developing countries. We also note that mining offers the
opportunity to catalyze broad-based economic development, reduce
poverty and assist countries in meeting internationally agreed
development goals, including the MDGs, when managed effectively and
properly. We acknowledge that countries have the sovereign right to
develop their mineral resources according to their national
priorities, and responsibility regarding the exploitation of
resources described in the Rio Principles. We further acknowledge
that mining activities should maximize social and economic benefits
as well as effectively address negative environmental and social
impacts. In this regard, we recognize that governments need strong
capacities to develop, manage, and regulate their mining industries
in the interest of sustainable development.




228.
We recognize the importance of strong and effective legal and
regulatory frameworks, policies and practices for the mining sector
that deliver economic and social benefits and include effective
safeguards that reduce social and environmental impacts as well as
conserve biodiversity and ecosystems including during post mining
closure. We call on governments and businesses to promote the
continuous improvement of accountability and transparency, as well as
the effectiveness of the relevant existing mechanisms to prevent the
illicit financial flows from mining activities.




Education




229.
We reaffirm our commitments to the right to education and in this
regard, we commit to strengthen international cooperation to achieve
universal access to primary education, particularly for developing
countries. We further reaffirm that full access to quality education
at all levels is an essential condition for achieving sustainable
development, poverty eradication, gender equality and women’s
empowerment as well as human development, for the attainment of the
internationally agreed development goals including the Millennium
Development Goals, as well as for the full participation of both
women and men, in particular young people. In this regard, we stress
the need for ensuring equal access to education for persons with
disabilities, indigenous peoples, local communities, ethnic
minorities and people living in rural areas.




230.
We recognize that the younger generations are the custodians of the
future, as well as the need for better quality and access to
education beyond the primary level. We therefore resolve to improve
the capacity of our education systems to prepare people to pursue
sustainable development, including through enhanced teacher training,
the development of curricula around sustainability, the development
of training programmes that prepare students for careers in fields
related to sustainability, and more effective use of information and
communication technologies to enhance learning outcomes. We call for
enhanced cooperation among schools, communities and authorities in
efforts to promote access to quality education at all levels.




231.
We encourage Member States to promote Sustainable Development
awareness among youth, inter
alia,
by promoting programmes for non-formal education in accordance with
the goals of the United Nations Decade of Education for Sustainable
Development.




232.
We emphasize the importance of greater international cooperation to
improve access to education including through building and
strengthening education infrastructure, increasing investment in
education particularly investment to improve the quality of education
for all in developing countries. We encourage international
educational exchanges and partnerships, including the creation of
fellowships and scholarships to help achieve global education goals.




233.
We resolve to promote Education for Sustainable Development and to
integrate sustainable development more actively into education beyond
the United Nations Decade of Education for Sustainable Development
(2005-2014).




234.
We strongly encourage educational institutions to consider adopting
good practises in sustainability management on their campuses and in
their communities with the active participation of inter
alia
students, teachers, and local partners, and teaching sustainable
development as an integrated component across disciplines.




235.
We underscore the importance of supporting educational institutions,
especially higher educational institutions in developing countries,
to carry out research and innovation for sustainable development,
including in the field of education, to develop quality and
innovative programmes, including entrepreneurship and business skills
training, professional, technical, vocational training and lifelong
learning, geared to bridging skills gaps for advancing national
sustainable development objectives.




Gender
equality and women’s empowerment




236.
We reaffirm women’s vital role and full and equal participation and
leadership in all areas of sustainable development, and decide to
accelerate the implementation of our respective commitments in this
regard as contained in the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms
of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) as well as Agenda 21, the
Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and the Millennium
Declaration.




237.
We recognize that, although progress on gender equality has been made
in some areas, the potential of women to engage in, contribute to and
benefit from sustainable development as leaders, participants and
agents of change has not been fully realised due, inter
alia,
to persistent social, economic, and political inequalities. We
support prioritizing measures to promote gender equality and women’s
empowerment in all spheres of our societies, including the removal of
barriers to their full and equal participation in decision-making and
management at all levels, and we emphasize the impact of setting
specific targets and implementing temporary measures, as appropriate,
for substantially increasing the number of women in leadership
positions, with the aim of achieving gender parity.




238.
We resolve to unlock women’s potential as drivers of sustainable
development, including through the repeal of discriminatory laws and
removal of formal barriers, ensuring equal access to justice and
legal support, the reform of institutions to ensure competence and
capacity for gender mainstreaming and the development and adoption of
innovative and special approaches, to address informal, harmful
practices that act as barriers to gender equality. In this regard, we
commit to creating an enabling environment for improving the
situation of women and girls everywhere, particularly in rural areas
and local communities and among indigenous peoples and ethnic
minorities.




239.
We commit to actively promote the collection, analysis and use of
gender sensitive indicators and sex disaggregated data in policy,
programme design and monitoring frameworks, in accordance with
national circumstances and capacities, in order to deliver on the
promise of sustainable development for all.




240.
We are committed to women’s equal rights and opportunities in
political and economic decision-making and resource allocation and to
remove any barriers that prevent women from being full participants
in the economy. We resolve to undertake legislation and
administrative reforms to give women equal rights with men to
economic resources, including access to ownership and control over
land and other forms of property, credit, inheritance, natural
resources and appropriate new technology.




241.
We are committed to promote the equal access of women and girls to
education, basic services, economic opportunities and health care
services, including addressing women’s sexual and reproductive
health, and ensuring universal access to safe, effective, affordable
and acceptable modern methods of family planning. In this regard, we
reaffirm our commitment to implement the Programme of Action of the
International Conference on Population and Development and the key
actions for the further implementation of the Programme of Action of
the International Conference on Population and Development.




242.
We recognize that gender equality and the effective participation of
women are important for effective action on all aspects of
sustainable development.




243.
We support the work of the UN system, including UN Women, in
promoting and achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment in
all aspects of life, including with respect to the linkages between
gender equality and women’s empowerment and the promotion of
sustainable development. We support UN Women leading, coordinating
and promoting the accountability of the UN system in this regard.




244.
We invite donors, international organizations including the UN System
organizations, as well as international financial institutions,
regional banks, major groups including the private sector, to
integrate fully commitments and considerations on gender equality and
women’s empowerment and to ensure the participation of women and
effective gender mainstreaming in their decision making and full
programming cycle. We invite them to play a supportive role in
developing countries’ efforts to integrate fully commitments and
considerations on gender equality and women’s empowerment and
ensure the participation of women and the effective gender
mainstreaming in their decision making, programme planning, budgeting
and implementation, in accordance with national legislation,
priorities and capacities.




B.
Sustainable development goals




245.
We underscore that the MDGs are a useful tool in focusing achievement
of specific development gains as part of a broad development vision
and framework for the development activities of the United Nations,
for national priority setting and for mobilisation of stakeholders
and resources towards common goals. We therefore remain firmly
committed to their full and timely achievement.




246.
We recognize that the development of goals could also be useful for
pursuing focused and coherent action on sustainable development. We
further recognize the importance and utility of a set of sustainable
development goals (SDGs), which are based on Agenda 21 and
Johannesburg Plan of Implementation, fully respect all Rio
Principles, taking into account different national circumstances,
capacities and priorities, are consistent with international law,
build upon commitments already made, and contribute to the full
implementation of the outcomes of all major Summits in the economic,
social and environmental fields, including this outcome document.
These goals should address and incorporate in a balanced way all
three dimensions of sustainable development and their inter-linkages.
They should be coherent with and integrated in the United Nations
Development Agenda beyond 2015, thus contributing to the achievement
of sustainable development and serving as a driver for implementation
and mainstreaming of sustainable development in the United Nations
system as a whole. The development of these goals should not divert
focus or effort from the achievement of the Millennium Development
Goals.




247.
We also underscore that SDGs should be action-oriented, concise and
easy to communicate, limited in number, aspirational, global in
nature and universally applicable to all countries while taking into
account different national realities, capacities and levels of
development and respecting national policies and priorities. We also
recognize that the goals should address and be focused on priority
areas for the achievement of sustainable development, being guided by
this outcome document. Governments should drive implementation with
the active involvement of all relevant stakeholders, as appropriate.




248.
We resolve to establish an inclusive and transparent
intergovernmental process on SDGs that is open to all stakeholders
with a view to developing global sustainable development goals to be
agreed by the United Nations General Assembly. An open working group
shall be constituted no later than the opening of the 67th session of
the UNGA and shall comprise of thirty representatives, nominated by
Member States through the five UN regional groups with the aim of
achieving fair, equitable and balanced geographic representation. At
the outset, this open working group will decide on its method of
work, including developing modalities, to ensure the full involvement
of relevant stakeholders and expertise from civil society, the
scientific community and the UN system in its work in order to
provide a diversity of perspectives and experience. It will submit a
report to the 68th session of the UNGA containing a proposal for
sustainable development goals for consideration and appropriate
action.




249.
The process needs to be coordinated and coherent with the processes
considering the post-2015 development agenda. The initial input to
the work of the working group will be provided by the United Nations
Secretary General in consultations with national governments. In
order to provide technical support to this process and to the work of
the working group, we request the UN Secretary-General to ensure all
necessary input and support to this work from the UN system including
through establishing an inter-agency technical support team and
expert panels as needed, drawing on all relevant expert advice.
Reports on the progress of work will be made regularly to the General
Assembly.




250.
We recognize that progress towards the achievement of the goals needs
to be assessed and accompanied by targets and indicators while taking
into account different national circumstances, capacities and levels
of development.




251.
We recognize that there is a need for global, integrated and
scientifically-based information on sustainable development. In this
regard, we request the relevant bodies of the United Nations system,
within their respective mandates, to support regional economic
commissions to collect and compile national inputs in order to inform
this global effort. We further commit to mobilizing financial
resources and capacity building, particularly for developing
countries, to achieve this endeavor.







VI.
Means of implementation




252.
We reaffirm that the means of implementation identified in Agenda 21,
the Programme for the Further Implementation of Agenda 21,
Johannesburg Plan of Implementation, the Monterrey Consensus of the
International Conference on Financing for Development and the Doha
Declaration on Financing for Development are indispensable for
achieving full and effective translation of sustainable development
commitments into tangible sustainable development outcomes. We
reiterate that each country has primary responsibility for its own
economic and social development and that the role of national
policies, domestic resources and development strategies cannot be
overemphasized. We reaffirm that developing countries need additional
resources for sustainable development. We recognize the need for
significant mobilization of resources from a variety of sources and
effective use of financing, in order to promote sustainable
development. We acknowledge that good governance and the rule of law
at the national and international levels are essential for sustained,
inclusive and equitable economic growth, sustainable development and
the eradication of poverty and hunger.




A.
Finance 





253.
We call on all countries to prioritize sustainable development in the
allocation of resources in accordance with national priorities and
needs, and we recognize the crucial importance of enhancing financial
support from all sources for sustainable development for all
countries, in particular developing countries. We recognize the
importance of international, regional and national financial
mechanisms including those accessible to sub-national and local
authorities to implement sustainable development programmes and call
for their strengthening and implementation. New partnerships and
innovative sources of financing can play a role in complementing
sources of financing for sustainable development. We encourage their
further exploration and use, alongside the traditional means of
implementation.




254.
We recognize the need for significant mobilization of resources from
a variety of sources and effective use of financing, to give strong
support to developing countries in their efforts to promote
sustainable development, including through actions undertaken
according to the outcome of UN Conference on Sustainable Development
and for achieving sustainable development goals. 





255.
We agree to establish an intergovernmental process under the United
Nations General Assembly, with technical support from the UN System,
and in open and broad consultation with relevant international and
regional financial institutions and other relevant stakeholders. The
process will assess financing needs, consider the effectiveness,
consistency and synergies of existing instruments and frameworks, and
evaluate additional initiatives, with a view to prepare a report
proposing options on an effective Sustainable Development Financing
Strategy to facilitate the mobilization of resources and their
effective use in achieving sustainable development objectives. 





256.
An intergovernmental committee, comprising thirty experts nominated
by regional groups, with equitable geographical representation, will
implement this process, concluding its work by 2014.




257.
We request the General Assembly to consider this report and take
appropriate actions.




258.
We recognize that the fulfilment of all ODA commitments is crucial,
including the commitments by many developed countries to achieve the
target of 0.7 per cent of GNP for ODA to developing countries by
2015, as well as a target of 0.15 to 0.20 per cent of GNP for ODA to
least developed countries. To reach their agreed timetables, donor
countries should take all necessary and appropriate measures to raise
the rate of aid disbursements to meet their existing commitments. We
urge those developed countries that have not yet done so to make
additional concrete efforts towards the target of 0.7 per cent of GNP
for ODA to developing countries, including the specific target of
0.15 to 0.20 per cent of GNP for ODA to least developed countries, in
accordance with their commitments. To build on progress achieved in
ensuring that ODA is used effectively, we stress the importance of
democratic governance, improved transparency and accountability, and
managing for results. We strongly encourage all donors to establish,
as soon as possible, rolling indicative timetables that illustrate
how they aim to reach their goals, in accordance with their
respective budget allocation process. We stress the importance of
mobilizing greater domestic support in developed countries towards
the fulfillment of their commitments, including through raising
public awareness, and by providing data on the development impact of
aid provided and demonstrating tangible results.




259.
We welcome increasing efforts to improve the quality of ODA and to
increase its development impact. We also recognize the need to
improve development effectiveness, increase programme-based
approaches, use country systems for activities managed by the public
sector, reduce transaction costs and improve mutual accountability
and transparency and, in this regard, we call upon all donors to
untie aid to the maximum extent. We will further make development
more effective and predictable by providing developing countries with
regular and timely, indicative information on planned support in the
medium term. We recognize the importance of efforts by developing
countries to strengthen leadership of their own development, national
institutions, systems and capacity to ensure the best results of
effective development by engaging with parliaments and citizens in
shaping those policies and deepening engagement with civil society
organizations. We should also bear in mind that there is no
one-size-fits-all formula that will guarantee development
effectiveness. The specific situation of each country needs to be
fully considered. 





260.
We note that the aid architecture has significantly changed in the
current decade. New aid providers and novel partnership approaches,
which utilize new modalities of cooperation, have contributed to
increasing the flow of resources. Further, the interplay of
development assistance with private investment, trade and new
development actors provides new opportunities for aid to leverage
private resource flows. We reiterate our support for South-South
cooperation, as well as triangular cooperation, which provides much
needed additional resources to the implementation of development
programmes. We recognize the importance and different history and
particularities of South-South cooperation and stress that
South-South cooperation should be seen as an expression of solidarity
and cooperation between countries, based on their shared experiences
and objectives. Both forms of cooperation support a development
agenda that addresses the particular needs and expectations of
developing countries. We also recognize that South-South cooperation
complements rather than substitutes for North-South cooperation. We
acknowledge the role played by middle-income developing countries as
providers and recipients of development cooperation. 





261.
We invite the international financial institutions, within their
respective mandates, to continue providing financial resources,
including through specific mechanisms for the promotion of
sustainable development and poverty eradication in developing
countries.




262.
We recognize that greater coherence and coordination among the
various funding mechanisms and initiatives related to sustainable
development is crucial. We reiterate the importance of ensuring that
developing countries have steady and predictable access to adequate
financing from all sources to promote sustainable development.




263.
We recognize that ongoing serious global financial and economic
challenges carry the possibility of undoing years of hard work and
gains made in relation to the debt of developing countries. We
further recognize the need to assist developing countries in ensuring
long-term debt sustainability through coordinated policies aimed at
fostering debt financing, debt relief and debt restructuring, as
appropriate.




264.
We stress the need for adequate funding for the operational
activities of the United Nations development system as well as the
need to make funding more predictable, effective and efficient as
part of wider efforts to mobilize new, additional and predictable
resources to achieve the objectives that we have set forth in this
Declaration.




265.
We recognize the important achievements of the GEF over the last
twenty years in funding environmental projects and welcome important
reform processes that the Global Environment Facility (GEF) has
carried out during recent years and we call for its further
improvement and encourage the GEF to take additional steps within its
mandate to make resources more accessible to meet country needs for
the national implementation of their international environmental
commitments. We support further simplification of procedures and
assistance to developing countries, in particular in assisting the
least developed countries, Africa and SIDS in accessing resources
from the GEF, and enhanced coordination with other instruments and
programmes focusing on environmentally sustainable development. 





266.
We stress that fighting corruption and illicit financial flows at
both the national and international levels is a priority and that
corruption is a serious barrier to effective resource mobilization
and allocation and diverts resources away from activities that are
vital for poverty eradication, the fight against hunger and
sustainable development. We are determined to take urgent and
decisive steps to continue to combat corruption in all of its
manifestations, which requires strong institutions at all levels, and
urge all States that have not yet done so to consider ratifying or
acceding to the United Nations Convention against Corruption and
begin its implementation.




267.
We consider that innovative financing mechanisms can make a positive
contribution in assisting developing countries to mobilize additional
resources for financing for development on a voluntary basis. Such
financing should supplement and not be a substitute for traditional
sources of financing. While recognizing the considerable progress in
innovative sources of financing for development, we call for
scaling-up of present initiatives, where appropriate. 





268.
We recognize that a dynamic, inclusive, well-functioning, socially
and environmentally responsible private sector is a valuable
instrument that can offer a crucial contribution to economic growth
and reducing poverty and promoting sustainable development. In order
to foster private-sector development, we shall continue to pursue
appropriate national policy and regulatory frameworks in a manner
consistent with national laws to encourage public and private
initiatives, including at the local level, to foster a dynamic and
well-functioning business sector, and to facilitate entrepreneurship
and innovation including among women, the poor and the vulnerable. We
will work to improve income growth and distribution, inter
alia
through raising productivity, empowering women and protecting labour
rights, and taxation. We recognize that the appropriate role of
Government in relation to the promotion and regulation of the private
sector will vary from country to country depending on national
circumstances. 





B.
Technology




269.
We emphasize the importance of technology transfer to developing
countries and recall the provisions on technology transfer, finance,
access to information, and intellectual property rights as agreed in
the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation, in particular its call to
promote, facilitate and finance, as appropriate, access to and the
development, transfer and diffusion of environmentally sound
technologies and corresponding know-how, in particular to developing
countries, on favourable terms, including on concessional and
preferential terms, as mutually agreed. We also take note of the
further evolution of discussions and agreements on these issues since
the JPOI.




270.
We stress the importance of access by all countries to
environmentally sound technologies, new knowledge, know-how and
expertise. We further stress the importance of cooperative action on
technology innovation, research and development. We agree to explore
modalities in the relevant fora for enhanced access to
environmentally sound technologies by developing countries.




271.
We underline the need for enabling environments for the development,
adaptation, dissemination, and transfer of environmentally sound
technologies. In this context, we note the role of foreign direct
investment, international trade and international cooperation in the
transfer of environmentally sound technologies. We engage in our
countries as well as through international cooperation to promote
investment in science, innovation, and technology for sustainable
development.




272.
We recognize the importance of strengthened national, scientific and
technological capacities for sustainable development. This can help
countries, especially developing countries, to develop their own
innovative solutions, scientific research and new, environmentally
sound technologies, with the support of the international community.
To this end, we support building science and technology capacity,
with both women and men as contributors and beneficiaries, including
through collaboration among research institutions, universities, the
private sector, governments, non-governmental organizations, and
scientists.




273.
We request relevant UN agencies to identify options for a
facilitation mechanism that promotes the development, transfer and
dissemination of clean and environmentally sound technologies by,
inter
alia,
assessing technology needs of developing countries, options to
address them and capacity building. We request the UN Secretary
General, on the basis of the options identified and taking into
account existing models, to make recommendations regarding the
facilitation mechanism to the 67th Session of the UN General
Assembly.




274.
We recognize the importance of space-technology-based data, in situ
monitoring, and reliable geospatial information for sustainable
development policy-making, programming and project operations. In
this context, we note the relevance of global mapping and recognize
the efforts in developing global environmental observing systems,
including by the Eye on Earth network and through the Global Earth
Observation System of Systems. We recognize the need to support
developing countries in their efforts to collect environmental data.




275.
We recognize the importance of strengthening international, regional
and national capacities in research and technology assessment,
especially in view of the rapid development and possible deployment
of new technologies that may also have unintended negative impacts,
in particular on biodiversity and health, or other unforeseen
consequences.




276.
We recognize the need to facilitate informed policy decision-making
on sustainable development issues and in this regard to strengthen
the science-policy interface.




C.
Capacity building




277.
We emphasize the need for enhanced capacity building for sustainable
development and, in this regard, we call for strengthening technical
and scientific cooperation including North-South, South-South and
triangular cooperation. We reiterate the importance of human resource
development, including training, exchange of experiences and
expertise, knowledge transfer and technical assistance for
capacity-building, which involves strengthening institutional
capacity, including planning, management and monitoring capacities.




278.
We call for the continued and focused implementation of the UNEP Bali
Strategic Plan for Technology Support and Capacity Building. 





279.
We encourage the participation and representation of men and women
scientists and researchers from developing and developed countries in
processes related to global environmental and sustainable development
assessment and monitoring, with the purpose of enhancing national
capabilities and the quality of research for decision- and
policy-making processes.




280.
We invite all relevant agencies of the United Nations system and
other relevant international organizations to support developing
countries and, in particular, least developed countries in
capacity-building for developing resource-efficient and inclusive
economies, including through:

(a)
sharing sustainable practices in various economic sectors; 


(b)
enhancing knowledge and capacity to integrate disaster risk reduction
and resilience into development plans; 


(c)
supporting North-South, South-South and triangular cooperation for
the transition to a resource efficient economy; and 


(d)
promoting public-private partnerships. 





D.
Trade 





281.
We reaffirm that international trade is an engine for development and
sustained economic growth, and also reaffirm the critical role that a
universal, rules-based, open, non-discriminatory and equitable
multilateral trading system, as well as meaningful trade
liberalization, can play in stimulating economic growth and
development worldwide, thereby benefiting all countries at all stages
of development, as they advance towards sustainable development. In
this context, we remain focused on achieving progress in addressing a
set of important issues, such as, inter
alia,
trade distorting subsidies and trade in environmental goods and
services. 





282.
We urge the Members of the WTO to redouble their efforts to achieve
an ambitious, balanced and development-oriented conclusion to the
Doha Development Agenda, while respecting the principles of
transparency, inclusiveness and consensual decision-making, with a
view to strengthen the multilateral trading system. In order to
effectively participate in the WTO work programme and fully realize
trade opportunities, developing countries need assistance and
enhanced cooperation of all relevant stakeholders.




E.
Registry of commitments




283.
We welcome the commitments voluntarily entered into at Rio+20 and
throughout 2012 by all stakeholders and their networks to implement
concrete policies, plans, programs, projects and actions to promote
sustainable development and poverty eradication. We invite the
Secretary-General to compile these commitments and facilitate access
to other registries that have compiled commitments, in an
internet-based registry. The registry should make information about
the commitments fully transparent and accessible to the public, and
it should be periodically updated.