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GENERAL
A/CONF.151/26 (Vol.I)
12 August 1992
ORIGINAL: ENGLISH
REPORT OF THE UNITED NATIONS CONFERENCE ON
ENVIRONMENT AND DEVELOPMENT
(Rio de Janeiro, 3-14 June 1992)
Chapter 1
PREAMBLE*
1.1. Humanity stands at a defining moment in history. We are
confronted with a perpetuation of disparities between and within
nations, a worsening of poverty, hunger, ill health and illiteracy, and
the continuing deterioration of the ecosystems on which we depend for
our well-being. However, integration of environment and development
concerns and greater attention to them will lead to the fulfilment of
basic needs, improved living standards for all, better protected and
managed ecosystems and a safer, more prosperous future. No nation can
achieve this on its own; but together we can - in a global partnership
for sustainable development.
1.2. This global partnership must build on the premises of General
Assembly resolution 44/228 of 22 December 1989, which was adopted when
the nations of the world called for the United Nations Conference on
Environment and Development, and on the acceptance of the need to take
a balanced and integrated approach to environnment and development
questions.
1.3. Agenda 21 addresses the pressing problems of today and also aims
at preparing the world for the challenges of the next century. It
reflects a global consensus and political commitment at the highest
level on development and environment cooperation. Its successful
implementation is first and foremost the responsibility of Governments.
National strategies, plans, policies and processes are crucial in
achieving this. International cooperation should support and
supplement such national efforts. In this context, the United Nations
system has a key role to play. Other international, regional and
subregional organizations are also called upon to contribute to this
effort. The broadest public participation and the active involvement
of the non-governmental organizations and other groups should also be
encouraged.
1.4. The developmental and environmental objectives of Agenda 21 will
require a substantial flow of new and additional financial resources to
developing countries, in order to cover the incremental costs for the
actions they have to undertake to deal with global environmental
problems and to accelerate sustainable development. Financial
resources are also required for strengthening the capacity of
international institutions for the implementation of Agenda 21. An
indicative order-of-magnitude assessment of costs is included in each
of the programme areas. This assessment will need to be examined and
refined by the relevant implementing agencies and organizations.
1.5. In the implementation of the relevant programme areas identified
in Agenda 21, special attention should be given to the particular
circumstances facing the economies in transition. It must also be
recognized that these countries are facing unprecedented challenges in
transforming their economies, in some cases in the midst of
considerable social and political tension.
1.6. The programme areas that constitute Agenda 21 are described in
terms of the basis for action, objectives, activities and means of
implementation. Agenda 21 is a dynamic programme. It will be carried
out by the various actors according to the different situations,
capacities and priorities of countries and regions in full respect of
all the principles contained in the Rio Declaration on Environment and
Development. It could evolve over time in the light of changing needs
and circumstances. This process marks the beginning of a new global
partnership for sustainable development.
* * * * *
* When the term "Governments" is used, it will be deemed to
include the European Economic Community within its areas of competence.
Throughout Agenda 21 the term "environmentally sound" means
"environmentally safe and sound", in particular when applied to the
terms "energy sources", "energy supplies", "energy systems" and
"technology" or "technologies".
END OF CHAPTER 1
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