Aryo barzan
the
Marzban
Days to Remember
World Environment Day
Led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and held annually on 5 June since 1973, World Environment Day is the largest global platform for environmental public outreach and is celebrated by millions of people across the world. This year it is hosted by Sweden.
“Only One Earth” was the slogan for the first United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, held in Stockholm in 1972. This put sustainable development on the global agenda and led to the establishment of World Environment Day. Fifty years later, Sweden is hosting Stockholm+50 from 2 to 3 June, and World Environment Day on 5 June.
.
International Plastic Bag Free Day
Plastic pollution is a global threat to natural environment and we have brought it on ourselves. It is estimated around 500 billion plastic bags are used on a global scale.
Just think about how many of these bags will end up littered all over the planet. This is having an extremely detrimental effect on the environment, wildlife and indeed human health.
The marine ecosystem in particular is suffering immensely as a result of plastic pollution. 31 species of marine mammals are known to have ingested marine plastic whilst over 100 species of sea birds have ingested plastic artefacts. Over 250 species have become entangled in plastic, whilst entanglement rates of approximately eight percent have been discovered in some sea lion and seal species.
World Wetlands Day
World Wetlands Day is an environmentally related celebration which dates back to the year of 1971 when several environmentalists gathered to reaffirm the protection and love for wetlands, which are the small environments of plant life and organisms found within water bodies that bring about ecological health in abundance to not only water bodies but environments as a whole.
World Wetlands Day is celebrated on the second day of February every year, though it was not originally celebrated until 1997.[3] This day serves to the influence and positive production that Wetlands have had on the world and in terms brings communities together for the benefit of Mother Nature. This day, also raises global awareness because wetlands play a significant role not only in people but in the planet.
International Day
of Action for Rivers
The International Day of Action for Rivers is celebrated every year on the 14th of March. The year 2022 marks the 25th anniversary of the International Day of Action for Rivers. The day aims to raise awareness about the value and importance of rivers as well as bring together people from across the world to discuss and spread awareness about conserving rivers, river management, pollution, and equitable access to clean and flowing water. The theme in 2022 is “The Importance of Rivers for Biodiversity”.
International Day of Forest
The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21 March the International Day of Forests in 2012 to celebrate and raise awareness of the importance of all types of forests. Countries are encouraged to undertake local, national and international efforts to organize activities involving forests and trees, such as tree planting campaigns.
The organizers are the United Nations Forum on Forests and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with Governments, the Collaborative Partnership on Forests and other relevant organizations in the field.
World Environment Day
The Iranian Department of Environment is a governmental organization, under the supervision of the president. It is responsible for matters related to safeguarding the environment.
The origins of the department can be traced back to the Hunting Club of Iran, established in 1956. Years later, it developed into an organization overseeing hunting and fishing activities in the country. In 1971 the organization changed its name to its current one, and notably has hosted the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance in the city of Ramsar on the same year.
Our Future: Our Challenges
Preserving our natural environment has become one of the hot global issues in recent years. The necessity to survive on the earth has forced mankind to think about his survival and consider it as a serious social political discussion, so that he can be the saviour of the earth and its creatures by preventing the harmonic disruption of the natural system that governs the earth. Earth, water, air and man are the interconnected arms of life that must be kept in balance and harmony. The collapse of one of these arms disrupts the entire framework of the philosophy of life on earth.
Environmental issues encompass a wide range of concerns, some of which are directly related to natural processes, while others are influenced by human activities. It is important to note that the distinction between "natural-related" and "man-made" issues is not always clear-cut, as human actions can have significant impacts on natural systems.
The environmental crisis, which has become a serious and challenging issue today, is the result of human interference and unreasonable exploitation of the surrounding nature. Today, a danger threatens the earth that humans will destroy their habitat. So that the extent and importance of this issue has aroused the attention of scientists to save it.
Climate change is a prominent environmental issue that is influenced by both natural and human factors. Natural processes such as volcanic eruptions and variations in solar radiation can contribute to changes in the Earth's climate. However, human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, have significantly accelerated the rate of climate change. The emission of greenhouse gases from these activities has caused a rise in global temperatures, leading to various consequences like extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and shifts in ecosystems.
Actions to take:
In order to avoid the absolute destruction of the environment, we all must understand the important fact that technological progress and economic development must have a sustainable process and that not only the current generations, but also the future generations can benefit from its fruits. The development and the progress that the current generation enjoys should not be at the cost of destroying the lives of future generations who are not present to defend their rights.
Since, development is the right of all people, including men, women, old and young, and children, and not only should everyone benefit from its fruits but also they should also participate and be allowed to participate in the development process. So it can be said that sustainable development is not a choice, but the only way that allows all humanity to participate in a dignified life on this planet.
Our limited resources
Many of the earth's resources are especially vulnerable because they are influenced by human impacts across many countries. As a result of this, many attempts are made by countries to develop agreements that are signed by multiple governments to prevent damage or manage the impacts of human activity on natural resources. This can include agreements that impact factors such as climate, oceans, rivers and air pollution, biodiversity and desertification. These international environmental agreements are sometimes legally binding documents that have legal implications when they are not followed and, at other times, are more agreements in principle or are for use as codes of conduct.
It would be wise not to underestimate the environmental challenges we are facing. Despite the fact, these challenges are so many but the United Nations has managed to set them out in the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. On 25 September 2015,193 member states of the UN approved the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, an ambitious plan that sets out to achieve prosperity that is respectful of the planet and its inhabitants. All the twelve countries in our targeted zone also approved the 2030 UN Agenda for Sustainable Development.
This global plan of action adopted in 2015 puts forward specific measures to achieve a world that is fairer, more prosperous and more respectful of the environment within ten years. The Agenda is made up of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), further broken down into 169 targets, to be met by 2030.
All thirteen countries in our region have signed/ratified the UN Declaration (Global Plan of Action) and as part of it these countries have consented/agreed to Para. 3 of the UN Declaration which states the following:
3. We resolve, between now and 2030, to end poverty and hunger everywhere; to combat inequalities within and among countries; to build peaceful, just and inclusive societies; to protect human rights and promote gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls; and to ensure the lasting protection of the planet and its natural resources. We resolve also to create conditions for sustainable, inclusive and sustained economic growth, shared prosperity and decent work for all, taking into account different levels of national development and capacities.
We, at Aryobarzan, the Marzban, agree with the UN that, the 17 SDGs are interconnected which means that, the action in one area will affect outcomes in others, and that development must balance social, economic and environmental sustainability.
...
5. This is an Agenda of unprecedented scope and significance. It is accepted by all countries and is applicable to all, taking into account different national realities, capacities and levels of development and respecting national policies and priorities. These are universal goals and targets which involve the entire world, developed and developing countries alike. They are integrated and indivisible and balance the three dimensions of sustainable development.
All the thirteen countries in our target region have adopted (are signatories to) the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This means our countries have committed themselves to working towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. To be more specific, that implies our countries have committed themselves to end poverty and hunger everywhere; to combat inequalities within and among countries; to build peaceful, just and inclusive societies; to protect human rights and promote gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls; and to ensure the lasting protection of the planet and its natural resources. We resolve also to create conditions for sustainable, inclusive and sustained economic growth, shared prosperity and decent work for all, taking into account different levels of national development and capacities.
https://sdgs.un.org/2030agenda
We are a non-profit, non-government organisation. We aim to identify and address the environmental issues covering the Iranian plateau and the three water basins surrounding this plateau, namely Caspian Sea, Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. To do so, all the countries bordering the three water basins are slected we have selected
To assess how each of the countries in our specified region have achieved environmental sustainability, we adopt seven out of the seventeen goals set by the UN Sustainable Development Goal and apply them in our assessment. Seven years has now passed since the formation of the treaty (Sustainable Development Goals) and we need to find out how the thirteen countries in our region have performed.
These are just a few examples of the mineral resources in the Caspian Sea region, highlighting the diverse range of valuable minerals present in the area. The development and exploitation of these resources can bring significant economic benefits, but it is also important to ensure that these activities are carried out in an environmentally sustainable manner.
We at Aryobarzan, the Marzban are committed to publishing and disseminating balanced and informed news and analysis about the state of environment in three bodies of water, Caspian Sea, Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman and countries bordering these three water basins.
Our selected criteria for the assessment are (We assess the performance of our countries on the following criteria):
-
Clean water and sanitation
-
Life below water
-
Life on Land
-
Sustainable cities and communities
-
Responsible consumption and production
-
Climate action
-
Partnerships for the Goals
It is notable to mention that, prior to formation of the Global Action Plan in 2015, other international treaties were in place to protect natural biodiversity on land and water. We have pointed out number of these international treaties at the right hand side of the current page. The thirteen countries in our region are also signatories to these international treaties. Therefore, we also assess performance of each of thirteen countries in our specified region with regard to these treaties.
We strive to highlight and report any damage to the region biodiversity and natural habitat or breach of international treaties on preserving natural environment and biodiversity of the region by either any state or non-state actor. We invite you to submit your findings on these issues and suggestions to us.
1-Clean Water and Sanitation
1- Clean Water and Sanitation
The first selected criteria to asses the performance of the countries in
The Clean Water and Sanitation goal (Goal 6) of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aims to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all by 2030. This goal recognizes the critical importance of clean water and proper sanitation in promoting health, supporting economic development, and preserving ecosystems. Therefore, it aims to address the global challenges related to water scarcity, inadequate sanitation, water quality, and hygiene issues that impact human health, well-being, and sustainable development. The targets outlined under Goal 6 are to be achieved by 2030.
These are as follows:
-
Target 6.1: Access to Water: Ensure universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all by improving water quality, reducing pollution, and expanding access to safe water sources.
-
Target 6.2: Access to Sanitation: Achieve access to adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene for all and end open defecation, paying special attention to the needs of women and girls and those in vulnerable situations.
-
Target 6.3: Water Quality: Improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing the release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater, and substantially increasing recycling and safe reuse globally.
-
Target 6.4: Water Use Efficiency: Substantially increase water-use efficiency across all sectors and ensure sustainable withdrawals and supply of freshwater to address water scarcity and substantially reduce the number of people suffering from water scarcity.
-
Target 6.5: Integrated Water Resources Management: Implement integrated water resources management at all levels, including through transboundary cooperation as appropriate.
-
Target 6.6: Ecosystems Protection: Protect and restore water-related ecosystems, including mountains, forests, wetlands, rivers, aquifers, and lakes.
-
Target 6.a: International Cooperation: Expand international cooperation and capacity-building support to developing countries in water- and sanitation-related activities and programs, including water harvesting, desalination, water efficiency, wastewater treatment, recycling, and reuse technologies.
-
Target 6.b: Community Participation: Support and strengthen the participation of local communities in improving water and sanitation management.
Goal 6 emphasises the importance of achieving sustainable management of water resources, providing access to clean and safe water and sanitation facilities, ensuring hygiene practices, and promoting the protection of water-related ecosystems. These targets are aimed at addressing water-related challenges and achieving sustainable development by 2030.
Why it matters:
Goal 6 of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is focused on "Clean Water and Sanitation." It aims to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. This goal is crucial for several reasons:
-
Public Health: Access to clean water and proper sanitation is fundamental to human health. Lack of clean water and adequate sanitation facilities can lead to waterborne diseases, causing illness and even death, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.
-
Poverty Alleviation: Improved access to clean water and sanitation can contribute significantly to poverty reduction by enhancing health, reducing medical expenses, and enabling communities to focus on education and economic activities instead of spending time and resources on illness and fetching water from distant sources.
-
Gender Equality: In many communities, women and girls are primarily responsible for water collection. Providing access to clean water and sanitation can reduce the burden on women and girls, allowing them to pursue education and economic opportunities, thus promoting gender equality.
-
Environmental Sustainability: Goal 6 emphasizes the sustainable management of water resources and the protection of water-related ecosystems. This is essential for preserving biodiversity, maintaining healthy ecosystems, and ensuring a sustainable supply of clean water for future generations.
-
Global Development: Clean water and sanitation are essential for achieving other sustainable development goals, including those related to health (Goal 3), education (Goal 4), gender equality (Goal 5), sustainable cities and communities (Goal 11), and life below water and on land (Goals 14 and 15).
Ensuring access to clean water and sanitation facilities is critical not only for human well-being but also for achieving broader development goals, environmental sustainability, and social equity. It serves as a foundation for healthier, more resilient, and sustainable communities worldwide.
Earth's water resources, including rivers, lakes, oceans, and underground aquifers, are under stress in many regions. Humans need water for drinking, sanitation, agriculture, and industry; and contaminated water can spread illnesses and disease vectors, so clean water is both an environmental and a public health issue.
Water covers about three-quarters of Earth's surface and is a necessary element for life. During their constant cycling between land, the oceans, and the atmosphere, water molecules pass repeatedly through solid, liquid, and gaseous phases (ice, liquid water, and water vapor), but the total supply remains fairly constant. A water molecule can travel to many parts of the globe as it cycles.
Very little water is consumed in the sense of actually taking it out of the water cycle permanently, and unlike energy resources such as oil, water is not lost as a consequence of being used. However, human intervention often increases the flux of water out of one store of water into another, so it can deplete the stores of water that are most usable. For example, pumping groundwater for irrigation depletes aquifers by transferring the water to evaporation or river flow. Our activities also pollute water so that it is no longer suitable for human use and is harmful to ecosystems. There are three basic steps in the global water cycle: water precipitates from the atmosphere, travels on the surface and through groundwater to the oceans, and evaporates or transpires back to the atmosphere from land or evaporates from the oceans. Figure 2 illustrates yearly flow volumes in thousands of cubic kilometres.
Threat to water resources
Water pollution is the contamination of water bodies (e.g. lakes, rivers, oceans, aquifers and groundwater). This form of environmental degradation occurs when
pollutants are directly or indirectly discharged into water bodies without adequate treatment to remove harmful compounds.
Water pollution can come from a number of different sources. If the pollution comes from a single source, such as an oil spill, it is called point-source pollution. If the pollution comes from many sources, it is called nonpoint-source pollution.
Most types of pollution affect the immediate area surrounding the source. Sometimes the pollution may affect the environment hundreds of miles away from the source, such as nuclear waste, this is called transboundary pollution.
Various Forms of Pollution
Surface water pollution
Groundwater
Oxygen depleting
Microbiological
Suspended Matters
In 2016, the UN General Assembly proclaimed the period 2018–2028 the International Decade for Action on Water for Sustainable Development to further improve cooperation, partnerships and capacity development in response to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.The Water Action Decade is up for review (Nature Water volume 1, page209 (2023)
In December 2017 UN Member States adopted United Nations General Assembly resolution 71/222 on an International Decade for Action on ‘Water for Sustainable Development’ 2018-2028. It was launched on 22 March 2018.
In response to the ambitious 2030 Agenda, the Water Action Decade will accelerate efforts towards meeting water-related challenges, including limited access to safe water and sanitation, increasing pressure on water resources and ecosystems, and an exacerbated risk of droughts and floods.
On 22 March 2018, the United Nation General Assembly launched the Water Action Decade, to mobilize action that will help transform how we manage water.
The UN has set the following six targets/bench marks to ensure access to the water and sanitation for everyone.
2-LIFE BELOW WATER
2- Life Below Water
Our second selected criteria to asses the performance of the countries in our target region is life below water.
Goal 14 of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is "Life Below Water." It aims to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development.
The targets of Goal 14 encompass various aspects of marine conservation and sustainable use. Here are the specific targets:
-
Target 14.1: Marine Pollution: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution.
-
Target 14.2: Sustainable Fisheries: By 2020, sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts, including by overfishing, illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
-
Target 14.3: Ocean Acidification: Minimize and address the impacts of ocean acidification, including through enhanced scientific cooperation at all levels.
-
Target 14.4: Marine Protected Areas: By 2020, effectively regulate harvesting and end overfishing, illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, and protect marine and coastal ecosystems through the establishment of effectively managed, science-based, and representative marine protected areas.
-
Target 14.5: Subsidies for Sustainable Fisheries: By 2020, eliminate subsidies that contribute to overfishing, illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, and refrain from introducing new such subsidies, recognizing that appropriate and effective special and differential treatment for developing and least developed countries should be an integral part of the World Trade Organization fisheries subsidies negotiation.
-
Target 14.6: Marine Technology Transfer: Enhance the conservation and sustainable use of oceans and their resources by implementing international law, as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which provides the legal framework for the conservation and sustainable use of oceans and their resources.
-
Target 14.7: Sustainable Management of Coastal Ecosystems: By 2025, increase the economic benefits to Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and least developed countries from the sustainable use of marine resources, including through sustainable management of fisheries, aquaculture, and tourism.
-
Target 14.A: Marine Scientific Research: Increase scientific knowledge, develop research capacity, and transfer marine technology, taking into account the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Criteria and Guidelines on the Transfer of Marine Technology, to improve ocean health and to enhance the contribution of marine biodiversity to the development of developing countries, in particular, Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and least developed countries (LDCs).
-
Target 14.B: Conservation of Coastal and Marine Areas: Provide access for small-scale artisanal fishers to marine resources and markets.
These targets focus on mitigating marine pollution, conserving marine ecosystems, ensuring sustainable fisheries, protecting coastal areas, addressing ocean acidification, and enhancing scientific research and technological capacity to achieve sustainable development of oceans and marine resources.
WHY IT MATTERS?
This goal is crucial for several reasons:
-
Biodiversity Preservation: Oceans and marine ecosystems host a vast array of biodiversity, supporting a wide range of marine species. Goal 14 emphasizes the importance of conserving and protecting this biodiversity to maintain ecological balance and ensure the survival of various species.
-
Economic Importance: Oceans play a significant role in the global economy by providing livelihoods for millions of people through fisheries, tourism, shipping, and other marine-related industries. Sustainable management of marine resources supports economic growth and poverty alleviation.
-
Climate Regulation: Oceans play a critical role in regulating the Earth's climate. They absorb a substantial amount of carbon dioxide and help regulate temperatures, making them crucial in the fight against climate change.
-
Food Security: Healthy oceans are essential for sustaining fisheries and providing a source of food for billions of people worldwide. Ensuring sustainable fishing practices is vital for food security and nutrition.
-
Environmental Sustainability: Protecting marine ecosystems contributes to overall environmental sustainability. Healthy oceans support clean water, air, and biodiversity while aiding in carbon sequestration and maintaining a stable climate.
-
Human Well-being: Goal 14 directly impacts human well-being by promoting access to clean and healthy marine environments. This, in turn, enhances public health and quality of life, especially for coastal communities heavily reliant on marine resources.
-
International Collaboration: Addressing issues related to oceans and marine life requires global cooperation. Goal 14 encourages international partnerships, knowledge-sharing, and joint efforts to tackle challenges such as marine pollution, overfishing, and habitat degradation.
Goal 14 highlights the urgent need to protect marine ecosystems, conserve marine biodiversity, and promote sustainable management of marine resources. It is essential not only for the health of our oceans but also for the well-being of current and future generations, the global economy, and the overall health of our planet.
3. LIFE ON LAND
3- LIFE ON LAND
Our third selected criteria to asses the performance of the countries in our target region is
Why it matters:
Nature is critical to our survival: nature provides us with our oxygen, regulates our weather patterns, pollinates our crops, produces our food, feed and fibre. But it is under increasing stress. Human activity has altered almost 75 per cent of the earth’s
International Agreements
The United Nation Framework Convention
on Climate Change
With 197 Parties, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has 197 Parties and the parent treaty of the 1997 Kyoto Protocol. The Kyoto Protocol has been ratified by 192 of the UNFCCC Parties.
The ultimate objective of both treaties is to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that will prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system. Learn More
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
It is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment.
UN Environment work encompasses:
-
Assessing global, regional and national environmental conditions and trends
-
Developing international and national environmental instruments
-
Strengthening institutions for the wise management of the environment
UNEP also created The Global Programme of Action for the Protection of the Marine Environment from Land-based Activities. It is the only global intergovernmental mechanism directly addressing the connectivity between terrestrial, freshwater, coastal and marine ecosystems.
The GPA is the only global intergovernmental mechanism directly addressing the connectivity between terrestrial, freshwater, coastal and marine ecosystems.
It aims to be a source of conceptual and practical guidance to be drawn upon by national and/or regional authorities for devising and implementing sustained action to prevent, reduce, control and/or eliminate marine degradation from land-based activities.
UNEP hosts the GPA Coordinating Unit and coordinates some activities in support of the programme. Intergovernmental Review Meetings are organized every 5 years to review the progress made by countries in the implementation of the GPA through their respective National Action Plans.
The United Nation Convention to Combat Desertification
It was adopted in Paris on 17 June 1994 and entered into force in December 1996. It is the first and only internationally legally binding framework set up to address the problem of desertification. It now has more than 180 country Parties to the Convention.
The Convention on Wetlands, called the Ramsar Convention, is an intergovernmental treaty.
The Convention’s mission is “the conservation and wise use of all wetlands through local and national actions and international cooperation, as a contribution towards achieving sustainable development throughout the world”.
Ramsar Convention is the oldest of the modern global intergovernmental environmental agreements. It was adopted in the Iranian city of Ramsar in 1971 and came into force in 1975.
United Nations Ocean and Law of the Sea
The UN’s ground-breaking work in adopting the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention stands as a defining moment in the extension of international law to the vast, shared water resources of our planet. The convention has resolved a number of important issues related to ocean usage and sovereignty, such as:
-
Established freedom-of-navigation rights
-
Set territorial sea boundaries 12 miles offshore
-
Set exclusive economic zones up to 200 miles offshore
-
Set rules for extending continental shelf rights up to 350 miles offshore
-
Created the International Seabed Authority
-
Created other conflict-resolution mechanisms (e.g., the UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf).
-
The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development
The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development, also known as the Rio Conference or the Earth Summit, was a major United Nations conference held in Rio de Janeiro from June 3 yo June 14, 1992.
This global conference, held on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the first Human Environment Conference in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1972, brought together political leaders, diplomats, scientists, representatives of the media and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from 179 countries for a massive effort to focus on the impact of human socio-economic activities on the environment. A 'Global Forum' of NGOs was also held in Rio de Janeiro at the same time, bringing together an unprecedented number of NGO representatives, who presented their own vision of the world's future in relation to the environment and socio-economic development.
The United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development ("Rio+ 20")
The United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (UNCSD), also known as the Rio+20 Conference, was held from June 20-22, 2012 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It marked the 20th anniversary of the original 1992 Rio Earth Summit that framed the three pillars of sustainable development (economic, social and environmental) through the Agenda 21 outcome document.
The United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development ("Rio+ 20")
The United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (UNCSD), also known as the Rio+20 Conference, was held from June 20-22, 2012 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It marked the 20th anniversary of the original 1992 Rio Earth Summit that framed the three pillars of sustainable development (economic, social and environmental) through the Agenda 21 outcome document.
The United Nations Development Programme
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN's global development network, advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience and resources to help people build a better life.
We are on the ground in some 170 countries and territories, supporting their own solutions to development challenges and developing national and local capacities that will help them achieve human development and the Sustainable Development Goals. Our work is concentrated on three main focus areas:
UNDP helps countries attract and use aid effectively.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN's global development network, advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience and resources to help people build a better life.
We are on the ground in some 170 countries and territories, supporting their own solutions to development challenges and developing national and local capacities that will help them achieve human development and the Sustainable Development Goals. Our work is concentrated on three main focus areas:
UNDP helps countries attract and use aid effectively.
Goal 15 of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is "Life on Land." It aims to protect, restore, and sustainably manage terrestrial ecosystems, halt biodiversity loss, and combat desertification and land degradation.
The targets of Goal 15 focus on various aspects related to the conservation and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. Here are the specific targets:
-
Target 15.1: Conservation of Ecosystems: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services.
-
Target 15.2: Sustainable Forest Management: By 2020, promote the implementation of sustainable management of all types of forests, halt deforestation, restore degraded forests, and increase afforestation and reforestation.
-
Target 15.3: Combat Desertification: By 2030, combat desertification, restore degraded land, and soil, including land affected by desertification, drought, and floods, and strive to achieve a land degradation-neutral world.
-
Target 15.4: Conservation of Biodiversity: By 2020, ensure the conservation of mountain ecosystems, including their biodiversity, to enhance their capacity to provide benefits that are essential for sustainable development.
-
Target 15.5: Ecosystems and Biodiversity Protection: Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity, and protect and prevent the extinction of threatened species.
-
Target 15.6: Access to Genetic Resources: Promote fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources and promote appropriate access to such resources.
-
Target 15.7: Combat Poaching and Trafficking: Take effective measures to combat poaching and trafficking of protected species, and address both demand and supply of illegal wildlife products.
-
Target 15.8: Global Sharing of Genetic Resources: By 2020, introduce measures to prevent the introduction and significantly reduce the impact of invasive alien species on land and water ecosystems and control or eradicate the priority species.
-
Target 15.9: Integrated Ecosystems Management: By 2020, integrate ecosystem and biodiversity values into national and local planning, development processes, poverty reduction strategies, and accounts.
-
Target 15.A: Mobilizing Resources for Conservation: Mobilize and significantly increase financial resources from all sources to conserve and sustainably use biodiversity and ecosystems.
-
Target 15.B: Access to Genetic Resources and Fair Sharing of Benefits: Promote the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources and promote appropriate access to such resources.
-
Target 15.C: Sustainable Management of Forests: Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity, and protect and prevent the extinction of threatened species.
Overall, the emphasis of Goal 15 targets revolves around the urgent need to protect and restore terrestrial ecosystems, halt biodiversity loss, combat desertification and land degradation, and promote sustainable land management practices. These targets stress the interconnectedness of biodiversity conservation, sustainable resource management, and human well-being, aiming to ensure the long-term health and resilience of terrestrial ecosystems for current and future generations.
WHY IT MATTERS?
Goal 15 of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), "Life on Land," matters for several significant reasons:
-
Biodiversity Preservation: Terrestrial ecosystems host a vast array of biodiversity, from forests to grasslands to mountain regions. Conserving and protecting this biodiversity is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance and supporting various life forms.
-
Ecosystem Services: Terrestrial ecosystems provide essential services such as clean air, clean water, pollination, soil fertility, and climate regulation. These services are fundamental for human well-being and the health of the planet.
-
Climate Regulation: Forests, wetlands, and other ecosystems play a critical role in regulating the climate by sequestering carbon dioxide, helping mitigate the effects of climate change.
-
Food and Agriculture: Healthy and fertile land is essential for agriculture and food production. Sustainable land management practices ensure food security and contribute to livelihoods in rural areas.
-
Human Health: Ecosystems provide natural resources and medicinal plants that contribute to traditional medicine and pharmaceuticals, affecting human health and well-being.
-
Water Resources: Terrestrial ecosystems play a vital role in maintaining water cycles, regulating water flow, and supporting groundwater recharge, influencing water availability for human consumption and agriculture.
-
Economic Development: Sustainable management of terrestrial resources supports economic growth, employment, and livelihoods, particularly in rural areas dependent on natural resources for their income.
-
Conservation of Endangered Species: Protecting terrestrial ecosystems helps safeguard endangered species and habitats, preventing biodiversity loss and contributing to global conservation efforts.
-
Sustainable Development: Goal 15 contributes to overall sustainable development by emphasizing responsible land use, biodiversity conservation, and combatting desertification and land degradation, aligning with other goals related to poverty eradication, climate action, and environmental sustainability.
In summary, Goal 15's focus on terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity is critical for environmental sustainability, human well-being, economic development, and the planet's overall health. Preserving and sustainably managing land resources are essential for current and future generations' prosperity and the health of our planet's ecosystems.
4-Sustainable cities and communities
The fourth criteria to examine the performance of the countries in our region is sustainable cities and communities. Goal 11 of the United Nations' SDGs is "Sustainable Cities and Communities." It aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
Sustainable Cities and Communities (Goal 11) recognizes the significance of urban areas in achieving sustainable
development. By addressing various aspects such as housing, transportation, environmental impact, disaster resilience, and inclusive urban planning, this goal aims to create cities and human settlements that are more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable for present and future generations.
The targets of Goal 11 focus on various aspects related to urbanization, sustainable development of cities, and improving living conditions in urban areas. Here are the specific targets:
-
Target 11.1: Safe and Affordable Housing: By 2030, ensure access for all to adequate, safe, and affordable housing and basic services and upgrade slums.
-
Target 11.2: Sustainable Transport: By 2030, provide access to safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport systems for all, with special attention to the needs of those in vulnerable situations.
-
Target 11.3: Urbanization Planning: By 2030, enhance inclusive and sustainable urbanization and capacity for participatory, integrated, and sustainable human settlement planning and management in all countries.
-
Target 11.4: Cultural and Natural Heritage: Strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world's cultural and natural heritage.
-
Target 11.5: Reducing Environmental Impact: By 2030, significantly reduce the number of deaths and the number of people affected and substantially decrease the direct economic losses relative to global gross domestic product caused by disasters, including water-related disasters, with a focus on protecting the poor and people in vulnerable situations.
-
Target 11.6: Air Quality and Waste Management: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality, municipal and other waste management.
-
Target 11.7: Accessible Public Spaces: Provide universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible green and public spaces, particularly for women and children, older persons, and persons with disabilities.
-
Target 11.A: Support for Least Developed Countries: Support positive economic, social, and environmental links between urban, peri-urban, and rural areas by strengthening national and regional development planning.
-
Target 11.B: Disaster Risk Reduction: By 2020, substantially increase the number of cities and human settlements adopting and implementing integrated policies and plans towards inclusion, resource efficiency, mitigation and adaptation to climate change, resilience to disasters, and develop and implement, in line with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, holistic disaster risk management.
Goal 11 emphasizes the need to create sustainable, resilient, and inclusive cities and communities by addressing various urban challenges, including housing, transportation, environmental impact, disaster resilience, cultural heritage preservation, and access to public spaces. These targets aim to ensure that cities and human settlements are designed to promote well-being, economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability for all residents.
WHY IT MATTERS:
"Sustainable Cities and Communities," matters for several crucial reasons:
-
Urbanization Trend: Cities are growing rapidly worldwide. Goal 11 addresses the challenges posed by this urbanization trend, focusing on making cities more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient.
-
Human Population Concentration: Cities and urban areas are home to a significant portion of the global population. Ensuring sustainability in these areas is vital for the well-being of billions of people.
-
Quality of Life: Creating sustainable cities means improving the quality of life for urban residents. It involves access to adequate housing, reliable transportation, clean air, green spaces, and amenities that foster well-being.
-
Environmental Impact: Urban areas contribute to environmental challenges such as pollution, waste generation, and resource depletion. Sustainable urban planning can mitigate these impacts, leading to a healthier environment.
-
Climate Change Mitigation: Cities are both contributors to and affected by climate change. Sustainable practices in urban areas, such as renewable energy use and efficient transport, are crucial in mitigating climate change effects.
-
Inclusive Development: Goal 11 aims for inclusive development, ensuring that no one is left behind. It focuses on providing equitable access to resources, services, and opportunities for all residents, including marginalized and vulnerable communities.
-
Economic Growth: Sustainable cities attract investments, create job opportunities, and stimulate economic growth. Well-planned urban areas can become hubs for innovation, creativity, and economic development.
-
Resilience to Disasters: Sustainable cities are better equipped to handle natural disasters and crises. Proper urban planning and disaster management strategies can minimize risks and enhance resilience.
-
Preservation of Heritage: Goal 11 recognizes the importance of preserving cultural and natural heritage within cities, fostering a sense of identity and contributing to tourism and cultural appreciation.
Overall, Goal 11 matters because it addresses the urgent need to transform cities into sustainable, inclusive, and resilient spaces. Achieving this goal ensures a better quality of life for billions of urban residents, helps combat climate change, promotes economic growth, and contributes to a more equitable and sustainable world for present and future generations.
_jfif.jpg)
RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION
5- Responsible Consumption and Production
Worldwide consumption and production — a driving force of the global economy — rest on the use of the natural environment and resources in a way that continues to have destructive impacts on the planet. Economic and social progress over the last century has been accompanied by environmental degradation that is endangering the very systems on which our future development — indeed, our very survival — depends. Goal 12 of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is "Responsible Consumption and Production." It focuses on promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns to ensure more efficient use of resources, reduce waste, and minimize the environmental impact of economic activities.
The goal addresses various aspects of consumption and production, aiming to achieve more sustainable practices across industries and societies. Here are the key elements of Goal 12:
-
Sustainable Consumption: Encouraging individuals and businesses to adopt sustainable lifestyles and consumption patterns by reducing waste generation, choosing eco-friendly products, and practicing responsible consumption habits.
-
Sustainable Production: Promoting more sustainable and efficient production processes across industries to minimize resource use, decrease environmental impact, and reduce pollution and waste generation.
-
Waste Reduction and Recycling: Focusing on reducing waste generation, promoting recycling and reuse, and implementing waste management practices that minimize environmental harm.
-
Resource Efficiency: Improving resource efficiency in production processes, including energy, water, and materials, to optimize resource use and minimize waste.
-
Sustainable Supply Chains: Encouraging the adoption of sustainable practices throughout supply chains, from sourcing raw materials to manufacturing and distribution, ensuring ethical and environmentally responsible practices.
-
Consumer Awareness: Raising awareness among consumers about the environmental impact of their choices, promoting informed decision-making, and encouraging responsible consumption behaviors.
-
Corporate Sustainability Reporting: Encouraging businesses and industries to report on their sustainability practices, including environmental impact, social responsibility, and governance (ESG) factors.
-
Capacity Building and Collaboration: Supporting developing countries in building the capacity for sustainable consumption and production and fostering international cooperation and partnerships to advance sustainable practices globally.
Goal 12 emphasizes the need to shift towards more sustainable consumption and production patterns to achieve environmental sustainability, reduce the strain on natural resources, and mitigate the adverse impacts of consumption on the planet. It aims to promote responsible practices at both individual and industrial levels to create a more sustainable future for generations to come.
WHY IT MATTERS:
"Responsible Consumption and Production," of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) matters significantly due to several crucial reasons:
-
Environmental Sustainability: Unsustainable consumption and production patterns contribute significantly to environmental degradation, resource depletion, and climate change. Goal 12 aims to promote practices that minimize environmental impact, reduce waste, and conserve natural resources.
-
Resource Efficiency: With the world facing resource scarcity, responsible consumption and production are vital for maximizing resource efficiency, ensuring that resources are used more sustainably and minimizing waste generation.
-
Waste Reduction: Unsustainable consumption leads to excessive waste generation, which poses threats to ecosystems, pollutes land and water, and harms wildlife. Goal 12 focuses on reducing waste through recycling, reuse, and responsible disposal methods.
-
Climate Change Mitigation: Responsible consumption and production contribute to mitigating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, optimizing energy use, and promoting eco-friendly practices across industries and communities.
-
Health and Well-being: Unsustainable production processes can result in the release of harmful pollutants and chemicals, affecting human health. Responsible practices ensure safer products and healthier living environments.
-
Biodiversity Conservation: Irresponsible consumption practices contribute to habitat destruction and biodiversity loss. Sustainable consumption and production help preserve biodiversity by reducing overexploitation and promoting ethical sourcing.
-
Social and Economic Benefits: Embracing sustainable practices fosters innovation, drives economic growth, creates jobs in green industries, and leads to the development of more environmentally friendly technologies.
-
Global Equity: Responsible consumption and production involve fair and equitable access to resources and opportunities, benefiting both present and future generations, and addressing social disparities.
-
International Cooperation: Achieving Goal 12 requires global cooperation, knowledge sharing, and partnerships among nations, industries, and communities to implement sustainable practices worldwide.
In essence, Goal 12's focus on responsible consumption and production is fundamental for achieving environmental sustainability, improving human health and well-being, fostering economic growth, addressing climate change, and ensuring a more equitable and prosperous future for all. It's crucial for transitioning towards a more sustainable and resilient global society.
6. Climate Action
The sixth criteria to examine the impact of of the countries/governments in our region on the environment is Climate Action. It is the goal 13 of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. It emphasizes the urgent need to take immediate and effective action to combat climate change and its impacts by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing resilience to climate-related hazards, and promoting sustainable practices.
This goal addresses the challenges posed by global warming, rising greenhouse gas emissions, and the resulting environmental changes. Here are the key elements of Goal 13:
The Convention on Wetlands, called the Ramsar Convention, is an intergovernmental treaty.
The Convention’s mission is “the conservation and wise use of all wetlands through local and national actions and international cooperation, as a contribution towards achieving sustainable development throughout the world”.
Ramsar Convention is the oldest of the modern global intergovernmental environmental agreements. It was adopted in the Iranian city of Ramsar in 1971 and came into force in 1975.
United Nations Ocean and Law of the Sea
The UN’s ground-breaking work in adopting the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention stands as a defining moment in the extension of international law to the vast, shared water resources of our planet. The convention has resolved a number of important issues related to ocean usage and sovereignty, such as:
-
Established freedom-of-navigation rights
-
Set territorial sea boundaries 12 miles offshore
-
Set exclusive economic zones up to 200 miles offshore
-
Set rules for extending continental shelf rights up to 350 miles offshore
-
Created the International Seabed Authority
-
Created other conflict-resolution mechanisms (e.g., the UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf).
-
This goal addresses the challenges posed by global warming, rising greenhouse gas emissions, and the resulting environmental changes. Here are the key elements of goal 13 of UN's Sustainable Development Goals:
-
Mitigation of Climate Change: Encouraging countries to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by promoting renewable energy, enhancing energy efficiency, and implementing policies to mitigate climate change.
-
Adaptation to Climate Change: Supporting efforts to adapt to the adverse impacts of climate change, including developing resilience against extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and other climate-related disasters.
-
Climate Education and Awareness: Promoting education, awareness, and capacity-building initiatives to enhance understanding of climate change and its impacts, fostering informed decision-making at individual, community, and government levels.
-
International Cooperation: Encouraging global cooperation and partnerships among nations, organizations, and communities to tackle climate change collectively, including financial and technological support to developing countries.
-
Climate-related Policies and Planning: Encouraging the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures into national policies, strategies, and planning processes across sectors.
-
Finance and Investment in Climate Action: Mobilizing financial resources and investments to support climate-related projects, infrastructure development, and sustainable practices, particularly in vulnerable regions.
-
Promotion of Climate Resilient Societies: Working towards building climate-resilient societies that can withstand the impacts of climate change, ensuring social, economic, and environmental sustainability.
Goal 13 emphasizes the need for immediate and ambitious action at the global level to address climate change effectively. It recognizes the critical importance of mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, adapting to climate impacts, raising awareness, fostering international collaboration, and investing in sustainable solutions to combat the growing threat of climate change to the planet and its inhabitants.
WHY IT MATTERS:
Goal 13, "Climate Action," of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) holds immense significance due to several critical reasons:
-
Global Threat of Climate Change: Climate change poses one of the most significant threats to the planet, impacting ecosystems, economies, and communities worldwide. Goal 13 emphasizes the urgency of taking action to mitigate these impacts.
-
Environmental Impact: Climate change leads to rising temperatures, extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and disruptions to ecosystems, causing biodiversity loss and endangering numerous species.
-
Human Health and Safety: Climate change exacerbates health risks, increases the prevalence of diseases, and threatens human safety through extreme weather events, heatwaves, and changes in disease patterns.
-
Economic Implications: Climate change affects economies, agriculture, industries, and livelihoods. It can lead to reduced agricultural yields, damage to infrastructure, increased costs for disaster management, and disruptions to supply chains.
-
Social Justice and Equity: Vulnerable populations, including the poor, marginalized communities, and regions least responsible for greenhouse gas emissions, often bear the brunt of climate change impacts. Goal 13 aims to address these inequalities.
-
Sustainable Development: Achieving sustainable development requires addressing climate change. Goal 13 emphasizes integrating climate actions into development strategies to build resilience, reduce vulnerabilities, and promote sustainable practices.
-
Global Cooperation: Climate change is a global issue that transcends borders. Goal 13 stresses the need for international collaboration, partnerships, and shared responsibilities to mitigate emissions and adapt to climate impacts.
-
Future Generations: Taking action on climate change today ensures a better future for generations to come by safeguarding natural resources, biodiversity, and the stability of ecosystems.
In essence, Goal 13's focus on climate action is crucial for addressing the existential threat of climate change. It emphasizes the need for immediate and collective action at all levels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance resilience to climate impacts, and safeguard the environment and the well-being of current and future generations.
7. PARTNERSHIP FOR THE GOALS
The PARTNERSHIP FOR THE GOALS is indeed the seventh and final criteria for examining the performance of countries in fulfilling their commitment to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This criterion emphasizes the importance of collaboration and cooperation among various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, private sector, and international organizations, to achieve the SDGs.
Goal 17 of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is "Partnerships for the Goals." This goal underscores the importance of global collaboration and cooperation among various stakeholders—governments, private sector, civil society, academia, and international organizations—to achieve sustainable development.
Key aspects of Goal 17 include:
-
Strengthening Partnerships: Encouraging multi-stakeholder partnerships at local, national, and international levels to mobilize and share knowledge, expertise, technology, and financial resources.
-
Capacity Building: Supporting capacity-building efforts in developing countries to enhance their ability to implement sustainable development initiatives effectively.
-
Technology Transfer: Promoting the development and transfer of environmentally sound technologies to developing countries to help them achieve sustainable development objectives.
-
Finance and Investment: Encouraging public and private financial investment in sustainable development, including foreign aid, foreign direct investment (FDI), and development assistance.
-
Data, Monitoring, and Accountability: Strengthening data collection, monitoring, and accountability mechanisms to track progress towards the SDGs and ensure transparency in partnerships' implementation.
-
Policy Coherence: Encouraging policy coherence and coordination among various stakeholders to align national and international policies with sustainable development objectives.
-
Global Partnership: Emphasizing the need for a global partnership for sustainable development, recognizing that achieving the SDGs requires collective action on a global scale.
Goal 17 recognizes that addressing complex global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation requires collaborative efforts. It stresses the importance of forging partnerships, sharing knowledge and resources, leveraging expertise, and fostering a spirit of cooperation among diverse actors to achieve the SDGs by 2030.
Goal 17, "Partnerships for the Goals," of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) holds immense significance due to several critical reasons:
-
Complexity of Global Challenges: Achieving the SDGs requires addressing multifaceted challenges—poverty, inequality, climate change, and more. Goal 17 recognizes that these issues cannot be tackled by any single entity and emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts.
-
Mobilization of Resources: Partnerships facilitate the mobilization of resources—financial, technological, and intellectual—to support sustainable development initiatives, especially in developing countries where resources may be limited.
-
Shared Knowledge and Expertise: Collaborations allow for the sharing of knowledge, best practices, and expertise among diverse stakeholders, fostering innovation and efficient solutions to complex problems.
-
Capacity Building: Developing partnerships enhances the capacity of institutions, organizations, and countries to implement sustainable development initiatives effectively, promoting long-term sustainability.
-
Technology Transfer: Partnerships facilitate the transfer of technology and innovations, particularly to developing countries, enabling them to leapfrog and adopt sustainable practices more rapidly.
-
Data and Monitoring: Collective efforts enable better data collection, monitoring, and evaluation, ensuring transparency and accountability in the implementation of sustainable development initiatives.
-
Policy Alignment: Collaborative partnerships help align policies and strategies at local, national, and international levels, ensuring coherence and coordination towards achieving the SDGs.
-
Global Solidarity: Goal 17 fosters a sense of global solidarity, emphasizing the interconnectedness of nations and the shared responsibility in achieving sustainable development for the benefit of all.
In essence, Goal 17's focus on partnerships is crucial because it recognizes that addressing complex global challenges requires inclusive and collaborative efforts. It stresses the importance of cooperation, shared responsibility, and collective action among governments, private sector, civil society, academia, and international organizations to effectively achieve the SDGs and create a more sustainable and equitable world for present and future generations.
Partnerships are essential for mobilizing resources, sharing knowledge and expertise, leveraging technology and innovation, and fostering inclusive and sustainable development. Effective partnerships can help address complex challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation more comprehensively and efficiently.
Evaluation of countries' performance in this criterion involves assessing their efforts to build and strengthen partnerships at local, national, regional, and global levels. This includes initiatives to engage diverse stakeholders, promote multi-stakeholder dialogue and collaboration, establish public-private partnerships, mobilize financial resources, and facilitate technology transfer and capacity-building.
Furthermore, countries are evaluated based on their contributions to global partnerships and cooperation mechanisms aimed at achieving the SDGs, such as the UN partnerships platform, regional cooperation initiatives, and international development cooperation frameworks.
Overall, the Partnership for the Goals criterion underscores the interconnected nature of sustainable development and the need for collective action and partnerships to accelerate progress towards achieving the SDGs by 2030.
Technology
17.6 Enhance North-South, South-South and triangular regional and international cooperation on and access to science, technology and innovation and enhance knowledge sharing on mutually agreed terms, including through improved coordination among existing mechanisms, in particular at the United Nations level, and through a global technology facilitation mechanism
17.7 Promote the development, transfer, dissemination and diffusion of environmentally sound technologies to developing countries on favourable terms, including on concessional and preferential terms, as mutually agreed
17.8 Fully operationalize the technology bank and science, technology and innovation capacity-building mechanism for least developed countries by 2017 and enhance the use of enabling technology, in particular information and communications technology
Capacity building
17.9 Enhance international support for implementing effective and targeted capacity-building in developing countries to support national plans to implement all the sustainable development goals, including through North-South, South-South and triangular cooperation
Trade
17.10 Promote a universal, rules-based, open, non-discriminatory and equitable multilateral trading system under the World Trade Organization, including through the conclusion of negotiations under its Doha Development Agenda
17.11 Significantly increase the exports of developing countries, in particular with a view to doubling the least developed countries’ share of global exports by 2020
17.12 Realize timely implementation of duty-free and quota-free market access on a lasting basis for all least developed countries, consistent with World Trade Organization decisions, including by ensuring that preferential rules of origin applicable to imports from least developed countries are transparent and simple, and contribute to facilitating market access
Systemic issues
Water Resource Management
Desserts
10 Pie Recipes to Try This Fall
Thisi is a test preview
Make this yours. Click here to edit the text and include any relevant information.
Mains
A Pasta Hack That Will Transport You to Rome
Helvetica Light is an easy-to-read font, with tall and narrow letters, that works well on almost every site.
Make this yours. Click here to edit the text and include any relevant information.
.jpg)
Drinks
The Health Benefits of Drinking Tea Daily
Helvetica Light is an easy-to-read font, with tall and narrow letters, that works well on almost every site.
Make this yours. Click here to edit the text and include any relevant information.
Healthy
Creative Salad Ideas for the Veggie Lover
Helvetica Light is an easy-to-read font, with tall and narrow letters, that works well on almost every site.
Make this yours. Click here to edit the text and include any relevant information.
.jpg)