A-21: PREAMBLE
Distr.
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".
.
=======================================RRojas Research Unit/1996
