ABSTRACT

The relationship between environmental and developmental goals is well recognized. Agenda 21, itself opens:

Humanity stands at a defining moment in history…integration of environment and development concerns and greater awareness to them will lead to the fulfillment of basic needs, improved living standards for all, better protected and managed ecosystems and a safer and more prosperous future. No nation can achieve this on its own; but together we can—in a global partnership for sustainable development… Agenda 21 …reflects a global consensus and political commitment at the highest level on development and environmental cooperation… This process marks the beginning of a new global partnership for sustainable development. In order to meet the challenge of environment and development, States have decided to establish a new global partnership… Governments recognize that there is new global effort to relate the elements of the international economic system and mankind’s need for a safe and stable natural environment. 1