rio+20 information

8/12/2019 Rio+20 Information

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The United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, known as Rio+20, was held in Rio de Janeiro from 20-22 June

2012. It was the biggest meeting on the international calendar in 2012 and attracted high level participation.

Rio+20 comes 20 years after the landmark 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development, known as the

Rio Earth Summit. More than 100 heads of state attended the Rio Earth Summit, which adopted a wide-ranging blueprint for

action to achieve sustainable development. This included the Convention on Climate Change, the Convention on Biological

Diversity, the Rio Declaration and the Agenda 21 sustainable development plan.

Rio+20 focused on:

The green economy in the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication The institutional framework for sustainable development.

New Zealand priorities at Rio+20

New Zealand sought an action-orientated outcome at Rio+20, taking a leadership role on two key areas within the green

economy:

Blue Economy

New Zealands emphasis on the blue economy includes sustainable fisheries, protection of the marine environment and the

elimination of harmful fisheries subsidies. It reflects the importance of oceans to New Zealand and our neighbouring

countries in the Pacific. A key concern is that harmful fisheries subsidies contribute to overfishing and overcapacity, including

illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.

At the September 2011 Pacific Islands Forum meeting in Auckland, leaders called for blue economy issues to figure

prominently at Rio+20. They urged the international community to tackle threats to marine ecosystems and work towards

integrated oceans management and a global network of marine protected areas. Read more about the blue economy.

Reducing Fossil Fuel Subsidies

In 2010 worldwide fossil fuel subsidies exceeded US$400 billion (International Energy Agency (IEA) World Energy Outlook

2011 report). Subsidies for fossil fuels encourage wasteful consumption, distort markets, impede investment in clean energy

sources and undermine efforts to deal with climate change. The same IEA report also estimated only 8 percent of these

subsidies reached the poorest 20 percent of the population. Some countries spend more on fossil fuel subsidies than they do

on health or education. Reducing fossil fuel subsidies would offer significant climate and environmental benefits as well as

freeing up money that could be directed at social and environmental protection and investments.

New Zealand urged Rio+20 to join other international efforts for a commitment to the early phase out of inefficient fossil

fuel subsidies, while mitigating adverse impacts on vulnerable groups.

New Zealand is a member of the Friends of Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform group, which works to highlight the potential climate,economic, trade and energy security benefits of fossil fuel subsidy reform.


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Preparatory Committee for the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development

Statement by Juliet Hay, Counsellor, New Zealand Permanent Mission to the United Nations, 25-26 January 2012

We join others in thanking the Co-Chairs for the zero draft of the Rio+20 outcome document. In our view, it provides a good

basis for negotiations.

We also associate ourselves with the statement made on behalf of Pacific Islands Forum states which focused mainly on

oceans and fisheries issues. These are a priority for New Zealand. We were pleased to see the references in the zero draft

although, as the Pacific statement mentioned, we seek some further strengthening.

Comments on the structure

Today we comment on other aspects of the zero draft , starting with the structure. We commend the Co-chairs for a

comparatively short document. Our aim now should be to make it even more concise and focused. The final text should be

inspiring and action-oriented one that is not only appropriate for Leaders but also captures the public imagination as that is

critical for implementation. We should make every word count. One strong reference to an issue is better than a multitude

which dilutes the impact.

We consider that there is scope for streamlining as highlighted in our written comments on paragraphs 1-24. Some of those

comments are also applicable to other parts of the document. For example, we accept that there needs to be reaffirmation

of relevant documents such as the various Rio documents. This should be done at the beginning of the document but then

taken as read without needing to mention commitments individually in later parts of the text. More generally, we should

be disciplined when drawing on other texts, avoiding selective quotation.

Also, in what is to be an action-oriented document, we should carefully scrutinise noting paragraphs, ensuring whether

they really are necessary and add value.

The draft currently contains three sections entitled Framework for action. This is potentia lly confusing. For example, much

of Section V(A) seem to be green economy related actions. In our view there should be one such section - a clear list of

agreed actions which can be easily located. This will also contribute to our streamlining efforts.

There are also a number of paragraphs scattered throughout the text that propose goals, targets, indicators, strategies or

toolkits. Some rationalisation is needed. Before working through the proposals individually we suggest a general discussion

at the March meeting to gain a clearer understanding of the objectives underpinning each proposal, including what each

would be used for and how they relate to one another. We should be cautious not to invest too much time and energy in

developing such tools unless we are sure that there is a demand for them, and that they would make a difference.

In a number of areas the zero draft mandates further work while this is probably an appropriate approach in most areas, we

need to ensure that the timeframes specified are realistic but also ambitious. We should not lose momentum.

Comments on specific proposals

We are pleased to see the draft contains a number of issues that New Zealand regards as priorities, including on the phasing

out of fossil fuel, fisheries and agricultural subsidies. We would, however, like a much greater degree of specificity as well as

more ambitious timeframes so intend to propose some amendments.

As we said in December, we are also open to discussing further the inclusion of text relating to the development of

sustainable development goals. The draft lists priority areas including oceans, which New Zealand would support given that

the importance of oceans as a global resource. However, there needs to be further discussion on how to determine which

areas should be the subject of SDGs.

There are some general issues mentioned in the text which may benefit from more prominence, including:

The importance of national ownership and leadership in sustainable development, recognis ing that no one size f its all; and

The importance of enabling environments, including good governance at all levels this is not only relevant to private sector

investment.


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We are all aware of the need for financial resources for implementation and also of the constraints arising from the current

economic situation. We would like to see more emphasis on better use of resources which should therefore come from a

range of sources. (The text refers to the private sector but does not, for instance mention, civil society and foundations, nor

domestic resources such as taxation. Public-private partnerships should also be encouraged.) One aspect in that regard is

building on the progress made on aid effectiveness, most recently at Busan, and we support the reference to the Busan

Partnership.

Institutional framework for sustainable development (IFSD)

Section IV, which deals with IFSD, contains some alternative paragraphs. New Zealand does not yet have final positions on

these issues. We suggest that time be set aside at the March meeting for a general exchange of views on Section IV before

starting on paragraph-by-paragraph consideration. In order to determine the precise shape of the institutional architecture

there needs to be an emerging consensus around what we are trying to achieve. As we mentioned in December, form

should follow function. The driver for change should be improved effectiveness, not just change for changes sake.

One aspect that would benefit from a stronger paragraph is the one UN approach to operational activities at the country

level, reflecting the progress made in reform initiatives, including delivering as one and the harmonisation of business

practices.

We look forward to getting into discussion on the detail in the coming meetings.


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Preparatory Committee for the UN Conference on Sustainable Development

Statement delivered by Juliet Hay, Counsellor, New Zealand Permanent Mission to the United Nations, 16 December 2011

New Zealand is looking forward to Rio+20 as an opportunity to re-energise and realise our common objective of sustainable

development. For us, an ideal outcome would be a renewed political commitment to sustainable development,

underpinned by agreement on focused forward-looking actions. We must not only bank the achievements made since the

first Rio Conference under each pillar of sustainable development, but also update and strengthen them to reflect todays

reality and look towards to a more sustainable future for us all.

We have been asked to consider today the structure and format of the zero draft document. There are a number of possible

precedents, some of which are long and detailed. Time is not in abundance to complete our work. New Zealand values

quality over quantity. We need a document that will inspire us all, one that is tightly focused on future action and concrete

outcomes. In that regard, we should be ambitious yet pragmatic. We should be clear in our vision, yet take into account the

multitude of different circumstances. Our blueprint for the future needs to be challenging yet attainable.

This week we have heard much about creating Sustainable Development Goals, a proposal that has potential to capture the

imagination at Rio. New Zealand is open to constructive dialogue on coverage, content and measurability of possible SDGs.

Like others, we would see this as a separate process from achievement of the Millennium Development Goals, which should

remain a key priority.

New Zealands submission focused on areas where we see potential to make real and substantial differences.

We mentioned yesterday, in the statement given on behalf of Pacific Islands Forum members, some specific concrete

outcomes that we are seeking relating to oceans. Priorities for New Zealand are commitments relating to:

Integrated sustainable oceans management: the Pacific Oceanscape provides a possible model for an integratedapproach to sustainable development of oceans and fisheries as it covers legal and governance issues, science

and capability building aspects, local, national and regional resource management, engagement with

stakeholders and processes for dealing with emerging issues;

Effective fisheries management, including within Exclusive Economic Zones is crucial. Ensuring small islanddeveloping states are able to generate greater returns from the sustainable management of their fisheries

resources is a key to achieving development goals in the Pacific region;

Continuation of the Regular Process for the Global Assessment of the Marine Environment, including socio-economic aspects: sustainable oceans protection and management should be based on sound information and

science. We seek collective commitment to further regular assessments of the marine environment, once the first

assessment is completed in 2014;

Combatting illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing: States should reaffirm their commitment to effectiveimplementation of current mechanisms, mechanisms including port and flag state measures and catch

certification processes. Further assessment of whether additional measures are required could be considered;

Taking concrete steps towards elimination of harmful fisheries subsidies: Subsidies contribute to overfishing andovercapacity: in some cases subsidies are being provided to vessels which have a history of illegal fishing, as well

as for activities affecting fish stocks which are already overfished. Given the worsening state of global fish stocks,

fisheries subsidy reform needs urgent attention;.

Creating a global network of marine protected areas, providing for regeneration and protection of biodiversity, asagreed in Johannesburg.

Phasing out, over the medium term, inefficient fossil fuel subsidies that encourage wasteful consumption andundermine sustainable development, while mitigating adverse impacts on vulnerable groups;

Improving access to clean, reliable, and affordable energy, particularly renewable energy; and Creating a framework supportive of sustainable agriculture and wise management of water resources. To underpin these outcomes, the institut ional framework for sustainable development must become more

effective and efficient. We first need a common understanding about what we want reforms to achieve.Institutional structures should not be an end in themselves but should facilitate the achievement of objectives


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that the international community sets. Form must therefore follow function. Perhaps the zero draft could begin

by identifying the elements where there is common ground in the submissions rather than suggesting a

particular structure at the outset.

For instance, before supporting the creation of new structures New Zealand would want to be sure that they would result in

improved policy coherence and implementation of sustainable development objectives. We would also want to avoid the

shortcomings of the current international environmental governance framework, which are well known. Change whatever

form it takes- should not provide an opportunity to shelter continuing poor coordination, communication and out-dated

processes. And whatever structures we have must represent good value for money. All stakeholders, and particularly the

institutions involved, should prepare themselves to work in new and innovative ways to support sustainable development.

We look forward to working together on these issues over coming months, and to a successful conference in Rio


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SUBMISSION FOR THE RIO+20 PROCESS BY NEW ZEALAND

New Zealand welcomes this opportunity to make a submission on the forthcoming United Nations Conference on

Sustainable Development. We look forward to engaging with other stakeholders through the process of consideration of a

focused, action- oriented outcome document.

New Zealand has not sought to comment on every element of the sustainable development agenda in this submission.

Rather, we have focused on our top priority issues for the purposes of this document.

New Zealand is currently Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum. The annual Pacific Islands Forum Leaders meeting in Auckland in

September 2011 contained a number of themes that are of direct relevance to Rio+20. We have highlighted several in this

submission. The relevant outcomes of the Forum meeting will also be relayed separately to inform the Rio+20 process of the

priorities of the Pacific region.

Expectations for the outcome of Rio+20 and preference for the format of the outcome document:

New Zealand notes that the objective of Rio+20 is to secure renewed political commitment for sustainable development,

assessing the progress to date and remaining gaps in the implementation of the outcomes of the major summits on

sustainable development and addressing new and emerging challenges.

Accordingly, New Zealand envisages Rio+20 producing a short, focussed outcome document containing implementable

political outcomes. We wish to see an emphasis on political commitments and actions to achieve them.

Working within that context New Zealand wishes to highlight a number of priority areas which it regards as strong

candidates for international agreement and action.

Green economy in the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication

New Zealand considers pursuit of a green economy to be a pragmatic approach, not a new paradigm it is as much about

how we grow as it is about how much we grow. New Zealand supports mutually reinforcing environmental, social and

economic policy that makes the most of opportunities to develop new industries, jobs and technologies to clean up

polluting sectors, seek efficiencies in resource use and transform consumption patterns. New Zealand does not consider that

it is desirable or possible to take a one-size-fits-all approach to achieving a green economy. A flexible approach to the greeneconomy will allow countries to implement polices and activities suitable to their own national context. It is vital that the

pursuit of a green economy avoid trade distorting measures and imposing new, green, barriers to trade.

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Oceans and Marine Living Resources: TheBlue Economy:

For us, and for other Pacific Island Forum countries, a crucial element of the greeneconomy is the blue economy.

Capitalising on the potential of our oceans is crucial for the future of the Pacific and the livelihoods of its peoples. In the

Waiheke Declaration on Sustainable Economic Development of September 2011, Pacific Islands Forum leaders recommitted

to pursuing a goal of ensuring a sustainable economic environment for all.

In September 2011, PIF Leaders noted the regions unique dependency on the Pacific Ocean as the basis for their livelihoods,

food security and economic development. New Zealand as Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) reiterates the PIF Leaders

call for the Rio+20 conference to recognize the significant global value and contribution of the Pacific Ocean to sustainable

development, and to acknowledge the stewardship of Pacific Island Countries.

New Zealand also reiterates the PIF call for the international community to work towards integrated oceans management,

for which the Pacific Oceanscape1 could be a model, with the aim of realising relevant international goals to contribute to

the health and vitality of the ocean environment, and the maximisation of returns to Small Island Developing States from the

sustainable use of ocean resources.

Health of the Oceans:

New Zealand strongly supports the completion of the first global integrated assessment of the state of the marine

environment (Regular Process for the Global Marine Assessment) by 2014, which was mandated by the Johannesburg Plan

of Implementation and calls for adequate resourcing for the first assessment. New Zealand emphasises the importance of the

Regular Process for the Global Marine Assessment as a credible, robust process and calls for a commitment to an ongoing


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process of assessments after 2014. New Zealand calls on states to take account of the Regular Process for the Global Marine

Assessment outcomes and act upon them in formulating national, regional and global oceans policy. We note ongoing

concern about ocean acidification and other climate change effects on the oceans especially in the Pacific region.

Sustainable fisheries management including greater return to small island developing states from their fisheries resources:

New Zealand emphasizes that generating greater returns from sustainable fisheries is a high priority for the Pacific. Support

for sustainable development of Pacific fisheries and securing a greater proportion of returns for Pacific Island countries and

territories are key themes of New Zealands Pacific fisheries engagement, in terms of our participation in Regional Fisheries

Management Organizations (RFMOs) and our development assistance.

New Zealand urges renewed commitment to improved oceans governance, including adherence to the key principles of the

United Nations Fish Stocks Agreement, including a reinforcement of the precautionary approach. We recognize the

important link between fisheries and food security. We call on RFMOs dealing with highly migratory species to continue to

coordinate among themselves to develop and adopt best practice in the conservation and management of these species

and their ecosystems. We also call on RFMOs dealing with straddling stocks and on coastal states to cooperate in the

sustainable management of stocks. We underline the need for quality, targeted and better-resourced science and for RFMO

decisions to be made on the basis of that science. New Zealand also urges a focus on improved fisheries management within

Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs). This would involve analysis of and emphasis on fisheries sustainability within EEZs (which

is where more than 90% of global fishing takes place). States must also take action to ensure their management of fisheries

within their EEZs faithfully implements the UNCLOS requirement to conserve and manage fisheries resources, in accordance

with international commitments.

Fisheries subsidies:

New Zealand believes that Rio+20 must address harmful fisheries subsidies that contribute to overfishing and overcapacity,

and impact negatively on sustainable development. Fisheries subsidies can undermine fisheries management decisions,

contribute to illegal, unregulated and unreported (IUU) fishing, create perverse economic incentives which impact on the

long term sustainability of global fisheries, and add pressure on the last remaining, not fully exploited fisheries. Ultimately

the impacts of subsidies will fall most heavily on countries and communities that depend on fisheries resources for

livelihoods, development and employment. In this context, as a complement to ongoing WTO negotiations, countries should

re-commit at Rio+20 to eliminate subsidies which contribute to overcapacity, as well as subsidies for activities that affectalready overfished stocks, and subsidies for vessels and enterprises found to be engaged in IUU fishing. Countries should

also undertake to pursue further unilateral or plurilateral reform of subsidies that contribute to overfishing, commit to

significant improvement in the transparency of current subsidy programmes, and consider greater accountability for non-

notification.

Marine Conservation and Marine Protected Areas:

New Zealand reaffirms the importance of creating, based on sound science, an environmentally sound, representative

network of Marine Protected Areas that advance biodiversity. We recall the international commitment, by 2020, for at least

17% of terrestrial and inland water, and 10% of coastal and marine areas, especially areas of particular importance for

biodiversity and ecosystem services, to be conserved through effectively and equitably managed, ecologically representative

and well connected systems of protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures, and integrated into

the wider landscape and seascapes. We endorse ongoing work to identify and protect Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems.

Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated fishing (IUU):

New Zealand urges the international community to take effective measures against IUU fishing including: increased

monitoring, control and surveillances measures; commitment by the flag state to enforce RFMO and coastal state measures

against their vessels, including full compliance with reporting obligations; implementation of port state measures, including

ratification of the FAO Port State Measures Agreement and development of RFMO IUU vessel blacklists; implementation of

clear and equitable market measures, including the development of appropriate catch certification schemes and

international standards for fisheries product certification; and encouraging states to take action against those responsible for

IUU fishing, including their own companies and nationals. We urge governments, industry and NGOs to work together to

combat IUU fishing. We call for the IMO and FAO to continue their joint work on flags of convenience. We reiterate the

importance for the Pacific region of actions to combat IUU fishing and improve monitoring, control and surveillance, and

recognize progress to this end, including under the Niue Treaty.


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Reform of Inefficient Fossil Fuel Subsidies:

A key impediment to the successful transition towards a green economy is the existence of perverse incentives that continue

to encourage practices harmful to the environment and which inhibit new sources of economic growth.

One of the key commitments in the 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development Johannesburg Plan of Implementation

was to remove [energy] market distortions including the restructuring of taxes and the phasing out of harmful subsidies.

In 2009, under the leadership of G20 and APEC Leaders, this issue received attention again. Since then G20 and APEC,

together representing 54 economies2, have repeatedly recognised that subsidies for fossil fuels encourage wasteful

consumption, distort markets, impede investment in clean energy sources and undermine efforts to deal with climate

change. The Report of the Secretary-Generals High-level Advisory Group on Climate Change Financing found that freeing up

fossil fuel subsidies in developed countries alone could raise up to $8 billion/year that could potentially be redirected to

climate change finance.

G20 and APEC Leaders have committed to rationalise and phase-out over the medium term inefficient fossil fuel subsidies

that encourage wasteful consumption, while recognising the importance of providing those in need with essential energy

services (through targeted case transfers and other appropriate mechanisms, for example).

In addition, the 2011-2020 Convention on Biological Diversity Strategic Plan, agreed in Nagoya in 2010, calls for the removal,

phase out, or reform by 2020 of incentives, including subsidies, that are harmful to biodiversity.

New Zealand acknowledges the leadership shown by G20 and APEC economies. New Zealand believes that Rio+20 should

join these other international efforts to reform inefficient fossil fuel subsidies over the medium term, while mitigating

adverse impacts on vulnerable groups.

New Zealand urges Rio+20 to extend to all UN members the G20 and APEC commitments to phase out over the medium

term, inefficient fossil fuel subsidies that encourage wasteful consumption and undermine sustainable development, while

mitigating adverse impacts on vulnerable groups, to all Rio+20 Parties. Mechanisms to support such a commitment should

include regular reporting of expenditures and actions taken to reduce subsidies; technical assistance underpinned by

research and development; and the sharing of tools needed to achieve reform.

2 19 members of the G20 plus the EU Presidency, which represents an additional 23 European countries, plus 12 member

economies of APEC (in addition to those G20 members of APEC already counted).

An outcome from Rio+20 in this area would complement and build on the commitments made by G20 and APEC leaders. ARio+20 outcome on inefficient fossil fuel subsidy reform would help address a current impediment to green growth.

New Zealand is working with the other members of the Friends of Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform group to highlight the

potential climate, economic, trade and energy security benefits of fossil fuel subsidy reform and support the G20 implement

their commitments.

Energy

New Zealand sees access to clean, reliable, and affordable energy as essential for sustainable economic development,

including in our own region the Pacific. In the Pacific, there is an extraordinarily high dependence on imported fossil fuel for

transport and electricity needs. Projects to reduce this dependency have the potential to improve energy security, provide

greater access to energy services, and decrease vulnerability to price volatility - all of which are positive for sustainable

economic growth. New Zealand is supporting the Pacific region in actively exploring enhanced use of renewable energy

sources for electricity generation, including solar, wind, hydro power, bio-energy, and geothermal energy, including through

fast start finance contributions. Enhanced energy efficiency measures are a fundamental part of this ongoing work.

New Zealand strongly supports the Secretary Generals initiative to achieve the goal of Sustainable Energy for All by 2030

through three interlinked targets3. We see access to clean and affordable energy as a key element of sustainable economic

development.

A comprehensive, planned approach is required to develop the energy sector. In this respect the use of "energy roadmaps"

pulling together country-specific information, including the availability of energy resources, current and future energy use,

distribution and transmission constraints, proposed improvements, policies, targets and regulatory issues, can provide a

robust framework for donors and partners to coordinate their development efforts, including financing. New Zealand would

encourage more widespread use of energy roadmaps as part of the broader consideration of sustainable development at

Rio+20.


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Sustainable Agriculture

For New Zealand and for many other Pacific Islands Forum members, immense potential rests in our productive sectors,

including sustainable agriculture. Capitalising on this potential is crucial for the future of the Pacific and the livelihoods of its

peoples.

New Zealand believes that efforts to reduce agricultural greenhouse gas emissions must not compromise global food

security. New Zealand has been a lead voice in calling for greater international attention to, and investment in, agriculture

greenhouse gas mitigation research and better coordination of efforts. To this end, New Zealand launched the Global

Research Alliance on Agricultural Greenhouse Gases in December 2009 in the margins of the UN climate change conference

in Copenhagen, Denmark. Over 30 countries, spanning all continents, are now members of the Alliance.

The Alliance is focused on research, development and extension of technologies and practices that will help deliver ways to

grow more food (and more climate-resilient food systems) without growing greenhouse gas emissions. The Alliance seeks to

deepen and broaden existing networks of agriculture mitigation research and build new ones; enhance scientific capacities;

increase international investment; improve understanding and measurement of agricultural emissions; and improve access

to and application of agricultural mitigation technologies and best practices. The Alliance invites new members and partner

organisations to support this vitally important work for the benefit of all countries.

Fresh Water Resources

New Zealand considers the issue of wise management of water resources to be critical for sustainable development. In the

Pacific and particularly for those living on small islands the availability of a safe and reliable supply of fresh water for both

potable use and for agriculture is a critical issue. In many cases it is the limiting factor in agriculture development and the

supply is precarious at best and unseasonal periods without rain can cause severe shortages (as is occurring at present in

Tuvalu, Tokelau, and the outer islands of the Cook Islands). Population growth, development pressures and climate change

are making the situation more unstable and less reliable. Options for increasing supply are very limited as many islands have

no surface water sources and very limited ground water sources and are required to depend on rain water collection.

Institutional framework for sustainable development

There are various proposals for structural changes to the United Nations institutional framework, some of which are

potentially far-reaching. Before embarking on change it is necessary to have agreement on the objective - what are we trying

to achieve? NewZealand considers that form should follow function, that is, the institutional structures should not be an endin themselves but should enable achievement of the objectives set by the international community.

The UNs institut ional framework for sustainable development has two main functions: to set international norms relat ing to

sustainable development and to assist countries with implementation. It is timely to review the effectiveness of the current

framework. We recall that the 2005 Millennium Summit outcome document flagged the need to explore system wide

coherence in relation to environmental activities. This is relevant for all the pillars of sustainable development.

In reviewing the institutional framework for sustainable development, it is necessary to consider the following elements:

- effective policy integration of the three pillars of sustainable development at all- levels (ie aspects of each should be considered in the development of policies for the other.)- closer cooperation and coordination between and among institutions;- avoidance of overlap and duplication;- continuation of the principles of partnership at multiple levels arising from the Rio Declaration and Agenda 21;- good value for money for member states and effective delivery of assistance;- adequate resourcing;- monitoring results (in particular, the effectiveness of development assistance).

New Zealand does not want to prejudge the final format of the institutional framework, particularly on the question of

intergovernmental bodies. New Zealands preference has to date been to focus on pragmatic reform of existing institutions,

rather than larger-scale institutional change, ensuring that reforms are practical, achievable and effective at the national

level. We would look, however, to apply the elements listed above to any proposals. Further, it will be important that States

have a full understanding of the financial, legal and comparative advantages of all proposals for structural reform.

New Zealand is a strong supporter of the Delivering as One initiative, considering a unified and coherent UN structure at the

country level is beneficial both for the UN system and the country concerned. In our view, the pilots have worked well as

they have reduced waste and improved delivery on the ground and demonstrably supported national strategies, institutions


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and systems to achieve the particular governments development goals. The initiative should be expanded and applied to

sustainable development generally.

Sustainable development goals

New Zealand is interested in the proposal that Rio+20 consider a process to develop a set of Sustainable Development Goals

(SDGs). New Zealand considers the proposal to have some merits and would support further development of the concept. It

would be important that the focus of the SDGs be tightly defined. We consider it important that any process established

should not detract from the continuing collective international effort to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).


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Environment:

Asia and Pacific Regional Preparatory Meeting for the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development

Seoul, 19 20 October 2011,

Statement by New Zealand: Green Economy

Mr Chair, Honorable Ministers and distinguished delegates,

New Zealand wishes to join others in thanking the Government of Korea for hosting this conference. And we extend our

thanks to ESCAP, UNEP and the ADB for the preparation and organization. This meeting is very timely as we all head to the

deadline for national submissions. It is an opportunity to have an exchange of ideas and to identify commonalities as we

move forward.

First, New Zealand would like to endorse the comments by the Honorable Minister of Natural Resources and Environment of

Samoa, on behalf of Pacific small island states, on the special case of SIDS for both environment and development - as

identified and set out at the 1992 Rio Earth Summit.

Flying to Seoul yesterday, hours on end over the vast Pacific Ocean scattered with small islands, made graphically clear why

the blue world is so important to those of us located in the Pacific region. The Minister and Pacific delegates have explained

very clearly the importance of oceans and fisheries to the island states of the Pacific, so I will not repeat these points here.

Second, delegations may be aware that at the annual meeting of Pacific Islands Forum leaders in Auckland in September

New Zealand took up the rotational Pacific Islands Forum chair. That meeting produced the Waiheke Declaration on

sustainable economic development which affirms that immense potential rests in our productive sectors, particularly

fisheries, tourism and agriculture, and that capitalising on this potential is crucial for the future of the Pacific and the

livelihoods of its peoples.

At the Pacific Islands Forum the United Nations Secretary General and Pacific Forum Leaders stressed the critical importance

of the sustainable development, management and conservation of the regions oceans, coastal and fisheries resources as a

source of livelihoods and income for communities, industries and governments, and of enabling Pacific SIDS to enjoy agreater share of the benefits derived from those resources.

The Pacific Islands Forum communique also called for Rio+20 to recognise the significant global value and contribution of

the Pacific Ocean to sustainable development, acknowledging the stewardship of Pacific Island Countries.

These messages will be conveyed to the Rio+20 secretariat. It will be important that Pacific interests in the blue economy

feature strongly at Rio+20 and we believe that these issues should be fully reflected in the outcomes of this meeting.

Third, New Zealand will be putting oceans and f isheries to the fore in its national submission for Rio+20. We will be looking

for outcomes that support the health and sustainability of the oceans through: global integrated assessment of the state of

the marine environment (Global Marine Assessment); creation of marine conservation and protected areas based on sound

environmental and scientific evaluation; improved oceans governance and management of fisheries taking a precautionary

approach; addressing illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing and fisheries subsidies.

Fourth, New Zealand has made its general views on the green economy clear in various meetings leading to Rio+20. We see

pursuit of a green economy to be a pragmatic approach, not a new paradigm - it is as much about how we grow as it is

about how much we grow. It is not desirable or possible to take a one size fits all approach. Pursuit of a green economy

should avoid trade distorting measures and imposing new, green, barriers to trade.

New Zealand wishes to use this opportunity to discuss two specific elements under the green economy heading fisheries

subsidies and fossil fuel subsidies.

We welcomed the reference in the draft proposal for the Asia Pacific regional statement to refer to damaging subsidies.


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New Zealand sees Rio+20 as an opportunity to address harmful fisheries subsidies, given the stalled WTO negotiations, and

would be pleased to discuss this with other delegations here.

New Zealand believes that Rio+20 must address harmful fisheries subsidies that contribute to overfishing and overcapacity,

and impact negatively on sustainable development. Harmful fisheries subsidies can undermine fisheries management

decisions, contribute to illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing, and create perverse economic incentives which impact

on the long term sustainability of global fisheries, and add pressure on the last remaining, not fully exploited fisheries.

Ultimately the impacts of subsidies will fall most heavily on countries and communities that depend on fisheries resources

for livelihoods, development and employment.

In this context, as a complement to ongoing WTO negotiations, countries should re-commit at Rio+20 to eliminate subsidies

which contribute to overcapacity, as well as subsidies for activities that affect already overfished stocks, and subsidies for

vessels and enterprises found to be engaged in illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing. Countries should also undertake

to pursue further unilateral or plurilateral reform of subsidies that contribute to overfishing,

Finally, in the 2002 Johannesburg Plan of Implementation, we committed to remove [energy] market distortions including

the restructuring of taxes and the phasing out of harmful subsidies. G20 and APEC leaders reaffirmed these political

commitments to rationalise and phase-out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies that encourage wasteful consumption.

Global fossil fuel subsidies cost an estimated US$300 - $500 billion a year. New Zealand is working with others, including

with the Friends of Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform (FFSR) group of non G-20 countries to support reform. Fossil Fuel Subsidy

reform offers positive climate change and environmental outcomes by reducing the potential for wasteful usage of fossil

fuels and associated emissions, as well as being good for public finances, energy security and trade.

This fits well with the 'green economy' focus of Rio+20. New Zealand believes that Rio+20 should join these other

international efforts to reform inefficient fossil fuel subsidies over the medium term, while mitigating adverse impacts on

vulnerable groups. We would welcome the support of others on this topic.

Thank you Mr Chair.


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Statement by H.E. Jane J. Chigiyal, Permanent Representative of the Federated States of Micronesia to the UN on behalf of the

Pacific Islands Forum Members

New York, 25 January 2012

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Pacific Islands Forum members represented at the United Nations. We wish to

thank the Co-Chairs for the work done since December to prepare the zero draft of the Rio outcome document. In our view,

it provides a good basis for negotiations.

For Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) members, it has been particularly important that oceans issues be addressed in the outcome

document. For those who call the Pacific "home", the green economy is in fact a blue economy because, for Pacific

countries, sustainable development cannot be separated from the health of our ocean, including its management and

conservation. The region is uniquely dependent on the Pacific Ocean for livelihoods, food security, and economic

development.

The health of the oceans is also a global issue. Oceans cover 70 percent of our earth. World fisheries support 170 million jobs

and more than 1.5 billion people rely on marine resources for their protein intake. Even those who live far from the sea are

affected by the state of the oceans, because they play a critical role in the global climate system and in connecting world

trade. Building a blue economy ultimately benefits all countries and makes a crucial contribution to global sustainable

development.

We are therefore pleased to see that oceans feature in a number of paragraphs in the zero draft including:

- actions that target threats to the ocean environment, including from acidification,- pollution, and illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing;- the commitment to restore global fish stocks to sustainable levels by 2015;-

the conservation and sustainable management of marine eco-systems and resources; and as a possibleSustainable Development Goal.

-We would, in addition, like to see specific language on the importance of delivering on existing oceans-related commitments

and international goals, such as establishment of the global network of marine protected areas, as agreed at Rio+10; and the

need for arrangements to ensure that small island developing states (SIDS) receive greater benefits from their ocean

resources as this is critical to their sustainable development.

We are also pleased to see other issues of importance to our region included in the zero draft including the paragraphs on

food security, water resources, and energy. Many PIF countries have a high level of reliance on imported energy and would

therefore like to see greater emphasis on improved access to clean, reliable and affordable renewable energy.

It would be useful to broaden the paragraph on infrastructure. As well as improving national infrastructure, it is also

important for PIF countries to enhance regional infrastructure to ensure access to markets. We would also like to see

strengthened text on the importance of an enabling environment that supports increased investment, productive activity

and a strengthened private sector, all of which can generate income and employment.

We also strongly support the proposal for a global SIDS conference to be held in the Pacific in 2014. With Rio now on the

horizon, we are reaching the business end of the work of the Preparatory Committee. We look forward to working together

constructively over coming months so we can present our Leaders with an inspiring and action-orientated outcome

document.


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Ministry Statements and Speeches 2011:


Statement delivered by Jim McLay, New Zealand Ambassador and Permanent Representative, on behalf of Pacific Islands Forum

Members, 15 December 2011

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Pacific Island Forum members represented at the United Nations.

Our region is uniquely dependent on its ocean; for Pacific Island countries, their ocean is their lifeblood. Our ocean

underpins livelihoods, food security, and economic development. And it was ever thus: Pacific peoples were navigating

their ocean the world's largest at a time when others were still confined to their coastal waters.

For all those reasons, we say that oceans issues must be a priority at Rio. For those who call the Pacific "home", the green

economy is in fact a blue economy. For Pacific countries, sustainable development cannot be separated from the health of

our oceans sustainable development does not stand apart from oceans management and ocean conservation.

Of course, oceans and their benefits stretch far beyond the Pacific. Oceans cover 70 percent of our earth. World fisheries

support 170 million jobs and more than 1.5 billion people rely on marine resources for their protein intake. Even those who

live far from the sea are affected by the state of the oceans, because they play a critical role in the global climate system and

in connecting world trade. And oceans also provide valuable amenity and recreation for people of every country. For many

people, no matter where they live, a beach or a coral reef is the classic symbol of paradise. All of us benefit from

maintaining our oceans - and building a blue economy ultimately benefits all countries. And yet the state of this important

life sustaining resource is threatened by pollution, overfishing, and climate change. No conference on sustainable

development will be successful if it does not address those challenges.

And so it was that, at the 42nd Pacific Islands Forum held in Auckland, New Zealand, in September 2011, Leaders reiterated

the critical importance of ensuring the sustainable development, management, and conservation of our ocean, noting the

regions unique dependency on the Pacific as the basis for their livelihoods, food security, and economic development. We

have repeated those calls in our submission. They are really important to those of us who live in and are sustained by the

Pacific; but they are also relevant to those who live well beyond the Pacific, particularly for small island developing stateswhich face the same issues the same unique and particular vulnerabilities.

We highlight a number of particular areas in the context of this meeting. It will be vital for members of the Pacific Islands

Forum that the significance of protecting the health of our oceans for sustainable development is recognised and

operationalised through Rio+20. The health of the oceans is a global development issue.

We urge the international community to work towards integrated oceans management, using the Pacific Oceanscape as a

model; and we look for specific outcomes addressing:

- realisation of relevant international goals such as establishment of the global network of marine protected areas,as agreed at Rio+10;

- actions that target threats to the ocean environment, including from acidification, pollution, and illegal,unreported and unregulated fishing;

- the conservation and sustainable management of marine eco-systems and resources; and- arrangements that ensure that small island developing states enjoy a greater share of the benefits derived from

the conservation and sustainable management of ocean resources.

These points were also recognised in the joint statement by Forum Leaders and the United Nations Secretary General on 7

September 2011, which called for Blue Economy issues to figure prominently at Rio+20.

The range of issues that will confront us as we work our way towards Rio are daunting, but we are encouraged by the

growing recognition of the crucial importance of the sustainable development and protection of our oceans. If the

advancement of the original Rio goals has been uneven, it has been particularly so in relation to those oceans. We urge the

international community to deliver on past commitments and to seize the opportunity to provide a path forward on oceans,

recognising their crucial contribution, not just to island states, but also to global sustainable development.


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Forum members also wish see the Rio+20 outcome document address other areas that were highlighted in this years Forum

Communiqu as key to unleashing the productive potential needed for sustainable development. These include:

- fostering an environment that supports increased investment, productive activity and a strengthened privatesector, all of which can generate income and employment, particularly in fisheries, agriculture and tourism;

- conserving and managing the fragile island ecosystems that underpin sustainable development and food andwater security;

- improving energy security, through greater efficiency measures and the promotion of clean and affordableenergy, including renewable energy; and

- investing in improved infrastructure.Forum members place great importance on a successful outcome at Rio, so we will engage constructively in the discussions

over the coming months. Our objective will be to deliver on the priorities identified by Forum Leaders just over two months

ago; and we undertake to work with other Member States to achieve those outcomes


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14/10/2011 PAC/PIF/2011

UN CSD Office

Division for Sustainable Development

UN-DESA

UNITED NATIONS CONFERENCE ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT 2012:

SUBMISSION ON BEHALF OF THE PACIFIC ISLANDS FORUM

The forthcoming United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development 2012 (Rio+20) provides an opportunity to secure

renewed political commitment to sustainable economic development. As Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, it is my honour

to convey to you the themes that the Leaders of the Pacific Islands Forum have highlighted as being of crucial importance,

including in the context of the Rio+20 process.

Leaders of the Pacific Islands Forum met in September 2011 under the theme of converting potential into prosperity. The

Leaders agreed the Waiheke Declaration on Sustainable Economic Development. The Waiheke Declaration is attached to this

letter.

The Pacific Islands Forum would ask Rio+20 to note the Waiheke Declarat ion, and in particular, the pledges and

commitments within it. The declaration is based on the premise that strengthened sustainable economic development is key

to a better quality of life for all our peoples, and contains pledges and commitments related to the Rio+20 themes of the

green economy and the institutional framework for sustainable development.

The Pacific Islands Forum Leaders meeting Communiqu makes specific reference to the importance of oceans and fisheries

as a key issue for the Rio+20 Conference. Leaders reiterated the critical importance of ensuring the sustainable development,

management and conservation of our ocean, noting the regions unique dependency on the Pacific Ocean as the basis for

their livelihoods, food security and economic development. Leaders called for the 2012 United Nations Conference onSustainable Development (Rio+20) to recognise the significant global value and contribution of the Pacific Ocean to

sustainable development, acknowledging the stewardship of Pacific Island Countries.

Leaders further urged the international community to work towards integrated oceans management, using the Pacific

Oceanscape as a model, with the aim of ealising relevant international goals to contribute to the health and vitality of the

ocean environment, including through the global network of marine protected areas agreed at Rio+10. Leaders also

highlighted the threats to the ocean environment, including from ocean acidification, pollution, and illegal, unreported and

unregulated fishing. To ensure that Rio+20 includes strong outcomes on the conservation and sustainable management of

marine ecosystems and resources that reflect the needs of the Pacific region, Leaders also called for the maximisation of

returns to Members from the conservation and sustainable management of ocean resources.

Finally, Pacific Forum Leaders and the United Nations Secretary General made a joint statement on 7 September 2011 which,

inter alia, Stressed the critical importance of the sustainable development, management and conservation of the regions

oceans, coastal and fisheries resources as a source of livelihoods and income for communities, industries and governments,

and of enabling Pacific SIDS to enjoy a greater share of the benefits derived from those resources. They called for such

issues, often referred to as the Blue Economy, to figure prominently at next years UN Conference on Sustainable

Development (Rio+20). They urged the international community to tackle threats to marine ecosystems and work towards

integrated oceans management and a global network of marine protected areas.

It is the strong wish of Pacific Islands Forum Leaders that the Rio+20 process recognises and highlights the importance for

our region of sustainable economic development as set out in the Waiheke Declaration, with particular focus on our

productive sectors of fisheries, tourism and agriculture, and the importance of sectors such as transport, infrastructure,

education and energy in providing the environment to achieve that potential. It is also the desire of Pacific Islands Forum

Leaders that Rio+20 includes strong outcomes on oceans and fisheries, as set out in the Pacific Islands Forum Communiqu

2011 and in the Joint Statement of Pacific Island Forum leaders and the Secretary-General of the United Nations.


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Yours sincerely,

Rt Hon John Key, PRIME MINISTER

THE WAIHEKE DECLARATION ON SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

We, the Leaders of the Pacific Islands Forum, meeting in Auckland, New Zealand:

Acknowledgingwith gratitude the foresight of Pacific Leaders who forty years ago first met in Wellington, New Zealand, to

establish what is today the Pacific Islands Forum involving sixteen independent member states of the Pacific region;

Recognisingthe vision of Leaders at that first meeting who strongly encouraged the development of regional cooperation

as a valuable mechanism to assist in resolving issues of common concern affecting the daily lives of the peoples of the

Pacific;

Celebratingthe achievements accomplished through close and effective regional cooperation;

Realisingthe economic and social challenges we all face, including those arising from climate change, the increasing costs

and insecurities of supply of daily necessities such as energy and food, and the impacts of urbanisation and natural disasters;

Expressingwith appreciation the significant assistance received over the past four decades from the regions development

partners;

Taking into accountthe strategic direction provided by the Pacific Plan for progressing the pillars of sustainable

development and economic growth in the Pacific;

Acknowledgingthe importance of good governance and security, the other two pillars of the Pacific Plan, in helping to

deliver sustainable economic development outcomes;

Reaffirmingthe importance of accelerating progress towards the Millennium Development Goals,

Highlightingthe benefits of advancing development coordination involving Pacific Countries and development partners, as

articulated in the Cairns Compact on Strengthening Development Cooperation in the Pacific (Forum Compact);

Sharingour aspiration to create a prosperous, stable and secure Pacific for future generations;

Hereby declarethat strengthened sustainable economic development is key to a better quality of life for all our peoples;

Recommit ourselves to pursuing a goal of ensuring a sustainable economic environment for all, so that all our peoples, in

particular the young who are the future of our societies, have opportunities for gainful employment and can live healthy,

productive and safe lives;

Recognisethat sustainable economic development increases the resilience of communities, including their most vulnerable

members.

Set out to transformthe regions future by drawing on the Pacifics unique assets by collectively focusing our efforts on

areas where we have an impact on our peoples long-term wellbeing;

Recognise that despite challenges related to our small size and our relative isolation, we live in an ocean of opportunity,

that immense potential rests in our productive sectors, particularly fisheries, tourism and agriculture, and that capitalising on

this potential is crucial for the future of the Pacific and the livelihoods of its peoples;

Acknowledgethe importance of sectors such as transport, infrastructure, education and energy in providing an

environment in which the Pacifics potential can be realised;

Affirmthe high importance of the private sector in helping realise the regions potential;


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Acknowledgeour responsibility to create an environment where business can thrive and contribute to the regions

development;

Recognisethe way in which regional and economic integration can improve the prospect of stable, long-term economic

growth in Pacific communities by creating jobs, enhancing private sector growth, and raising standards of living, through the

freer flow of goods, services and investment within the Pacific;

Pledge to:

- Pursue improved sustainable returns to Pacific island economies from the abundant natural resources, particularlyfisheries, available from the wealth of our shared Pacific Sea of Islands;

- Foster an environment that supports increased investment, productive activity and a strengthened private sector,particularly in relation to fisheries, agriculture and tourism, to generate income and employment;

- Empower the next generation by significantly improving childrens access to quality basic education, so as to raiseliteracy and numeracy rates;

- Improve the health status of our peoples so that they can enjoy more productive and less troubled lives and torelieve the burden on Pacific economies; Conserve and manage fragile island ecosystems which underpin

sustainable development and food and water security within our region;

Commit ourselves specifically to:

- Improve energy security through greater efficiency measures and the promotion of clean and affordable energy,including renewable energy;

- Address the persistent problem of illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing in the Pacific through enhancingthe effectiveness of regional monitoring, control and surveillance activities;

- Promote the Pacific as an exciting and diverse tourism destination, and support the sectors ability to generateincome and employment for its peoples;

- Raise educational standards and expand opportunities for acquiring technical and vocational skills relevant to jobmarkets, especially for women, including through non-formal education and training provision;

- Increase opportunities for women to participate in the formal labour market and as entrepreneurs;-

Ensure the meaningful engagement of civil society and Pacific island communities in the development process;- Develop institutions that contribute to creating an enabling environment for private sector-led growth including

by introducing appropriate regulatory and legal reforms;

- Reduce barriers to regional trade and investment in order to expand access to markets for Pacific businesses andfocus on building the capacity of economies to benefit from the trade and investment opportunities that arise;

- Continue strengthening public financial management and development coordination as a means to improvedevelopment effectiveness and to adequately prepare and ensure efficient management of the influx of resources

to address climate change;

- Invest in improved infrastructure;- Support the development of niche, high value agricultural production and its links into global value chains, such

as Fair Trade and organics;

Agreeto strengthen the monitoring of progress against regional priorities;

Undertaketo examine further ways in which we might enhance regional cooperation and integration, including through

enhancing the effectiveness of shared institutions, in order to promote efficient delivery of regional public goods, and

improved services, to our businesses and peoples;

UrgePacific Regional Organisations to actively consider how their work programmes can contribute to economic growth

and enhancement of the capacity of the productive sectors where applicable;

Callon our international partners to support, in a coordinated way, our endeavours by focusing their assistance on areas

that directly and indirectly improve our ability to develop sustainable productive economies.


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Nick Smith

8 MARCH, 2012

Rio+20: The Future We Want

Good morning. Thank you to the organisers of todays seminar for providing this opportunity for everyone involved in

contributing to the Zero Draft Document for Rio+20 to get together and share ideas and information on these matters which

are so critical to our future.

I would like to acknowledge the distinguished speakers and guests, and especially acknowledge and thank all of you who

have put many hours and much thought into your submissions.

Of course, we are all here because in June this year, leaders of states, civil society and business will meet in Rio de Janeiro to

map out the next steps for sustainable development. The Rio+20 conference will be one of the largest international events

this year.

In the twenty years since the Rio Earth Summit, ground-breaking concepts contained in the Rio principles and Agenda 21

have been mainstreamed into our daily lives.

Significant environmental agreements in climate change, biodiversity, and desertification grew out of that Summit, and work

under these conventions continues to develop.

This years Rio+20 conference on sustainable development will focus on two themes: the green economy in the context of

poverty eradication, and the institutional framework for sustainable development.

It will consolidate progress made so far, but it also seeks to address current shortcomings and new challenges.

In times of global economic uncertainty, it is tempting to downgrade or consider sustainable development as an option.

This would be a mistake. There is vast potential in sustainable development, something this government recognises, not only

for New Zealand but also in the Pacific and globally.

The green economy and green growth are areas that New Zealand is focuss ing on to drive important economic,

environmental and social growth. It is as much about how we grow as it is about how much we grow. There are complex

issues and balancing of interests. It is clear that there is no one definition and no one-size fits all policy, for us or our

neighbours.

New Zealand already has many innovative businesses that leverage off our strong clean green reputation. There is the

potential for more innovation leading to more jobs and wealth creation in New Zealand.

Recognising the importance the need for New Zealand to further take up Green Growth opportunities; the Government

established the Green Growth Advisory Group to provide advice on ways to green New Zealands growth. The Report was

released last weekend and the Government is currently considering the recommendations of the group.

In 2011 the Green Economy index was published analysing the performance and perception of 27 countries. New Zealand

was ranked first for overall performance. The report states that New Zealands best green performance in 2011 suggests that

prioritising green in the political and economic spheres can transform smaller nations into global sector leaders.

We favour a broad approach to green growth that has all industries moving to more environmentally sustainable

technologies.

NZs focus us to bring together policies that support a strong, growing economy with sound stewardship of our national

environment.


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The Ministry for the Environment is recognising work in Green Economy with 2012 the first year that the Green Ribbon

Awards include a Green Economy Category. Nominations for these awards are now open. So if you know any individual or

organisation in New Zealand thats making a difference to our environment, please nominate them before 23 March.

Within the Rio+20 process, as the submissions from governments and stakeholders show (all available online), there are a

wide range of views on what sustainable development entails.

We are aware that New Zealand stakeholders, either directly or through their international linkages, have made submissions

as well as engaged with officials. We welcome this and encourage you to continue to provide feedback

When faced with the multitude of issues presented - from sustainable agriculture, to education, food security, disaster

preparation, to mountains and oceans, reasonable people will come to different views on what needs to be done and how.

For New Zealand, our focus is on the areas that are most urgent, where we can add value, and where there are good

prospects to make progress.

The oceans, or the green economy in a blue world is one area where we believe significant advances can be made at

Rio+20. Although the health of the oceans and sustainable use of fisheries and other marine resources was addressed at the

World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg in 2002, implementation has been largely lacking.

New Zealand is a nation surrounded by water and I am pleased to say that we are taking steps to improve the management

of the environmental effects of activities far out at sea in our exclusive economic zone, through legislation now before

Parliament.

Oceans cover 70 percent of our earth, feed and provide employment for millions, many from least developed countries, and

yet the state of this important life sustaining resource is threatened by pollution, overfishing and the effects of climate

change. And yet there is a lack of coordinated, science-based collective management of our oceans.

Illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing continues unchecked in many parts of the world, sometimes even supported by

Government subsidies. The FAO reports that 85 percent of the worlds fisheries are fully exploited, overexploited, depleted,or recovering from depletion - the highest percentage since FAO began keeping records, and a 10 percent increase from

four years ago. Things are heading in the wrong direction.

Halting or slowing overfishing will be one goal, but restoring the oceans will be another. We support the call for a global

network of representative Marine Protected Areas that can provide a natural refuge and be a regenerative resource for the

oceans.

For the Pacific, oceans issues are the top priority for Rio+20. Sustainable development in the Pacific cannot be separated

from oceans and fisheries issues. Small Island Developing States in our region must receive a greater share of the benefits

derived from those resources. Over 55 percent of our development assistance is focussed on the Pacific, and our efforts

support long term sustainable development, including in oceans and fisheries.

As Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, we have also highlighted the importance of progress in these areas in our statements

and submissions on behalf of Pacific Island countries.

Tackling fossil fuel subsidies reform is another priority area for New Zealand. Fossil fuel subsidies harm the environment and

encourage wasteful consumption. The needs of the vulnerable can be better met by targeted assistance rather than broad

subsidies that often have perverse effects on the environment.

New Zealand, along with like-minded countries such as Ethiopia and Switzerland have been supporting international efforts

for reforms as part of the Friends of Fossil Fuel Subsidies Reform, and we hope to build on the work underway in APEC and

the G20.

New Zealand will push for specific outcomes in these areas, and we invite interested stakeholders to work with us on these

issues, to provide your ideas on the best way forward.


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Although oceans and fossil fuel subsidies reform are key priorities, sustainable energy, agriculture and fresh water are also

important areas we support. They are important not only to New Zealand, but are also key to development, whether in the

Pacific or elsewhere.

Sustainable Development Goals have been proposed as one possible form for specific commitments. These are likely to

apply to both developing and developed countries, and we think they could be useful targets, as complements to the

Millennium Development Goals.

Sustainable energy and oceans are two front runners for possible goals.

The reform of the institutional framework for sustainable development is also on the table for Rio+20.

It is recognised that the current system has fragmented, uncoordinated and duplicative frameworks in place. Greater impact

and effectiveness, not simply more money and more projects and programmes is needed. New Zealand is a strong supporter

of the UNs delivering as one initiative, which provides countries with one coordinated UN contact point, rather than the

multitude of offices as in the past.

Proposals that will be tested include strengthening existing mechanisms, such as the Economic and Social Council, the

Commission on Sustainable Development and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Other proposals centre

on creation of new institutions, such as a Sustainable Development Council, a World Environment Organisation or a new

specialised agency from the core of UNEP.

What kind of framework does New Zealand seek? Though it is often stated, it makes it no less true - form should follow

function. The form should ensure effective integration of the three pillars at all levels, eliminate duplication and overlap,

produce measurable and monitorable outcomes, while being cost efficient.

The pros and cons of each option need to be fully explored to see whether they will meet our needs for a coherent,

coordinated, responsive and efficient institutional framework. The creation of yet another mechanism or entity without

regard to the actual issues to be solved and the realities of the current environmental, economic and financial pressure isunlikely to progress sustainable development.

Consider for example, the proposal to transform UNEP into a specialised agency to raise the status of the environment pillar.

What problem are we addressing? Is there a risk that environment work could become further siloed? What is it that UNEP

cannot do now that a new framework might allow? Is there a risk that a new institution could be weaker rather than

stronger than what exists now? What might it cost? What are the implications for UNDP, which is the UN lead agency

responsible for the development system? Will this answer the concerns of duplication in physical and intellectual resources

with existing institutions, such as the United Nations Development Programme? What are the advantages of this proposal, as

compared to strengthening any other institution or even the creation of a new World Environment Organisation?

These are the questions that we must ask ourselves and others. We are listening carefully to stakeholders, and again invite

your considered views and insights.

New Zealand intends to play a constructive role at Rio+20, as it did at the original Rio Earth Summit and the Johannesburg

World Summit on Sustainable Development.

We will not be the biggest and may not be the loudest voice at the conference, but we intend to be one of the most

practical and relevant.

The Rio+20 conference will consolidate and build upon the progress made s ince the original Summit. Perhaps it will not

make the same headlines as the original ground-breaking Rio Earth Summit. If concrete measures and outcomes in key areas

of oceans and subsidies reform are achieved, then we have played our part.


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Nick Smith

8 MARCH, 2012

Oceans and Greening Growth NZ Rio+20 Priority

New Zealands priority at the United Nations Rio+20 Summit in June will be on improving environmental management of

oceans and opportunities from greening growth, Environment Minister Nick Smith said when opening the United Nations

Association New Zealand Conference in Wellington today.

We are putting strong emphasis on oceans in New Zealands contribution to Rio+20 because it is so important for our part

of the world and more needs to be done globally to protect the marine environment. Our concern is that illegal, unreported

and unregulated fishing continues unchecked and often supported by Government subsidy.

New Zealand will also be promoting its ideas around greening growth at the Rio+20 Summit. We have a real contribution to

make noting our ranking as best performer in the 2011 Global Green Growth Index. The global community, in these difficult

times, needs to focus on policies that enable improved living standards and incomes while ensuring better stewardship of

natural resources.

We will be particularly active in advocating for reform of fossil fuel subsidies. The debate on carbon pricing to reduce

emissions is undermined by global subsidies of $500 billion per year of fossil fuels. There is real opportunity for significant

emissions reductions and saving for governments from removing these distorting subsidies.

Real gains were made at the original Rio Earth Summit with conventions on climate change, biodiversity and desertification.

Our ambition for Rio+20 is for progress to be made on improving management of our oceans and on greening global

economic growth, Dr Smith says.


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Tim Groser

17 DECEMBER, 2011

New Zealand leads call for action on fisheries subsidies

Trade Minister Tim Groser has led a call at the WTOs 8th Ministerial Conference in Geneva for urgent action to protect global

fish stocks. New Zealand is coordinating a group of countries that includes Argentina, Australia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador,

Norway, Peru and the United States.

The purpose of the meeting, which included a wider range of Government representatives, international media and

international environmental NGOs, was to issue a joint statement drawing political attention to the destruction of wild

fisheries and to reiterate the group's commitment to ambitious and effective disciplines on fisheries subsidies.

In presenting the statement today on behalf of the group, Mr Groser emphasized that an estimated 85% of the worlds fish

stocks were fully exploited, over exploited, depleted or in recovery.

The depletion of the worlds fish stocks is the clearest example today of what is called the tragedy of the global commons.

Obviously, no country individually seeks the destruction of the wild fisheries of the world, but this is exactly the danger

facing certain critical fish stocks in parts of the world unless there is more effective international cooperation to deal with the

problem.

We need action on a variety of fronts, but reduction of harmful subsidies which contribute to over-fishing is a central part of

any solution, Mr Groser said.

It is first and foremost an environmental tragedy but it is also a development issue of particular importance to developing

countries in the Pacific the source of about half the global wild catch. Fish is part of these countries food security. Beyond

that, it is also one of their great economic assets, offering Pacific countries significant economic development opportunities.

The scale of subsidization was huge - around US $20 billion per annum, or US $200 billion since the Doha round began.

The countries which have signed this statement represent a diverse group of developing and developed countries. We havecome together to call for urgent corrective action at all levels - national, regional and international to address harmful

subsidization of the fisheries sector. Subsidies that contribute to environmental depletion demand priority attention if we are

to have a sustainable future.


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Amy Adams

21 JUNE, 2012

NZs key goals included in Rio+20 outcome document

Environment Minister Amy Adams says the key goals on oceans pushed by New Zealand at the Rio+20 conference in Brazil

have been included for discussion in the summits outcome document.

This is a great step and shows that the international community recognises the need for urgent collective action to address

the state of our oceans, Ms Adams says.

This is an area that we believe can deliver real and substantial economic, social and environmental global benefits.

The text in the outcome document commits to further improvement of regional fisheries management, and actions to crack

down on illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing.

The text clearly registers the importance of small island developing states and getting a greater share of the return from

their fisheries resources. This has been a long-standing New Zealand and Pacific goal.

The outcome document a lso endorses the United Nations process to assess the health of the oceans, and locks in the global

goal of having 10 per cent of the worlds oceans in marine-protected areas.

New Zealand is particularly concerned about harmful fisheries subsidies, Ms Adams says.

These only add to the worsening state of global fish stocks, distort trade and undermine sustainable development.

Some governments subsidise new fishing boats when the world already has too many, some subsidise fishing industries

that are targeting already over-fished stocks, and others even give subsidies to fishing entities linked to illegal fishing.

Tackling government subsidies for fossil fuels is another area of New Zealands focus that has seen some progress at Rio.

Ms Adams says that while New Zealand supported stronger commitments in this area, the Rio+20 text nevertheless

represents further international recognition of the importance of fossil fuel subsidy reform by all UN members.

Fossil fuel subsidy reform is becoming an important internationally, as weve seen from a number of civil society campaigns

in the lead up to the conference.

Phasing out fossil fuel subsidies over the medium term would deliver significant benefits for a greener economy and the

climate.

We are mindful that reform will have consequences for poorer populations, and needs to be done progressively, but money

spent on fossil fuels is huge.

This is money that could be spent on other sustainable development priorities. Some countries spend more on fossil fuel

subsidies than they do on health or education.


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Amy Adams

21 JUNE, 2012

NZ supports indigenous network launched at Rio+20

New Zealand is supporting an Australian initiative that will see indigenous people better connecting with each other to

improve the management of natural resources, Environment Minister Amy Adams announced today.

The International Indigenous Land and Sea Managers Network was launched by Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard at the

Rio+20 sustainable development conference in Brazil today.

New Zealand believes it can contribute to the success of this new network by drawing on our wealth of experience in land

and sea management by Mori, and the joint activities undertaken by Mori and the Government, Ms Adams says.

The network will provide a way for indigenous peoples to come together to share experiences and learn from each other on

managing natural resources. There is no similar mechanism globally.

Mori are significant owners of land and marine resources. As well as their experience in the economic development of

these, Mori have an important guardianship role.

As Mori and the Government reach settlements under the Treaty of Waitngi, iwi are becoming formally engaged in the

management of public protected lands, coastlines and oceans.

We have a growing pool of capable and experienced iwi/ Mori resource and environmental practitioners working

alongside regulators, developers and operators in sustainable resource development and management.

For example, New Zealands national environmental regulatory authority has a statutory Mori advisory group to advise its

Board and statutory decision-makers on matters of policy, process and decision-making from a Mori perspective.

New Zealand is keen to participate in the work of this new international network. We hope we can contribute to

maintaining healthy biological diversity and resilient ecosystems. These underpin robust economies, human health, povertyalleviation, and sustainable livelihoods.

Traditional knowledge, local practices and cultural connections are important in sustainable use of the worlds biodiversity.

New Zealand has been active in conducting exchanges with Australia over the management of protected landscapes,

particularly National Parks.

This programme being launched by Australia continues this useful work and will provide new opportunities for sharing

knowledge and ideas more widely.


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Rio + 20 Statements, Speeches and Media releases

Statement by Aliki Faipule Kerisiano Kalolo Ulu o Tokelau (titular head of tokelau) on the occasion of the Rio+20 side event

organised by the government of Australia on indigenous peoples and local communities land and sea management

Wednesday 20 June 2012

Hon Julia Gillard MP, Prime Minister of Australia

Hon Tony Burke MP, Australian Minister for Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities

Excellencies, distinguished presenters for this side event, ladies and gentlemen, thank you Master of Ceremony

It is indeed a great honor to be amongst you this afternoon. As the Ulu o Tokelau and also the Minister responsible for the

environment and natural resources the opportunity to attend this seminar for the first time was too good to miss. I am

excited with the initiative for indigenous leaders to present, talk and discuss how knowledge sharing and exchange in our

communities improve land and sea conservation management and create broader social and economic benefits.

As some of you may be aware, Tokelau consists of 3 low lying atolls very isolated from the rest of the world. The only way

you can travel to Tokelau is by ship, from Samoa and the trip to the most southern of our atolls takes between 24 30 hours

depending on the weather. Tokelaus ecosystem is a delicate and fragile. The land area is only 12 square kilometres with a

total of approximately 319,000 square kilometres of its exclusive economic zone. At no point does the land rise more than

5metres above sea level. Being overwhelmingly surrounded by the vast Pacific Ocean, the atolls are very susceptible to the

impacts of climate change and sea level raising. This is a major concern for Tokelau and we stand to lose not just our land

and environs but our culture and traditions which affirm the identity of our people.

At this juncture, it is appropriate that Tokelau acknowledges

rio+20 information

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