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....
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