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G8 Centre
Analytical Studies
Environment
If the 1999 Koln Summit is going to be a success this year, the leaders must speak on
important environmental issues and incorporate some of these concerns into their
deliberations, particularly given Germany's hosting of the summit and its traditional
strength in advancing coordination on international environmental issues.
Three of the major issues likely to emerge on the environmental agenda include the
following:
- Biosafety - this is becoming an increasingly difficult issue as international debate
continues over the advantages of genetically-modified foods. This issue essentially pits the
Americans and the Canadians against the Europeans, with the Japanese tending to side more
with the Europeans. What seems to primarly motivate European resistance is not the issue of
protectionism, rather the 'precautionary principle' -ie, the idea being that if the
possibility of harm with a certain product exits, it should be avoided. By contrast, the
Americans and Canadians generally tend to be of the opinion that if a particular product has
not demonstrated any negative effects, it is suitable for personal consumption. The leaders
will thus likely continue to recognize the need to pursue adequate consultations and
preparations in ensuring a successful conclusion to the negotiations of a biosafety protocol
no later than the fifth Conference of the Parties in May 2000.
- Climate change - the leaders are likely to emphasize timely progress in the
implementation of the Buenos Aires Action Plan with a view to early entry into force of the
Kyoto Protocol., with particular emphasis on a comprehensive compliance regime which would
include procedures and mechanisms containing binding consequences for non-compliant members.
2005 will remain a target deadline for the achievement of significant reductions in
greenhouse gas emissions. The leaders will further support the developing countries through
incentives, increased information flows, technology transfers and capacity building through
sustainable development means.
- Nuclear reactor safety - the leaders will emphasize the importance of the safe operation
of nuclear power plants and the achievement of high safety standards. They will also attach
great importance to the full implementation of the Nuclear Safety Account grants agreement,
particularly with respect to the Ukraine. The summit members will further stress that
funding from the G7 and other international donors envisaged under the M o U is dependent on
the closure of Chernobyl taking place as scheduled by 2000. The safety of Chernobyl reactor
3 continues to be of grave concern to the the G7 and will be further discussed during the
leaders deliberations at Koln.
Compiled by: Ella Kokotsis
June 1999
~ Objectives by Issue (Evaluative Criteria): 1999 Köln Summit ~
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