17 June 2012
UNCTAD has been called upon by the UN system to contribute to the UNCSD - Rio+20 process. Writing for the Road to Rio+20 e-magazine, UNCTAD Secretary-General Supachai Panitchpakdi argues for a green economy that provides trade opportunities to countries at varied levels of development.
In an article entitled Engaging in the Transition to a Green Economy, the UNCTAD Secretary-General presents key issues and considerations that need to be taken into account in the deliberations at the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (UNCSD) taking place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil this week.
The article argues that sustainable development is an imperative rather than an option; describes the role of states and markets in a transition to a green economy; highlights the role of trade in advancing a green economy; and examines developing countries’ need for technical and financial assistance to make successful green economy transitions that are adapted to every countries’ own circumstances.
In concluding, ideas are suggested on what UNCTAD can do to help developing countries accrue development gains from a green economy.
