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WTO Negotiations on Environmental Goods

Author(s)

Ms Maria Julia Oliva .

Prof Anne Petitpierre .

Mr Matthew Stilwell .

Mr Urs P. Thomas .

Research Project

Technology Transfer, Trade, and the Environment: Promoting Synergy for Sustainable Development among the World Trade Organisation and Multilateral Environmental Agreements

> see the project description

Keywords

Environmental Goods - WTO

Abstract

This informal roundtable discussion was organized in the context of the RUIG/GIAN project on Technology Transfer, Trade, and the Environment, which aims to increase awareness of the synergies between trade and environment in relation to access and dissemination of technology and promote dialogue between the trade and environmental communities. In particular, the focus of the roundtable was on the World Trade Organization (WTO) negotiations on environmental goods under paragraph 31(iii) of the Doha Ministerial Declaration, which are considered to be an important opportunity to increase the flow of environmentally sound technologies, but are still stalled as negotiators struggle to address a number of conceptual, methodological, and political questions. Discussions acknowledged these difficulties, but also raised some ideas that may facilitate the definition of a “landing zone” for the conclusion of these negotiations. In addition, interventions reflected willingness to continue working towards a solution agreeable to all WTO Members. Finally, it is clear that technology-related issues are central in the debate and will be a critical aspect of any potential solution. It is hoped the RUIG/GIAN project will continue to contribute in this regard.

File(s)

WTO Negotiations on Environmental Goods: Promoting Transfer of Technology for Sustainable Development?
English | [193 ko] > download
Advancing the WTO Environmental Goods Negotiations: Options and Opportunities
English | [238 ko] > download