sustainable development 20 years on from the ... - José Eli da Veiga

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(b)
(c)
Improve or establish clear national legal frameworks and procedures for obtaining
environmental information, with the necessary oversight mechanisms and procedures for
providing access to disadvantaged groups and groups who have traditionally been underrepresented
politically, such as women, young people, indigenous people and Afro-descendants
Expand citizen participation in the adoption of State policies, plans and programmes,
establishing clear and transparent mechanisms to consider citizens’ views
The difference between the public’s perception of what participation means and what is laid down
in legislation and regulatory frameworks is sometimes a source of frustration and mistrust when it comes
to real opportunities to influence environmental decision-making. Setting forth the way in which the
received views will be considered and making this transparent lends more credibility to the processes and
helps prevent potential conflict. Citizens’ role, contribution and participation should be extended to
international forums and negotiations as well.
(d)
Consider creating judicial bodies specialized in environmental matters
As suggested by The Access Initiative (<strong>20</strong>11), environmental courts may be a cheaper dispute
settlement option than traditional courts. They could be a faster and less expensive solution to
environmental claims brought by the public, since they would offer specialized attention and superior
knowledge of environmental legislation and science. The courts would need to be evenly distributed
across territories to provide access to those living in remote areas or who suffer from discrimination
because of their sex, race or ethnic origin.
(e)
(f)
Establish standards for the adoption of eco-labelling and other information mechanisms
that convey commitment by corporations to the principles of sustainability and which
inform and educate consumers
Improve or establish transparency and accountability laws applicable to national and
subnational public bodies
An accountability policy not only requires that the public be given a louder voice in the political
sphere, but also that governance reforms be carried out to give public institutions the incentives, experts,
information and procedures they need to meet the public’s specific needs.
Guideline 7
Strengthen education, culture, science and technology in order to build human
capital for sustainability
In line with Agenda 21, chapter 36, the following action must be taken to build human capital for
sustainability: