ASEAN Declaration on Environmental Sustainability

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Declaration on Environmental Sustainability was borne out of the ASEAN's determination to complement and support the efforts of global and regional organizations to tackle environmental issues. It noted with concern the findings of the Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change's Fourth Assessment Report that the warming of the climate system is unequivocal, as well as the adverse impacts of climate change caused by greenhouse gas emissions, particularly to developing countries (e.g., loss of biodiversity, social, heal and economic consequences). The ASEAN Members, therefore, declared, among others, that they will intensify regional and international cooperation in promoting, sharing and implementing environmentally sustainable practices, including the transfer of environmentally-sound technologies, enhancement of human and institutional capacities, and the promotion of sustainable consumption and production patterns. They will likewise intensify individual and collective efforts to improve the quality of air and water within ASEAN through regional or national initiatives to reduce industrial and transportation pollution. Furthermore, they shall promote sustainable management and use of soil, forest, and coastal and marine environments as part of regional and global efforts on biodiversity conservation.