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The nations in Asia and the Pacific region share many of the same global environmental challenges. At the same time, they face a number of specific problems related to the environmental, demographic, economic, and social diversity of the region. With regard to the major environmental and developmental challenges facing the region, a wealth of knowledge has been generated over the ten years that have passed since the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development. There is undoubtedly a broader and deeper understanding of the state of the environment, socio-economic development, and their respective interactions. On the other hand, there is a persistent feeling that the level of actions taken to address these problems has lagged behind the progress in scientific knowledge of their underlying causes, effects, and possible means of solution.
The gap between knowledge and action keeps affecting progress towards sustainable development. In this respect, IGES, the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies, has made research efforts to fill this gap since its establishment in 1998. It now endeavors to work towards the publication of a "White Paper on the Environment in Asia and the Pacific" by the end of the year 2004. The IGES White Paper is intended to not only analyze environmental challenges, but also bring forward innovative policy options and strategies for further actions towards sustainable development in Asia and the Pacific region. It is hoped that the process and outcome of the White Paper will promote dynamic partnerships and contribute to bridge scientific knowledge generation and policy decision-making.
This document deals with ongoing research activities. It is, however, a part of the preparatory work introducing IGES's activities towards the publication of the IGES White Paper on the Environment in Asia and the Pacific. We welcome your comments on this issue and the plan for the IGES White Paper.
Remarks:
IGES White Paper Project report to the WSSD, August 2002.
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