2002 CTAUN Conference
Environment, Education and the United Nations Working Towards Sustainable Development
Friday, January 11, 2002

Opening Address by Anne-Marie Carlson, Conference Chair

Anne-Marie Carlson

Mrs. Carlson welcomed participants to the conference, the fourth in an annual series, organized by the Committee on Teaching About the United Nations (CTAUN) in association with the United Nations Department of Public Information (UN/DPI).

She reported that 334 had registered, representing 6 countries. In addition to the U.S.A. with 15 states plus the District of Columbia, they were Canada (Ontario and Quebec), Denmark, Russia, and Cameroon. The registrants represented all levels of education from early childhood to university levels and both public and private/independent schools. There were also a number of environmental studies students from schools in Rastede, Germany; Newtown, PA; and Pearl River, NY.

An environmental information fair scheduled for early afternoon had exhibits and materials of interest for educators from 19 environmental groups. There was also a major display of environmental books at the U.N. Bookstore.

Introduction

Environmental Issues and the United Nations — Nitin Desai, United Nations Under-Secretary-General, Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA)

Nitin Desai

Noting that the environment issues know no boundaries, Mr. Desai stressed a need for global cooperation. Global issues, such as climate change, the ozone layer, and the protection of endangered species all require a global approach.

The United Nations operates on several levels. Its environmental monitoring and assessment brings together scientists on various issues and builds scientific consensus on the nature of the problems. This eventually leads to treaties to enforce action like the Kyoto Protocol on Climate Change.

By developing and acknowledging the shared values of our common humanity (e.g. Declaration of Human Rights) the UN also builds environmental awareness, reminding people of their environmental responsibilities.

Sustainable Development is the “step beyond.” Environment must be looked at in combination with and take into consideration the totality of human needs. For example, in India reforestation is not just an issue of vegetation, but must also involve alternative energy and building materials, agricultural land use, and planning.

The upcoming Johannesburg Summit will continue these processes. Information can be found on the web: http://www.johannesburgsummit.org.

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