The Stockholm Conference of 1972 was a pivotal moment in history, marking the beginning of global dialogues on sustainable development, climate change, and other environmental challenges. This year, fifty years since that significant conference, an international meeting named Stockholm+50 will be held in Stockholm, Sweden to review progress, address contemporary issues and navigate the way forward. Some of these issues include the triple planetary crisis of climate change, pollution and waste, and nature and biodiversity loss, which still threatens the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Genesis- The Stockholm Conference of 1972
It was in 1968 that the concept of climate change first surfaced in the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, following a research study that provided estimates of global temperature based on CO2 levels. Sweden proposed the idea of the Stockholm Conference, earning it the name “Swedish Initiative”. Held from June 5th to 16th, 1972, this conference marked the first global convergence on the environmental crisis. It witnessed participation from 122 countries and aimed at creating a common governance framework for the planetary environment and natural resources.
Stockholm Declaration and Action Plan for the Human Environment
The Stockholm Declaration adopted by 70 developing and poor countries consists of 26 principles that started the conversation between developed and developing countries. These principles highlighted the interconnection between development, poverty, and the environment. The Action Plan consisted of three main categories: Global Environmental Assessment Programme, Environmental management activities, and International measures to support assessment and management activities at national and international levels.
Key Agreements and Resolutions
The Stockholm Declaration laid out a number of key agreements concerning the protection and sustainable use of natural resources. These included safeguarding natural resources, limiting the release of toxic substances, supporting poor and developing nations in their fight against pollution, and ensuring that state environmental policies prioritize the development potential of developing countries.
The Impact of the Stockholm Conference
The Stockholm Conference changed the global perspective towards the environment. Prior to 1972, the domain of environment was not recognized officially by any nation. Post-conference, countries began establishing ministries for the environment, with India setting up its Ministry of Environment and Forest in 1985. The conference significantly increased public consciousness about environmental issues like species extinction and mercury poisoning. Major conventions today, such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), trace their origin back to the Stockholm Declaration.
Challenges and Hurdles
Despite significant progress, numerous challenges remain. Global politics have continuously posed a threat to the conference’s objectives, with many nations expressing concerns about the dominance of wealthier, industrialised countries. Uncoordinated responses have resulted in severe climate change threats, and poverty continues to hinder the adoption of sustainable measures for a healthy environment.
The Way Forward: Stockholm+50 and Beyond
The Stockholm+50 conference offers a valuable opportunity to address these challenges and redefine the approach towards environmental conservation and sustainability. The majority of the world needs to understand that ecology does not work against their interests; rather, it brings improvements to their lives. Measures for environment protection must ensure economic upliftment of developing countries. As time is short, Stockholm+50 must set specific deadlines for achieving sustainable environment goals.
Relevance of Stockholm+50 in UPSC Civil Services Examination
Understanding the importance of the Stockholm Conference and its aftermath is crucial for aspirants preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination. Questions related to the Global Environment Facility, which serves as a financial mechanism for crucial conventions like the Convention on Biological Diversity and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change often appear in this examination. The Stockholm+50 conference’s outcomes will likely be significant for future examinations.