Follow-up on geo-engineering and precaution

(BY HUGO)

The draft recommendations of the Fourteenth meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific Technical and Technological Advice to the Convention on Biological Diversity reads as follows with respect to geo-engineering:

«(t) [Ensure, in line and consistent with decision IX/16 C, on ocean fertilization and biodiversity and climate change, and in accordance with the precautionary approach, that no climaterelated geo-engineering activities take place until there is an adequate scientific basis on which to justify such activities and appropriate consideration of the associated risks for the environment and biodiversity and associated social, economic and cultural impacts];»

As always, Canada can be relied on in diplomatic fora to present positions as antagonistic as possible to any form of environmental protection. According to IISD reporting services, Canada opposes restrictions on geo-engineering activities:

«CANADA suggested “examining” related geoengineering activities to determine if there is an adequate scientific basis to justify them, rather than preventing such activities until an adequate scientific basis to justify them exists.»