July 18, 2006

The Future of Technology Transfer under International Environmental Agreements

Co-sponsored by the American Bar Association, Section of International Law, and the Environmental Law Institute

Increasingly, multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs) tackle our most complex global environmental problems and require major transfers of financial and technological resources from developed countries to developing countries. As a result, MEAs provide for the establishment of so-called “technology transfer” regimes, which are included to assist developing countries in meeting their obligations. International co-operation has particularly focused on the transfer of specific environmentally sound technologies. However, the different technology transfer initiatives — including those addressing climate change, protection of the ozone layer, and hazardous waste management — have had varying degrees of success. The different experiences highlight a number of lessons learned that can assist in improving future implementation of technology transfer.

Our distinguished panelists reviewed technology transfer provisions, discussed obstacles to implementing them, and suggested solutions drawing upon experiences to date.

Panelists included:
James Shepherd, Environmental Law Institute Visiting Scholar
Peter Repinski, United Nations Environmental Programme
Elmer Holt, U.S. Department of Energy

Moderated by:
Jay Pendergrass, Environmental Law Institute