Oecd Env./Reg. Trade Agmts

Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs) have increased significantly in number over the past few years. The number of RTAs which include environmental provisions is also increasing. However, these provisions, and the experience related to their negotiation and implementation, have not been examined in depth yet. This study contributes to filling this gap. It provides an overview of approaches to environmental issues in RTAs and summarises country experiences in their negotiation and practical application. Regional and bilateral trade arrangements are surveyed, including customs unions and free trade agreements. The study is based on the analysis of RTA texts, and on literature examining their actual implementation, as well as on first-hand comments and input from experts from both OECD and non-OECD countries.

List of Acronyms and RTA Memberships Executive Summary Chapter 1. Introduction Chapter 2. Environment in Regional Trade Agreements Chapter 3. Negotiating Environmental Commitments in Regional Trade Ageements: Seme Key Questions Chapter 4. Assessing the Environmental Impacts of Regional Trade Agreements Chapter 5. Environmental Co-operation Chapter 6. Environmental Standards and Enforcement of Environemntal Laws Chapter 7. Procedural Guarantees, Enforcement Mechanisms, and Dispute Settlement Chapter 8. Parties' Rights to Adopt or Maintain Environmental Regulations Chapter 9. Public Participation and Consultation Chapter 10. Conclusions and Overview of Key Experiences Annex A. Selected RTAs Annex B. Environmental Side Agreements and Chapters on Environment in RTAs Annex C. Overview of Environmental Impact Assessments of Selected RTAs Annex D. Provisions on Environmental Co-operation in Selected RTAs Bibliography