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National Implementation of Agenda 21
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Information Provided by the Government of the Republic of
Mauritius to the United Nations Commission on Sustainable
Development
United Nations Department for Policy Coordination and
Sustainable Development
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This country profile has been provided by:
Name of Ministry/Office: Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life
Date: 18.12.96
Submitted by: P. Ramgolam Title: Ag. Divisional Environment Officer
Mailing address: Ken Lee Tower, 2nd floor, Barracks Street, Port Louis, Mauritius
Telephone: 230 212 43 85
Telefax: 230 212 66 71
E-mail:
Note from the Secretariat: An effort has been made to present all country profiles within a common format, with an equal number of pages. However, where Governments have not provided information for the tables appended to Chapters 4 and 17, those tables have been omitted entirely in order to reduce the overall length of the profile and save paper. Consequently, there may be some minor inconsistencies among the formats of the different country profiles.
All statistics are rendered as provided by the respective Governments.
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| APELL | Awareness and Preparedness for Emergencies at Local Level |
| CFC | chlorofluorocarbon |
| CGIAR | Consultative Group on International Agriculture Research |
| CILSS | Permanent Inter-State Committee on Drought Control in the Sahel |
| EEZ | exclusive economic zone |
| ECA | Economic Commission for Africa |
| ECE | Economic Commission for Europe |
| ECLAC | Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean |
| ELCI | Environmental Liaison Centre International |
| EMINWA | environmentally sound management of inland water |
| ESCAP | Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific |
| ESCWA | Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia |
| FAO | Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations |
| GATT | General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade |
| GAW | Global Atmosphere Watch (WMO) |
| GEF | Global Environment Facility |
| GEMS | Global Environmental Monitoring System (UNEP) |
| GEMS/WATER | Global Water Quality Monitoring Programme |
| GESAMP | Joint Group of Experts on the Scientific Aspects of Marine Pollution |
| GIPME | Global Investigation of Pollution in Marine Environment (UNESCO) |
| GIS | Geographical Information System |
| GLOBE | Global Legislators Organisation for a Balanced Environment |
| GOS | Global Observing System (WMO/WWW) |
| GRID | Global Resource Information Database |
| GSP | generalized system of preferences |
| HIV | human immunodeficiency virus |
| IAEA | International Atomic Energy Agency |
| IAP-WASAD | International Action Programme on Water and Sustainable Agricultural Development |
| IARC | International Agency for Research on Cancer |
| IBSRAM | International Board of Soil Resources and Management |
| ICCA | International Council of Chemical Associations |
| ICES | International Council for the Exploration of the Sea |
| ICPIC | International Cleaner Production Information Clearing House |
| ICSC | International Civil Service Commission |
| ICSU | International Council of Scientific Unions |
| IEEA | Integrated environmental and economic accounting |
| IFAD | International Fund for Agricultural Development |
| IGADD | Intergovernmental Authority for Drought and Development |
| IGBP | International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme (ICSU) |
| IGBP/START | International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme/Global Change System for Analysis, Research and Training |
| ILO | International Labour Organisation |
| IMF | International Monetary Fund |
| IMO | International Maritime Organization |
| INFOTERRA | International Environment Information system (UNEP) |
| IOC | Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission |
| IPCC | Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change |
| IPCS | International Programme on Chemical Safety |
| IPM | integrated pest management |
| IRPTC | International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals |
| ITC | International Tin Council |
| ITTO | International Tropical Timber Organization |
| IUCN | International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources |
| MARPOL | International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships |
| OECD | Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development |
| PGRFA | plant genetic resources for agriculture |
| PIC | prior informed consent procedure |
| SADCC | South African Development Co-ordination Conference |
| SARD | sustainable agriculture and rural development |
| UNCTAD | United Nations Conference on Trade and Development |
| UNDP | United Nations Development Programme |
| UNDRO | Office of the United Nations Disaster Relief Coordinator |
| UNEP | United Nations Environment Programme |
| UNESCO | United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization |
| UNFPA | United Nations Population Fund |
| UNICEF | United Nations Children's Fund |
| UNIDO | United Nations Industrial Development Organization |
| UNU | United Nations University |
| WCP | World Climate Programme (WMO/UNEP/ICSU/UNESCO) |
| WFC | World Food Council |
| WHO | World Health Organization |
| WMO | World Meteorological Organization |
| WWF | World Wide Fund for Nature (also called World Wildlife Fund) |
| WWW | World Weather Watch (WMO) |
1. Name of Key National Sustainable Development Coordination Mechanism(s)/Council(s). National Environment Commission
Contact point (Name, Title, Office): Mr R.H. Prayag, Director, Department of Environment
Telephone: 230 212 6080
Fax: 230 212 6671
e-mail:
Mailing address: Ministry of Environment and Quality of life Ken Lee Tower, 2nd floor, Barracks Street, Port Louis, Mauritius
2. Membership/Composition/Chairperson:
2a. List of ministries and agencies involved:
Chairman: Dr Hn. N. Ramgoolam, Prime Minister Vice Chairman: Hon. S. Lauthan, Minister of Environment & Quality of Life Members: Minister of Economic Planning, Information and Telecommunications, Minister of Education, Science and Technology, Minister of Energy and Water Resources, Minister of Tourism, Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Minister of Works, Minister of Industry, Industrial Technology, Scientific Research and Handicraft, Minister of Local Government, Minister of Justice and Industrial Relations, Minister of Health and Minister of Finance.
2b. Names of para-statal bodies and institutions involved, as well as participating of academic and private sector bodies: NIL 2c. Names of non-governmental organizations involved: NIL 3. Mandate role of above mechanism/council: (i) Set national goals and objectives, and determine policies and priorities for the protection of the environment (ii) Review progress made by public departments on any aspect of environmental management projects and programmes. (iii) ensure coordination and cooperation between public departments, local authorities, and other government organizations engaged in environmental protection programmes. (iv) Make recommendations and issue such directions as may determine to public departments. (v) Monitor and review activities of public departments concerned with the protection of and management of the environment.
4. If available, attach a diagram (organization chart) showing national coordination structure and linkages between ministries:
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AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 2: INTERNATIONAL
COOPERATION TO ACCELERATE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN DEVELOPING
COUNTRIES AND RELATED DOMESTIC POLICIES (with special emphasis on
TRADE)
No information
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: no information
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information
3. Major Groups: No information
4. Finance: No information
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 3: COMBATING POVERTY
Focus of national strategy
No information
Highlight activities aimed at the poor and linkages to the
environment
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: No information
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information
3. Major Groups: No information
4. Finance: No information
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information
NB: Developed countries, where domestic poverty alleviation is not
a major concern may wish to briefly describe their
position regarding global poverty alleviation.
| Latest 199_ | |||||
| Unemployment (%) | |||||
| Population living in absolute poverty | |||||
| Public spending on social sector % | |||||
| Other data
| |||||
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 4: CHANGING CONSUMPTION
PATTERNS
National policy objectives/focus:
(1) Promotion of appropriate diets and healthy lifestyles.
(2) Setting dietary guidelines for Mauritius
(3) Protection of consumers through improved food quality and
safety.
National targets
(1) Decreasing consumption of oils and fats.
(2) Raising the consumption of key foods.
(3) Maintaining the present consumption level of rice.
(4) Limiting alcohol intake.
(5) Enforcement of the Food Act.
NATIONAL PRIORITY: Reduction of diet related
chronic diseases.
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: The Nutrition Unit( N.C.D.),
and the Ministry of Health.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Strengthening
training facilities for Health Care Personnel.
3. Major Groups: Doctors, nutritionists, nursing officers,
and community health care workers.
4. Finance: MOH, UNICEF, and WHO.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: UNICEF and WHO.
| GDP per capita (current US$) (factor cost) | |||||
| Real GDP growth (%) | |||||
| Annual energy consumption per capita (Kg. of oil equivalent per capita) | |||||
| Motor vehicles in use per 1000 inhabitants | |||||
| Other data
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Government policies affecting consumption and production.
1. Goals and Agents (Stakeholders)
Indicate with a (X) those agents which your Governments policies are meant most to influence.
| Agents Goals | |||||
| Material efficiency | |||||
| Energy efficiency: | |||||
| Transport | |||||
| Housing | |||||
| Other | |||||
| Waste: | |||||
| Reduce | |||||
| Reuse | |||||
| Recycle |
Comments:
2. Means & Measures and Agents (Stakeholders)
Indicate with an (R) those agents who assume primary responsibility for any of the policy measures indicated; indicate with an (I) the agents for which the impact is expected to be especially significant.
| Agents Means & Measures | |||||
| Improving understanding and analysis | |||||
| Information and education (e.g., radio/TV/press) | |||||
| Research | |||||
| Evaluating environmental claims | |||||
| Form partnerships | |||||
| Applying tools for modifying behaviour | |||||
| Community based strategies | |||||
| Social incentives/disincentives (e.g., ecolabelling) | |||||
| Regulatory instruments | |||||
| Economic incentives/disincentives | |||||
| Voluntary agreements of producer responsibility
for aspects of product life cycle | |||||
| Provision of enabling facilities and
infrastructure (e.g., transportation alternatives, recycling) | |||||
| Procurement policy | |||||
| Monitoring, evaluating and reviewing performance | |||||
| Action campaign | |||||
| Other (specify) |
Comments:
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 5: DEMOGRAPHIC DYNAMICS AND
SUSTAINABILITY
| NATIONAL PRIORITY: To maintain fertility at replacement level. | ||||
| STATUS REPORT: The governments' view
on fertility level and population growth is satisfactory. Its
population
policies aim to maintain the status quo.
Mauritius is one of the few countries which has achieved its demographic transition in quite a short period of time.
The population was about 700,000 in 1962, growing at a rate above 3% per annum, and projected to reach about 2.7 million by the year 2000. However, with the implementation of a national family planning programme, the population growth rate has decreased to about 1% per annum at present, and the present population size is about 1.2 million.
The average number of children per couple was 6 in 1992 compared to 2 at present. In fact, during the period of 1985-1986 fertility was below the replacement level. However, after 1989, the fertility rate incresed slightly, reaching 2.36% in 1992. Since then efforts have been made to bring down and maintain fertility at replacement level.
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1. Decision-Making Structure: The Ministry of Health is
primarily responsible for population issues, including the
implementation of population programmes. It contributed to writing
the chapter on population in the National
Development Plan.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information
3. Major Groups: No information
4. Finance: The Central Government finances all population
programmes.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information
| Population (Thousands) mid-year estimates | ||||
| Annual rate of increase (1990-1993) | ||||
| Surface area (Km2) | ||||
| Population density (people/Km2) | ||||
| Other data
| ||||
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 6: PROTECTING AND PROMOTING
HUMAN HEALTH
A. Major diseases and percentage of the total burden of disease
in Mauritius (1993)
1. Ischaemic heart disease 11.6%
2. Chronic respiratory disease 8.1%
3. Stroke 6.9%
4. Diabetes 5.2%
5. Prenatal problems 5.1%
6. Liver Cirrhosis 3.4%
7. Alcohol dependence 3.3%
8. Road traffic accidents 3.2%
B. Interventions
(i) Since 1988 MOH initiated mass media campaigns to sensitize the
population to healthy nutrition and lifestyles.
(ii) Strengthening the primary health care network for health
promotion, early detection of risk factors for NCD's, and
better control of chronic diseases such as diabetes and
hypertension.
(iii) Legislation on tobacco and alcohol.
Tobacco
- Banning radio advertisement;
- Discouraging sponsorship of sports events;
- Increase excised duties on tobacco;
- Promote smoke free areas, such as hospitals, and schools, etc;
- Individuals under 18 are not allowed to buy cigarettes.
Alcohol
- Control of new permits for licensed premises;
- Increase excised duties on alcohol;
- Limit opening hours of bars.
NATIONAL PRIORITY: Reduction of the burden of
diseases due to non-communicable diseases (NCD) and
perinatal problems.
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: The Ministry of Health,
through vertical programme units:
- Disease Control Unit
- Nutrition Unit
- HIEC Unit
- Primary Health Care
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues:
- There is no medical school in Mauritius but technical courses
in nursing and pharmacy are provided locally.
- Lack of opportunities for inservice training for HIEC
officers, epidemiology, etc.
- Technical and manpower constraints in the field of health
promotion activities.
3. Major Groups: Intersectoral collaboration between
various ministries, local institutions, NGOs, and international
organizations.
4. Finance: Financing of health care services accounts for
3.5% of the GDP, of which 40% comes from private sources.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: The World Health
Organization (WHO), the United Nations Children's Fund
(UNICEF), and the World Bank provide technical, material and
financial assistance.
| Life expectancy at birth Male Female |
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| Infant mortality (per 1000 live births) | ||||
| Maternal mortality rate (per 100000 live births) | ||||
| Access to safe drinking water (% of population) | ||||
| Access to sanitation services (% of population) | ||||
| Crude birth rate (per 1000 population) | ||||
| Percentage of women delivering in the presence of qualified assistance | ||||
| Number of inhabitants per doctor (public and private) | ||||
| Other data | ||||
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 7: PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE HUMAN
SETTLEMENT DEVELOPMENT
Efforts are being made by the municipalities, in the five townships
which group half of the population, to provide
satisfactory services for drinking water, sanitation, solid waste
disposal and transport. For the urban and rural poor, for
whom the environmental priorities remain improved housing, and the
provision of basic services at affordable costs, the
government has oriented its policy to facilitate both access to
durable housing and housing financed by low and middle
income groups.
The current policy aims to facilitate access to residential land
and home ownership to all social classes, to insist on the
provision of adequate infrastructure and services in all
residential areas, and to require adequate disposal of wastes.
Thus,
control is exercised to prevent the dumping of waste into water
courses or the sea, to collect hazardous wastes, and to
dispose of sewage sludge properly. Regarding the former, a special
programme is being implemented to eliminate pit
latrines and cases of night soil collection, replacing them by
flush or proper sewage systems. In the same spirit, a special
fund is being set up to improve and upgrade the state of human
settlements across the country.
A key element of the government's policy aims to provide decent,
durable, and adequate housing for every household.
The country is moving steadily towards this goal as currently
three-quarters of Mauritian families already own their own
houses.
It must be admitted that in the area of energy, a firm strategy
needs to be adopted to lower the level of emissions and
reduce the harmful effects of vehicular transport. However,
positive changes are likely to occur in the next few years.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: Public authorities have increased
awareness among the population of the process of urbanization in
the country, its merits as well as negative effects on the physical
environment and the deterioration that might occur in
towns. The importance of land management and sound living
conditions are also being increasingly understood.
1. Decision-Making Structure: The two basic sectoral laws, the Building Act and the Town and Country Planning Act, are being or will soon be amended to promote a more efficient application of proper building and planning standards, enhance the role of the local authorities in housing and planning issues, and provide a more efficient framework for human settlements development.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: It must be emphasized that human settlement issues are given due consideration, whenever relevant, in all major projects undertaken by both the public and private sectors. Environmental Impact Assessment Reports are now commonly required by the Ministry of Environment.
A new Housing and Human Settlements Division, properly staffed, is being established within the Ministry of Housing, Lands and Town and Country Planning. Several scholarships have been available from the UK, India, Australia, and France for training courses in town and country planning, and possibly in housing in the near future.
3. Major Groups: (i) The Ministry of Housing, Lands and Town and Country Planning; (ii) The Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life; (iii) The 5 urban authorities (Municipalities); (iv) The 4 rural authorities (District Councils).
4. Finance: Funds for human settlements development are obtained mostly from government sources. Since 1990/91 substantial loans have been obtained from Malaysia and China, by the National Housing Development Company, the implementation arm of the government's housing programme, for the construction of housing estates in favour of low and lower middle income groups.
Loans for construction on private sites are available, generally at concessional rates of interest, from the Mauritius Housing Company, which is financed by the government and private insurance companies. Commercial banks also provide loans for housing construction but at higher rates.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: Mauritius cooperates with mainland Africa, especially with the southern and eastern areas, through meetings and seminars which are often held under the auspices of UNCHS-HABITAT. In recent years, SADC (Southern Africa Development Community) has shown interest in joint action in human settlement matters.
Mauritius attended preparatory meetings for Habitat II in Uganda (1994) and Johannesburg (1995), and attended the Habitat II conference itself.
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| Urban population in % of total population | |||
| Annual rate of growth of urban population (%) | |||
| Largest city population (in % of total population) | |||
| Other data | |||
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 8: INTEGRATING ENVIRONMENT AND
DEVELOPMENT IN DECISION-MAKING
The guiding principles for environmental policy objectives, which
form the basis for development planning are the
following:
(i) Maintain a clean and healthy environment;
(ii) Maintain the quality of the environment relative to the needs
of the growing population;
(iii) Place more emphasis on prevention through conservation rather
than curative measures;
(iv) Minimize the impact of the growing population and human
activities relating to deforestation, agriculture,
urbanization, and tourism, on the environment;
(v) Incorporate an environmental dimension in project planning and
implementation through the conduct of Environmental
Impact Assessment Studies. (EIA).
Thus, in the integrated project planning approach, environmental
considerations are incorporated into project planning
implementation through a mandatory requirement under the EPA. Any
proposed activity listed in the fifth schedule of the
EPA cannot be implemented until an EIA report has been submitted by
the proponent, and a EIA license has been
received.
Apart from the strategies described above, other major
environmental policies include the following:
(i) Strengthening of environmental monitoring;
(ii) Promotion of environmental education, information, training,
and awareness;
(iii) Intensification of environmental research and development.
NATIONAL PRIORITY: Integrating environment and development
in decision-making
STATUS REPORT: Mauritius maintains a positive
approach towards the environment. Strategies for environmental
management are continually evolving and undergoing improvement. The
country's awareness and commitment towards the
environment can be traced as far back as 1988, when a World Bank
team assisted the government of Mauritius in
preparing a National Environment Action Plan (NEAP) to address
major environmental issues. In accordance with the
institutional legislative recommendations of the NEAP, a full
fledged Ministry for the Environment was created in
November 1989, and the Environment Protection Act (EPA) was enacted
in 1991. The seriousness of the government in
addressing environmental issues was also reflected in the
preparation of a White Paper on the National Environment
Policy in july 1990, based on the principles of sustainable
development.
1. Decision-Making Structure (please also refer to the fact
sheet): The Ministry of Environment in cooperation with
other national institutions.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information
3. Major Groups: No information
4. Finance: No information
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 9: PROTECTION OF THE
ATMOSPHERE
The Montreal Protocol and its Amendments
The Montreal Protocol (1987) was signed in 1992, and ratified on
August 18, 1992.
The London Amendment (1990) was signed on October 20, 1992.
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
The UNFCCC was signed in 1992, and ratified on September 4,
1992.
Additional comments relevant to this chapter
With the assistance of the US Country Studies Programme, Mauritius
is preparing its National Inventory of GHG
emissions, and has also undertaken various studies, including the
vulnerability assessment and adaptation measures for
water resources, agriculture (sugar cane), and coastal protection.
The Government also supports the conservation and enhancement of
sinks and reservoirs of greenhouse gases, including
biomass, forests and oceans, as well as other terrestrial, coastal,
and marine ecosystems, through forest preservation,
ongoing programme of reforestation, and establishment of Nature
marine parks.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: The following institutions
are responsible for the protection of the atmosphere:
The Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Health, and the
Meteorological Services. Legislation to protect the
atmosphere is under review.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: NIL
3. Major Groups: NIL
4. Finance: NIL
5. Regional/International Cooperation: NIL
| CO2 emissions (eq. million tons) | ||||
| SOx " | ||||
| NOx " | ||||
| CH4 " | ||||
| Consumption of ozone depleting substances (Tons) | ||||
| Expenditure on air pollution abatement in US$ equivalents (million) | ||||
| Other data: (*) Data not available
| ||||
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 10: INTEGRATED APPROACH TO
THE PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT OF LAND
RESOURCES
In concrete terms, the NPDP testifies to the government's
commitment towards the sustainable use of resources and
purports to strike a balance between development and the protection
of the environment, while at the same time seeking
social equity.
The NPDP has two main objectives, namely:
(i) To provide a coherent framework for the formulation of
Outline Schemes in respect to the nine existing local
authorities covering the entire Island of Mauritius. Outline
Schemes, almost in the process of completion, set out broad
land use proposals for the development of a planning area,
including such matters as the location and extent of areas for
new housing, commerce and industry; the reservation of sites for
public amenities; and the proposals for road
development, protection of agricultural zones, etc.
(ii) To provide a spatial framework for guiding both public
and private sector investment resources. In this context, the
major problem encountered relates to the establishment of a working
relationship among economic planning functions
(Ministry of Economic Planning and Development), budgetary
functions (Ministry of Finance), the infrastructure agencies
(Central Water Authority, Central Electrical Board, etc.), and the
Planning Division of this Ministry.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: The introduction in 1994 of the
National Physical Development Plan (NPDP), prepared under the
Environmental Investment Programme, marked a historical step
towards handling multi-sectoral issues such as housing,
industry, leisure, and environment, within the overall development
process in an integrated fashion.
1. Decision-Making Structure: (refer also to the fact
sheet)
The National Environment Commission and the Environment
Coordination Commission.
Local authorities are statutorily responsible for the
implementation of Outline Schemes, while this ministry only advises
on
important strategic issues.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Ad hoc training
programmes for officers of the Department of Environment.
The effective elaboration and implementation of plans, which
evolved within the overall planning process, has been
hindered due to the lack of adequate human resources both at the
professional and sub-professional level.
3. Major Groups: Governmental organizations, Parastatal
bodies, and NGOs.
4. Finance: No information
5. Regional/International Cooperation: Active participation
at the national and international levels on environmental
issues.
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 11: COMBATING
DEFORESTATION
No information
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: No information
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information
3. Major Groups: No information
4. Finance: No information
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information
| Latest 199- | ||||
| Forest Area (Km2) | ||||
| Protected forest area | ||||
| Roundwood production (solid volume of roundwood without bark in mill m3) | ||||
| Deforestation rate (Km2/annum) | ||||
| Reforestation rate (Km2/annum) | ||||
| Other data
| ||||
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 12: MANAGING FRAGILE
ECOSYSTEMS: COMBATING DESERTIFICATION AND
DROUGHT
International Convention to Combat Desertification in Countries
Experiencing Drought and/or Desertification
Particularly in Africa
Additional comments relevant to this chapter
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: No information
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information
3. Major Groups: No information
4. Finance: No information
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information
| Latest 199_ | ||||
| Land affected by desertification (Km2) | ||||
| Other data
| ||||
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 13: MANAGING FRAGILE
ECOSYSTEMS: SUSTAINABLE MOUNTAIN DEVELOPMENT
No information
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: No information
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information
3. Major Groups: No information
4. Finance: No information
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information
|
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 14: PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE
AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT
No information
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: No information
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information
3. Major Groups: No information
4. Finance: No information
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information
| Latest 199_ | ||||
| Agricultural land (Km2) | ||||
| Agricultural land as % of total land area | ||||
| Agricultural land per capita | ||||
| Latest 199_ | ||||
| Consumption of fertilizers per Km2 of agricultural land as of 1990 | ||||
| Other data
| ||||
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 15: CONSERVATION OF
BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY
Convention on Biological Diversity
No information
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild
Fauna and Flora
Additional comments relevant to this chapter
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: No information
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information
3. Major Groups: No information
4. Finance: No information
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information
| Latest 199_ | |||
| Protected area as % of total land area | |||
| Latest 199_ | |||
| Number of threatened species | |||
| Other data
| |||
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 16: ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND
MANAGEMENT OF BIOTECHNOLOGY
No information
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: No information
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information
3. Major Groups: No information
4. Finance: No information
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information
|
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 17: PROTECTION OF THE
OCEANS, ALL KINDS OF SEAS, INCLUDING ENCLOSED
AND SEMI-ENCLOSED SEAS, AND COASTAL AREAS AND THE PROTECTION,
RATIONAL USE AND DEVELOPMENT OF THEIR LIVING RESOURCES
The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea
See also the attached tables on the next pages.
The Fisheries Act (1980) and the Maritime Zones Act (1977) are
under review.
Tourism is a very important sector of the economy in Mauritius,
accounting for 292 million in revenues or 47% of the
Island's GDP (1994). Considering tourism's importance at the
national level, the country has achieved considerable
progress in promoting sustainability in such areas as:
environmental impact assessment, which has become a prerequisite
for all scheduled undertakings (a provision of the Environment
Protection Act 1991), and development of eco-tourism, an
increasingly significant activity for the country. The development
of complementaries, including packaged options, with
other states is also achieved through bilateral agreements (i.e.
with the Indian Ocean Rim and Europe).
Various national agencies and government bodies, including the
Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, the Central
Water Authority, the Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life,
the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, the
Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of
Housing, Lands and Town and Country Planning, among
others, have been active in implementing measures for the
management of freshwater resources, energy, land use,
transportation in tourist resort areas, and construction in coastal
areas. Other measures include the prevention of near
shore water pollution, waste minimization, and the improvement and
expansion of health facilities.
Regarding natural and environmental disaster reduction, Mauritius
has also taken steps to improve communication
networks, promote exchange and dissemination of information for
disaster preparedness, including early warning and pre-disaster
planning, and relevant training and access to technology for early
warning, risk assessment and disaster
management. Mauritius has also established a disaster emergency
fund, under the Prime Minister's office, for efficient
and quick response and relief.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine resources is primarily responsible for ensuring integrated planning and implementation.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Mauritius participates in international cooperative scientific programmes, such as the Indo Pacific Tuna Programme (IPTP) of FAO, the regional tuna project of the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC), and the regional environment programme of the IOC.
National institutions responsible for integrated coastal management have access to several data bases, including the regional tuna database, the bank fishery database, and the marine ecosystem and coastal pollution database.
3. Major Groups:
4. Finance: Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
5. Regional/International Cooperation: JICA, Indian Ocean Commission (IOC), Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), UNEP, and IPTP. Mauritius is also a member of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) and the Western Indian Ocean Tuna Organization (WIOTO).
|
| Catches of marine species (metric tons) | ||||
| Population in coastal areas | ||||
| Population served by waste water treatment (% of
country's total population) | ||||
| Discharges of oil into coastal waters (metric tons) | ||||
| Releases of phosphate into coastal waters (metric tons) | ||||
| Releases of nitrate into coastal waters (metric tons) | ||||
| Other data
| ||||
Chapter 17 (Oceans) Continued:
| Check the boxes in the column below left: | Check the boxes in the column below right: |
| For level of importance use: | For level of implementation use: |
| *** = very important | *** = fully covered |
| ** = important | ** = well covered- gaps being addressed |
| * = not important | * = poorly covered |
| N = not relevant | O = not covered; N = not relevant |
TABLE I. THE FOLLOWING ACTIVITIES HAVE BEEN CONSIDERED BY THE APPROPRIATE COORDINATING MECHANISM FOR INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF COASTAL AND MARINE AREAS AND THEIR RESOURCES.
| a. Preparation and implementation of land and water use and siting policies. | ||
| b. Implementation of integrated coastal and marine management and sustainable development plans and programmes at appropriate levels. | ||
| c. Preparation of coastal profiles identifying critical areas including eroded zones, physical processes, development patterns, user conflicts and specific priorities for management. | ||
| d. Prior environmental impact assessment, systematic observation and follow-up of major projects, including systematic incorporation of results in decision-making. | ||
| e. Contingency plans for human induced and natural disasters. | ||
| f. Improvement of coastal human settlements, especially in housing, drinking water and treatment and disposal of sewage, solid wastes and industrial effluents. | ||
| g. Periodic assessment of the impacts of external factors and phenomena to ensure that the objectives of integrated management and sustainable development of coastal areas and marine environment are met. | ||
| h. Conservation and restoration of altered critical habitats. | ||
| I. Integration of sectoral programmes on sustainable development for settlements, agriculture, tourism, fishing, ports and industries affecting the coastal areas. | ||
| J. Infrastructure adaptation and alternative employment. | ||
| K. Human resource development and training. | ||
| L. Public education, awareness and information programmes. | ||
| M. Promoting environmentally sound technology and sustainable practices. | ||
| N. Development and simultaneous implementation of environmental quality criteria. |
TABLE II. TECHNOLOGY (MARINE ENVIRONMENT)
| A. Apply preventive, precautionary and anticipatory approaches so as to avoid degradation of the marine environment, as well as to reduce the risk of long-term or irreversible adverse effects upon it. | ||
| B. Ensure prior assessment of activities that may have significant adverse impacts upon the marine environment. | ||
| C. Integrate protection of the marine environment into relevant general environmental, social and economic development policies. | ||
| D. Develop economic incentives, where appropriate, to apply clean technologies and other means consistent with the internalization of environmental costs, such as the polluter pays principle, so as to avoid degradation of the marine environment. | ||
| E. Improve the living standards of coastal populations, particularly in developing countries, so as to contribute to reducing the degradation of the coastal and marine environment. | ||
| F. Effective monitoring and surveillance within the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of fish harvesting and transportation of toxic and other hazardous materials. |
TABLE III. SEWAGE RELATED ISSUES
| A. Sewage related problems are considered when formulating or reviewing coastal development plans, including human development plans. | ||
| B. Sewage treatment facilities are built in accordance with national policies. | ||
| C. Coastal outfalls are located so as to maintain acceptable level of environmental quality and to avoid exposing shell fisheries, water intakes and bathing areas to pathogens. | ||
| D. The Government promotes primary treatment of municipal sewage discharged to rivers, estuaries and the sea, or other solutions appropriate to specific sites. | ||
| E. The Government supports the establishment and improvement of local, national, subregional and regional, as necessary, regulatory and monitoring programmes to control effluent discharge. Minimum sewage effluent guidelines and water quality criteria are in use. |
TABLE IV. OTHER SOURCES OF MARINE POLLUTION, THE GOVERNMENT HAS:
| A. Established or improved upon, as necessary, regulatory and monitoring programmes to control emissions, including recycling technologies. | ||
| B. Promoted risk and environmental impact assessments to help ensure an acceptable level of environmental quality. | ||
| C. Promoted assessment and cooperation at the regional level, where appropriate, with respect to the input of point source pollutants from the marine environment. | ||
| D. Taken steps to eliminate emissions or discharges of organohalogen compounds from the marine environment. | ||
| E. Taken steps to eliminate/reduce emissions or discharges or other synthetic organic compounds from the marine environment. | ||
| F. Promoted controls over anthropogenic inputs of nitrogen and phosphorous that enter coastal waters where such problems as eutrophication threaten the marine environment or its resources. | ||
| G. Taken steps to develop and implement environmentally sound land-use techniques and practices to reduce run-off to water courses and estuaries which would cause pollution or degradation of the marine environment. | ||
| H. Promoted the use of environmentally less harmful pesticides and fertilizers and alternative methods for pest control, and considered the prohibition of those found to be environmentally unsound. | ||
| I. Adopted new initiatives at national, subregional and regional levels for controlling the input of non-point source pollutants which require broad changes in sewage and waste management, agricultural practices, mining, construction and transportation. | ||
| J. Taken steps to control and prevent coastal erosion and siltation due to anthropogenic factors related to, inter alia, land-use and construction techniques and practices. |
TABLE V. ADDRESSING CRITICAL UNCERTAINTIES FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE. IN ORDER TO IMPLEMENT THIS PROGRAMME AREA THE GOVERNMENT IS CARRYING OUT THE FOLLOWING ACTIVITIES:
| A. Coordinating national and regional observation programmes for coastal and near-shore phenomena related to climate change and for research parameters essential for marine and coastal management in all regions. | ||
| B. Providing improved forecasts of marine conditions for the safety of inhabitants of coastal areas and for the efficiency of marine operations. | ||
| C. Adopting special measures to cope with and adapt to potential climate change and sea-level rise. | ||
| D. Participating in coastal vulnerability assessment, modelling and response strategies particularly for priority areas, such as small islands and low-lying and critical coastal areas. | ||
| E. Identifying ongoing and planned programmes of systematic observation of the marine environment, with a view to integrating activities and establishing priorities to address critical uncertainties for oceans and all seas. | ||
| F. Research to determine the marine biological effects of increased levels of ultraviolet rays due to the depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer. | ||
| G. Carrying out analysis, assessments and systematic observation of the role of oceans as a carbon sink. |
TABLE VI. RATING OF ACTIVITIES IN THE AIR AND MARITIME TRANSPORT SECTORS IN THE SMALL ISLANDS DEVELOPING STATES (SIDS)
| 1. Frequency (external flights) | 1. Frequency (external shipping) | ||
| 2. Frequency (in-country flights) | 2. Frequency (in-country shipping) | ||
| 3. Cooperation at regional level in air transport and civil aviation | 3. Cooperation at regional level in shipping | ||
| 4. Cooperation at international level | 4. Cooperation at international level | ||
| 5. Economic viability of national air line | 5. Economic viability of national shipping line(s) | ||
| 6. Economic viability of regional air line | 6. Economic viability of regional shipping line (s) | ||
| 7. national level training in skills for air transport sector | 7. National level training in skills for maritime transport sector | ||
| 8. Access to training in skills for air transport sector within the region | 8. Regional level training in skills for maritime transport sector | ||
| 9. Access to international training for air transport sector | 9. Access to international training for maritime transport sector | ||
| 10. Supportive of ICAO |
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 18: PROTECTION OF THE
QUALITY AND SUPPLY OF FRESHWATER RESOURCES:
APPLICATION OF INTEGRATED APPROACHES TO THE DEVELOPMENT,
MANAGEMENT AND USE OF WATER RESOURCES
99.8% of the population has access to safe water resources, and
99.1% has access to sanitation services.
As regards the supply and management of fresh water resources, the
issue should be addressed to the Water Resources
Unit of the Ministry of Energy.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: Central Water Authority.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Central Water
Authority.
3. Major Groups: Central Water Authority.
4. Finance: Central Water Authority.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information
| Latest 199- | ||||
| Fresh water availability (total domestic/external in million m3) | ||||
| Annual withdrawal of freshwater as % of available water | ||||
| Other data
| ||||
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 19: ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND
MANAGEMENT OF TOXIC CHEMICALS, INCLUDING
PREVENTION OF ILLEGAL INTERNATIONAL TRAFFIC IN TOXIC AND DANGEROUS
PRODUCTS
Mauritius has taken steps to follow the recommendations of chapter
19 of Agenda 21. The government has actively
participated in the implementation of "The Prior Informed Consent"
procedure (PIC) of the Amended London Guidelines.
Most of the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) have been
banned.
The government has prepared comprehensive legislation for the
control of hazardous substances with a view to protect
human health and the environment.
NATIONAL PRIORITY: The protection of Human Health
and the Environment.
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: No information
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information
3. Major Groups: No information
4. Finance: No information
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information
|
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 20: ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND
MANAGEMENT OF HAZARDOUS WASTES,
INCLUDING PREVENTION OF ILLEGAL INTERNATIONAL TRAFFIC IN HAZARDOUS
WASTES
The Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements
of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal
The Basel Convention was signed and ratified in 1992.
The latest information was provided to the Basel Convention
Secretariat in 1995.
Additional comments relevant to this chapter
Mauritius is presently constructing a landfill with a provision for
cells for accommodating hazardous wastes. These cells
will have a composite liner. Emphasis will be laid on development
of environmentally sound management of hazardous
wastes.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: The Department of Environment
(DOE) is presently drafting regulations aiming at
defining hazardous waste, minimizing its generation, banning
importation and controlling exportation of such wastes as
well.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: There is a long
term plan to train the staff of the Department of State and
other agencies.
3. Major Groups: No information
4. Finance: No information
5. Regional/International Cooperation: Mauritius has
ratified the Basel and Bamako Conventions aimed at controlling
the movement of hazardous wastes.
| Generation of hazardous waste (t) | ||||
| Import of hazardous wastes (t) | ||||
| Export of hazardous wastes (t) | ||||
| Area of land contaminated by hazardous waste (km2) | ||||
| Expenditure on hazardous waste treatment (US$) | ||||
| Other data
| ||||
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 21: ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND
MANAGEMENT OF SOLID WASTES AND SEWAGE-RELATED ISSUES
This status report focuses primarily on the Waste Water Sector in
Mauritius.
During the past five years (1992-1996) considerable effort has been
exerted to promote the waste sector by setting up
programmes aiming to avail sustainable and environmentally sound
facilities of sewage systems. In this context, the
following can be noted:
In 1992, under the National Environmental Investment Programme, the
Government of Mauritius (GOM) launched a
Sewage Master Plan Study with the objective of identifying
programmes to provide a long term solution for the safe
disposal of human and industrial waste. The Master Plan was
completed in 1991 and, since 1994, the Government of
Mauritius has been organizing, since 1994, the financing of the
following projects:
- The Sewage Master Plan Urgent Works for the construction and
rehabilitation of sewage works at the two urban areas of
Port Louis and Plains Wilhems.
- Immediate improvement of sewage treatment works of St Martin for
Whilhems area.
- Construction of sewage facilities for a tourist resource area in
Grad Baie.
- Construction of sewage facilities for the Northern area of Port
Louis (Baie du Tombeau Project).
- Construction of a new treatment plant at St. Martin (phase
II).
- Preparation of studies for the implementation of sewage
facilities for Port Louis South (Montagne Jacquot Project).
Measures are also being taken for the institutional strengthening
of the Waste Water Authority, to ensure the efficient
operation and financial management of the sewage sector.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: The Waste Water Authority.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information
3. Major Groups: No information
4. Finance: No information
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information
| Generation of industrial and municipal waste (t) | ||||
| Waste disposed(Kg/capita) | ||||
| Expenditure on waste collection and treatment (US$) | ||||
| Waste recycling rates (%) | ||||
| Municipal waste disposal (Kg/capita) | ||||
| Waste reduction rates per unit of GDP (t/year) | ||||
| Other data: NA - Data not available | ||||
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 22: SAFE AND
ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND MANAGEMENT OF RADIOACTIVE WASTES
(1) The following institutions use radioactive materials:
(a) Ministry of Health
(b) Ministry of Agriculture
(c) Textile Industry
(d) Industrial Radiography (private sector)
(2) The Ministry of Health is the only institution where there is
radioactive waste. Such waste is disposed of in the
following manner:
(a) Short lived I131 and I125. These are kept until they have
decayed sufficiently and then are flushed down the drain.
(b) Cobalt 60 sources for Radiotherapy. Used sources are returned
to the manufacturer or the Atomic Energy Agency of
South Africa.
(c) There are 49 needles and 29 tubes contaminating Ra 226. They
are being kept in a special room, in a safe place.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: The Radiation Protection
Board and the Physics Department of the Ministry of Health.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Waste room is about
3m x 3m and isolated from other buildings.
3. Major Groups: No information
4. Finance: No information
5. Regional/International Cooperation: The Ministry of
Health is cooperating with the International Atomic Energy
Agency for the management and disposal of radioactive waste.
|
| Ch. 24: GLOBAL ACTION FOR WOMEN TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE AND
EQUITABLE DEVELOPMENT.
The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women was signed on July 9, 1984.
24.a Increasing the proportion of women decision makers. The number of women working in the government increased from 24%, in 1992, to 27% in 1996. At the local government level, the percentage remained at 1.4%. The number of women working in parliament increased from 3.3%, in 1992, to 9.7% in 1996.
24.b assessing, reviewing, revising and implementing curricula and other educational material with a view to promoting dissemination of gender-relevant knowledge. The curricula and educational material are being revised.
24.c and 24.d formulating and implementing policies, guidelines, strategies and plans for achievement of equality in all aspects of society including issuing a strategy by year 2000 to eliminate obstacles to full participation of women in sustainable development. Policies/strategies have been drawn up and completed.
24.e establishing mechanisms by 1995 to assess implementation and impact of development and environment policies and programmes on women. These mechanisms are in place.
Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):
Women have been in the forefront of environmental advocacy and consciousness raising in environmental movements in Mauritius. Such public action is a reflection of a development perspective that seeks to integrate both social and environmental concerns.
Actions for the future, as spelled out in the White Paper on Women in Development, include the following:
- Increase environmental education of women, awareness of the link between diet, health, and environment, including consumer awareness of food additives, pesticide residues, and environment hazards associated with particular technologies.
- Ensure that stategies for the sustainable use of natural resources are gender-sensitive, and provide training for women as natural resources managers.
- Enhance women's capacity to be responsible stakeholders of the environment.
- Ensure that capacity building-programmes in environmental management target women as well as men.
| |
| Ch. 25: CHILDREN AND YOUTH IN SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT. 25.a establishing processes that promote dialogue between the youth and government at all levels and mechanisms that permit youth access to information and opportunity to present their views on implementing A21.
Describe their role in the national process: 25.b reducing youth unemployment
25.c ensuring that by year 2000 more than 50% of youth -- gender balanced -- have access to appropriate secondary education or vocational training.
Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):
| |
| Ch. 26: RECOGNIZING AND STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF
INDIGENOUS PEOPLE AND THEIR
COMMUNITIES.
26.a establishing a process to empower indigenous people and their communities -- through policies and legal instruments:
26.b strengthening arrangements for active participation in national policies
26.c involving indigenous people in resource management strategies and programmes at the national and local level.
Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):
| |
| Ch. 27: STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS: PARTNERS FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT. 27.a developing mechanisms that allow NGOs to play their partnership role responsibly and effectively. 27.b reviewing formal procedures and mechanisms to involve NGOs in decision making and implementation. 27.c promoting and allowing NGOs to participate in the conception, establishment and evaluation of official mechanisms to review Agenda 21 implementation.
27.d establishing a mutually productive dialogue by 1995 at the national level between NGOs and governments.
Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):
| |
| Ch. 28: LOCAL AUTHORITIES' INITIATIVES IN SUPPORT OF
AGENDA 21.
28.a encouraging local authorities to implement and monitor programmes that aim to ensure participation of women and youth in local decision making.
Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):
| |
| Ch. 29: STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF WORKERS AND
THEIR TRADE UNIONS. 29.a full participation of workers in implementation and evaluation of A21. 29.b (By year 2000, (a) promoting ratification of ILO conventions; (b) establishing bipartite and tripartite mechanism on safety, health and sustainable development; (c) increasing number of environmental collective agreements; (d) reducing occupational accidents and injuries; (e) increasing workers' education and training efforts.
Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):
| |
| 30: STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF BUSINESS
AND INDUSTRY. | 30.a increasing the efficiency of resource use, including reuse, recycling, and reduction of waste per unit of economic output.
30.b encouraging the concept of stewardship in management and use of natural resources by entrepreneurs.
List any actions taken in this area:
Two enterprises have been given incentives for these activities.
30.c increasing number of enterprises that subscribe to and implement sustainable development policies.
Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):
The term "sustainable development" has become widespread among the business community; however, to reconcile the conflicting ends of rising costs and environmental protection, enterprises are adopting hesitating attitudes.
| ||
| Ch. 31: SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL
COMMUNITY. 31.a improving exchange of knowledge and concerns between s&t community and the general public. Scientific community has already established ways in which to address the general public and deal with sustainable development.
31.b developing, improving and promoting international acceptance of codes of practice and guidelines related to science and technology and its role in reconciling environment and development.
Brief comments on this chapter not already described in chapter 35 (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):
| |
| Ch. 32: STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF
FARMERS. 32.a promoting and encouraging sustainable farming practices and technologies.
32.b developing a policy framework that provides incentives and motivation among farmers for sustainable and efficient farming practices.
32.c enhancing participation of organizations of farmers in design and implementation of sustainable development policies.
Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):
| |
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 33: FINANCIAL RESOURCES
AND MECHANISMS
Financial resources and mechanisms are also covered under each
sectoral chapter of Agenda 21 where
relevant. This summary highlights broader national financial
policies, domestic and external
(including ODA)
2. NEW ECONOMIC INSTRUMENTS: 1996/97 Budget
(a) Introduction of a green tax on disposable plastic
products.
(b) Proceeds of a green tax to be credited to the National
Environment Fund for encouraging local environmental
initiatives and carrying out programmes to prevent and reduce
pollution.
(c) Setting up a committee on Environmental Taxation to
explore the possibilities for using the fiscal instrument
on an extensive basis in the battle against environmental
degradation.
ELIMINATION OF ENVIRONMENTALLY UNFRIENDLY SUBSIDIES:
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. CHANGES IN NATIONAL BUDGET TO ADDRESS
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT:
Sewage
Ministry of
Environment
| ODA policy issues
No information
|
| ODA funding provided or received (Total US$million) | Nil | |||||
| Net flow of external capital from all sources (Rs m) |
|
|
| |||
| as % of GDP | ||||||
| Other data * mainly due to the import of aircrafts. ** mainly due to the issue of floating rates (US$ 150) in October 1995. | ||||||
| NATIONAL PRIORITY: | |
| STATUS REPORT ON LINKS BETWEEN NATIONAL, REGIONAL
AND INTERNATIONAL INFORMATION
NETWORKS/SYSTEMS:
Mauritius is well informed on all the developments taking place in the international forum for environmental protection. UNEP is the international organization which provides Mauritius information on all environmental issues. Given the specificity of the Island, its size, population, and its fragile ecosystems, the adoption of environmentally sound technology is being done meticulously. Regional cooperation in environmental technology exists but on a very limited scale.
MEANS OF IMPLEMENTATION: The transfer of environmentally sound technology is being done through information retrieval. Before proceeding with its acquisition, information is requested by potential importers.
|
| Describe any work being undertaken at the national or
local level regarding efforts to promote clean production
processes and/or the concepts of eco-efficiency. These processes
may include training, preferential financial
arrangements, information dissemination and changes in legal or
regulatory frameworks.
The government has already formulated policies to this effect. New environmental laws are being created, old ones are being updated, and new institutional support such as the Department of Environment, specialized laboratories, and fiscal incentives regarding the modernization of equipment, have been granted.
Provide information on the adoption of environmental management systems. National reaction to environmental management system standards such as the ISO 14000 Series and others. Please note efforts made at the national level to promote their adoption and the creation of certification infrastructure in order to facilitate access to these standards to local industry.
The ISO 14,000 is a must for Mauritian products to get the Eco-labeling to have access to European markets. Association of industrialists such as MEPZA are already raising awareness of quality issues among the business community.
List and describe programs or work under way to facilitate the transfer of ESTs to small and medium sized enterprises. Please note efforts to facilitate access to financial resources and other transfer strategies.
The Environment Investment Programme (EIP) provides most of the infrastructure to help implement sustainable development. The Department of Environment acts as a liaison with other organizations dealing with environmental issues. The Technology Diffusion Scheme (TDS), at the Ministry of Industry, helps firms acquire the capacity to improve their production through better technology.
|
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 35: SCIENCE FOR
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
No information
STEPS TAKEN TO ENHANCE SCIENTIFIC UNDERSTANDING, IMPROVE LONG
TERM SCIENTIFIC
ASSESSMENT, BUILDING OF CAPACITY AND CAPABILITY:
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT ON NATIONAL SCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE,
RESEARCH NEEDS AND PRIORITIES:
| Year | |||
| Number of scientists, engineers and technicians engaged in research and experimental development | # | 19-- | |
| Total expenditure for research and experimental development (US$eq.) | $ | 19-- | |
| Other data
| |||
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 36: PROMOTING EDUCATION,
PUBLIC AWARENESS AND TRAINING
One of the guiding principles of our National Environmental Policy
concerns environmental education and awareness. The
government of Mauritius provides an environmental education
programme aimed at raising awareness of the nature of
pollution problems, and increase commitment and motivation to
finding solutions.
a) Reorientation of education towards sustainable
development
(i) Environmental Studies already exist as a subject in primary
schools.
(ii) Various projects and competitions, concerning environmental
protection, were launched in schools.
b) Increasing public awareness
Various programmes, including discussions, projection of video
films, and distribution of pamphlets are being carried out.
c) Promoting training
Talks are being held in schools, and workshops and seminars are
being held for NGOs.
ROLE OF MAJOR GROUPS:
Several NGOs assist in raising awareness of environmental issues
among the public.
FINANCING AND COST EVALUATION OF THE LABOUR ACTIVITIES:
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
| Adult literacy rate (%) Male | ||||
| Adult literacy rate (%) Female | ||||
| % of primary school children reaching grade 5 (1986-97) | ||||
| Mean number of years of schooling | ||||
| % of GNP spent on education | ||||
| Females per 100 males in secondary school | ||||
| Women per 100 men in the labour force | ||||
| Other data
| ||||
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 37: NATIONAL MECHANISMS
AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION FOR CAPACITY-BUILDING IN DEVELOPING
COUNTRIES
National capacity building is also covered under sectoral
chapters.
Donors: You may wish to describe here how Agenda 21 has
influenced your ODA policies in this area.
Developing countries: You may wish to describe any new
national mechanisms for capacity building - and any changes
in technical cooperation.
Refer to the discussion of activities in all previous chapters.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT ON NATIONAL ENDOGENOUS CAPACITY
BUILDING:
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 38: INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTIONAL
ARRANGEMENTS
| Ch. 38: Brief summary of any particular UN System
response affecting this country/state:
|
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 39: INTERNATIONAL LEGAL
INSTRUMENTS AND MECHANISMS
| Ch. 39: International Legal Instruments are covered
under the relevant sectoral chapters. This is a listing of major
agreements/conventions (not already covered) entered into and
relevant to Agenda 21:
|
| 2. | International cooperation and trade | |||||
| 3. | Combating poverty | |||||
| 4. | Changing consumption patterns | |||||
| 5. | Demographic dynamics and sustainability | |||||
| 6. | Human health | |||||
| 7. | Human settlements | |||||
| 8. | Integrating E & D in decision-making | |||||
| 9. | Protection of the atmosphere | |||||
| 10. | Integrated planning and management of land resources | |||||
| 11. | Combating deforestation | |||||
| 12. | Combating desertification and drought | |||||
| 13. | Sustainable mountain development | |||||
| 14. | Sustainable agriculture and rural development | |||||
| 15. | Conservation of biological diversity | |||||
| 16. | Biotechnology | |||||
| 17. | Oceans, seas, coastal areas and their living resources | |||||
| 18. | Freshwater resources | |||||
| 19. | Toxic chemicals | |||||
| 20. | Hazardous wastes | |||||
| 21. | Solid wastes | |||||
| 22. | Radioactive wastes | |||||
| 24. | Women in sustainable development | |||||
| 25. | Children and youth | |||||
| 26. | Indigenous people | |||||
| 27. | Non-governmental organizations | |||||
| 28. | Local authorities | |||||
| 29. | Workers and trade unions | |||||
| 30. | Business and industry | |||||
| 31. | Scientific and technological community | |||||
| 32. | Farmers | |||||
| 33. | Financial resources and mechanisms | |||||
| 34. | Technology, cooperation and capacity-building | |||||
| 35. | Science for sustainable development | |||||
| 36. | Education, public awareness and training | |||||
| 37. | International cooperation for capacity-building | |||||
| 38. | International institutional arrangements | |||||
| 39. | International legal instruments | |||||
| 40. | Information for decision-making | |||||
| Latest 199- | ||||
| Number of telephones in use per 100 inhabitants | ||||
| Other data
| ||||
Copyright © United Nations
Department of Economic and Social Affairs
Comments and suggestions: esa@un.org
Last updated 1 November 1997