INTER-SESSIONAL AD HOC WORKING GROUP
ON CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION PATTERNS
STATEMENT BY HE TUILOMA NERONI SLADE ON BEHALF OF THE ALLIANCE OF SMALL ISLAND STATES (AOSIS)
New York, 22 February 1999
CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION PATTERNS

Mr. Chairman,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS). I want to say, first of all, that we associate ourselves fully with the important statement given earlier by the representative of Guyana on behalf of the G-77 and China. My purpose is briefly to add some observations relating to the particular concerns of small island developing States (SIDS).

Like many other countries, SIDS are increasingly being affected by global consumption patterns. It is no doubt inevitable that this be so. However, the particular vulnerabilities of SIDS often magnify or exacerbate the problem. Nowhere is this more apparent than in respect to the consumption of fossil fuels. The decline in world fuel prices is feeding a startling increase in the global reliance on fossil fuels. The impact is both immediate and long lasting. The consumption of fossil fuels has been identified as the chief culprit in large increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations. Many of these emissions will remain in the atmosphere for decades, profoundly affecting the world’s climate. SIDS are particularly vulnerable to these changes. Rising sea levels and changing weather patterns are but some of the more serious effects on our communities.To meet this challenge, concrete action must be taken. SIDS, like so many other countries represented in this room, are working to this end within the framework of the Climate Change Convention. Consumption patterns for fossil fuels, particularly in the developed world must, in our view, be changed. Current levels of consumption, which in fact are increasing, cannot be sustained. In addition, the transfer of cleaner technologies to developing countries more than ever has become a matter of top priority. We must work together to avoid the mistakes of the past and build a better future.Globalisation, fuelled by unrestrained consumption patterns in the industrialised world, has also exposed the fragility of small island states. The decrease in preferential trade treatment has hit many SIDS hard, at a time when they can ill afford the economic and social dislocation these changes produce. Cheaper consumer goods, many of which actually contribute to pollution, distort the balance of trade usually in a negative way. The answers to these problems are not easy. However, it is important that they be recognised and that the particular vulnerability of SIDS also be taken into account in developing long term solutions.

The marine environment, and fisheries in particular, is another critical area for our group of countries. Fisheries as a vital economic sector needs adequate protection and regulation in order to secure longer term sustainability. Coastal aqua-culture needs better management to avoid water pollution and Eco-system damage. It is essential, moreover, to formulate and put into place best practices in order to safeguard not only coastal fisheries, but also corner-stone industries such as tourism which are vital to the economies and well-being of all SIDS.

Thank you.