DUSHANBE, July 10, 2009, Asia-Plus — A four-day seminar on Environmental Integration organized by the European Commission is closing in Almaty, Kazakhstan today.
According to press release issued the Delegation of the European Commission in Tajikistan, the regional event was held to discuss the best ways to support environmental mainstreaming in all aspects of EU development cooperation.
The seminar brought together the staff of EC Delegations and close national partners from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Afghanistan. From July 6 to July 9, the participants thoroughly discussed the prospects for environmental integration in the region and shared their ideas and concerns in relation to EU programs in this field. The European Union is a major contributor of inter
The European Union is a major contributor of international aid, including in an environmental dimension. The EU external aid programs address various concerns such as forestry, desertification, protected areas, climate change, water and waste management.
During the sessions, the participants have been trained to identify and avoid potential harmful impacts of strategies and programs, and to recognize opportunities for enhancing environmental conditions. Among the practical tools presented to the experts, were the Environmental Impact Assessments and Strategic Environmental Assessments. These tools are designed to foresee potential negative impacts of projects on environment and to identify mitigation actions, thereby bringing additional benefits to development and economic activities.
The seminar was the first of its type delivered to Central Asia partners and is a part of global program of training on Environmental Integration. By providing forums for discussion and practical training the European Commission aims at enhancing good environmental management practices and supporting balanced economic development and environmental sustainability.
