UNECE Decision II/3: Electronic information tools and the clearing-house mechanism

Summary

The Meeting of the Parties, held in Almaty in May 2005, adopted a set of recommendations to enhance public access to environmental information through electronic tools, as mandated by the Aarhus Convention. These recommendations emphasize the importance of transparent and accessible environmental information and the use of electronic databases and ICT. The recommendations encourage the development of national “e-government” strategies, the removal of barriers to Internet access, and the promotion of public participation in environmental decision-making through electronic means.

Parties are urged to make environmental information progressively available online, including reports, legislation, and environmental impact assessments. The recommendations also stress the need for institutional capacity-building, the establishment of environmental information centers, and the development of user-friendly formats for data. The creation and maintenance of national nodes linked to the UNECE Aarhus Clearinghouse are also encouraged, along with training for public officials. These efforts aim to bridge the digital divide and improve public engagement in environmental governance.