Environment and Security: Transforming risks into cooperation

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Environment and Security

Possible actions under the Environment and Security Initiative Conclusions

Analysis of the interaction between the en- vironment and security factors presented in this report suggests that their background and scale in the eastern Caspian region dif- fer a great deal from the “classic” models of the Ferghana valley, southern Caucasus and the Balkans. The ecological problems and socio-economic trends that may result in grievances and conflicts are concealed by low population density and development of the region’s hydrocarbon reserves. Other problems are being addressed by the Tehran Convention, and by local and national gov- ernment under the Caspian Environmental Programme or other specific initiatives. Some issues, such as the transboundary management of the waters of the Atrek river (Iran-Turkmenistan) are currently beyond the scope of the ENVSEC Initiative. Assessment and mapping of environmental sensitivity and risks in the northern Caspian Sea in view of energy development and climate change Supporting good practices in remediation of historical pollution and promoting cleaner production technolo- gies in the energy sector Increasing transparency and accessibility of environ- mental information to the general public (including Cas- pian Aarhus centres) Priority areas

Based on the present analytical report and consultations with the experts and gov- ernments of the countries concerned, the ENVSEC Initiative has defined the scope for implementation of further activities. The ENVSEC work programme for the eastern Caspian Sea region complements and ex- tends the measures being implemented by the countries and the Caspian Environment Programme. In the matrix below we present the outlook for possible follow-up actions developed by the various national, local and international stakeholders taking part in the consultations held as part of the report’s production. Recognizing the achievements of the Caspian Environmental Programme and national actors, the present report fo- cuses on the areas that are not yet covered in the current or planned initiatives.

Assess- ment

Capacity building

Policy for- mulation

Risk re- duction

Enhancing national policies in environmental security and industrial safety in the Caspian region

Confidence-building measures and demonstration inter- ventions in managing transboundary water resources

Integrated coastal zone management to protect the Caspian region ecosystems and livelihoods of people

Actual activities will take place at the request of the host countries given enough financial resources are raised and following the mandates of the ENVSEC partners.