Amid the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, there is a growing demand for transparent environmental governance. This includes access to reliable information and efforts to combat disinformation and greenwashing.
To address these issues, the Task Force on Access to Information under the Aarhus Convention held its ninth meeting in Geneva on 7-8 November 2024. Participants included representatives from governments, civil society, academia, international organizations, and other stakeholders. Discussions focused on the dissemination of environmental information through electronic tools, access to environment-related product information, transparency of public authorities, and whistle-blower protection.
The meeting discussed the implementation of the Updated recommendations on the more effective use of electronic information tools and the use of modern technologies for collecting and exchanging environmental data. Experiences were shared on the development of the Global Environmental Data Strategy and electronic information tools in various countries and organizations. Non-governmental organizations also presented their observations on the use of electronic tools to disseminate environmental data and information. The importance of public participation, user feedback, and new technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain were highlighted in the modernization and development of digital environmental information systems.
The meeting also addressed legislative and practical measures to combat greenwashing, ensure reliable data on environmental footprints, and promote sustainable consumption. Experiences were shared from various organizations and initiatives, including the European Commission, UNCTAD, and the private sector. Progress on developing international recommendations and standards for transparency and digital product passports were also presented. The Task Force emphasized the need for alignment with Aarhus Convention requirements.
The importance of promoting digitalization and public access to environmental data was discussed, along with concerns about delays and refusals due to lack of resources. The meeting also recognized the role of journalists and whistle-blowers in reporting environmental violations and called for the establishment of effective legal protections and safeguards for them.
The meeting’s outcomes are expected to contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals 16 and 12, particularly target 16.10 on public access to information and protecting fundamental freedoms. Experiences in implementing and monitoring progress towards this target were also shared at the meeting.
For more information, visit the Task Force on Access to Information under the Aarhus Convention’s website and the Aarhus Clearinghouse website.