Green economy and trade trends, challenges and opportunities

By addressing the critical nexus between a green economy and international trade, this report responds to the calls made by world leaders at Rio+20 for supporting the transition to a green economy that contributes to poverty eradication and sustainable development. Acknowledging international trade as an engine for development and sustained economic growth, this report provides an overview and examples on how the transition to a greener economy can create sustainable trade opportunities for developing countries. It also points to the main challenges related to the realisation of these opportunities and sets out enabling conditions for trade to contribute to environmental objectives while advancing economic and social development.