6 - Evolution of IEAs

Abstract

This chapter examines the evolution of IEAs over the decades, looking at general trends as well as some core principles and concepts. This chapter discusses how early IEAs tended to be simple in terms of requirements, vague in terms of objectives, and reflecting a dominant utilitarian perspective. Over the decades, IEAs have evolved to recognize new ecological principles, and to adopt a strategic management perspective. This chapter then analyzes some anchored principles of IEAs, as well as some emerging elements. Anchored principles discussed include sustainable development, the common-but-differentiated principle (CBDR), the precautionary principle (PP), the role of NGOs; duty to inform; environmental impact assessment (EIA); environmental liability; elaborate institutional structure and supplementary agreements; and national sovereignty. Emerging elements discussed relate to strategic management, and clean energy/clean technology.