How do Sustainability Assessments address environmental issues?
Answer… Sustainability Assessments (SAs) aim to address environmental issues by examining how trade policies impact the environment. SAs can flag potential environmental harm and suggest ways for sustainable development. SAs can also be used to demonstrate how trade policies can be reformed to prevent environmental degradation. SAs provide the right information and tools to policy makers and other stakeholders to help them understand the adverse implications of trade policy, and thus eliminate harmful subsidies or curtail unsustainable farming practices. For example, if trade liberalisation is likely to increase deforestation, then trade policies should only be implemented if there is adequate infrastructure, practices and regulations to ensure protection and conservation of the natural environment.
