8 November 2014: The UN Environment Programme’s (UNEP) International Resource Panel (IRP) selected Janez Potočnik, the former European Union (EU) Commissioner for the Environment, as the new IRP Co-Chair, at its 15th meeting. The Panel also identified future areas of research, including: poverty eradication and natural resources governance; restoration and resilience of land biodiversity and ecosystem services; and circular economy and innovation.

UNEP Executive Director Achim Steiner welcomed Potočnik’s appointment. He highlighted Potočnik’s achievements as the European Commissioner, saying he “focused on policies that contributed to preserving natural heritage while promoting growth opportunities, and succeeded in keeping the environment high on the political agenda.” Potočnik succeeds Ernst Ulrich von Weizsäcker.

UNEP launched the IRP in 2007 to help move society from over-consumption, waste and ecological harm towards a prosperous, sustainable future. The Panel produces reports, provides advice and connects policymakers, industry and communities on issues of global and local resource management.

The 15th IRP meeting sought to: review the progress in IRP assessment reports; examine new study proposals; discuss the strategic direction of the Panel; and discuss options to enhance outreach to national and regional-level experts and stakeholders and to expand the Panel’s expert base. The IRP’s 15th meeting convened in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, from 3-7 November 2014. [UNEP Press Release] [IRP Website]