UNEP 18th Consultative Meeting with Industry Associations was held in Paris, France from 4-5 October 2001.

Representatives from about 50 industry associations from around the world and non-industry civil society groups and NGOs met to discuss business and industry’s role in contributing to the WSSD preparatory process. Participants were first briefed on progress made at a previous workshop where industry representatives and stakeholders had met to discuss draft sector reports for the Summit. Presentations were then heard on preparations for the Summit by representatives of UNEP’s Division of Technology, Industry and Economics, the World Business Council on Sustainable Development and Greenpeace. Over the two days, participants met in four sessions that considered the following topics: Agenda 21 and the WSSD – the contribution of business and industry; cleaner production and reduced material intensities; trends that shape the market place; and corporate citizenship and accountability. Discussions highlighted the need for partnerships and greater involvement of business and industry from the developing world and several speakers advocated a more pro-active approach on the part of industry in addressing the issue of sustainable development. More information on this meeting is available online at: http://www.uneptie.org/outreach/business/ind_meeting2001.htm